Eden
Eden, along with other Levites, was appointed by Hezekiah to distribute the contributions, tithes, and dedicated gifts to his brethren in their cities. (2Ch.31.15)
Biography
This Eden was a Levite appointed by King Hezekiah of Judah to serve in the administration of the sacred contributions, tithes, and dedicated gifts that flowed into Jerusalem following the great religious revival described in 2 Chronicles 31. As the reform progressed and the people responded with remarkable generosity, bringing firstfruits of grain, wine, oil, honey, and all the produce of the field, Hezekiah established a distribution system to ensure that the resources reached the Levites in their cities throughout Judah. Eden is named in 2 Chronicles 31:15 as one of several trusted Levites stationed under Kore son of Imnah to faithfully distribute the temple income to their fellow priests and Levites.
Significance
Eden's appointment as a steward of sacred contributions reflects the practical necessities of sustaining a functioning priestly community. The distribution system Hezekiah established, in which Eden participated, ensured that Levites throughout Judah received their due portion, enabling them to devote themselves fully to the LORD's service without material anxiety. This administrative role carried genuine spiritual weight: proper distribution of tithes was itself an act of covenant faithfulness, ensuring that the worship infrastructure of Israel was sustained. Eden's faithfulness in this administrative task exemplifies the truth that stewardship of material resources in God's service is as sacred as liturgical or sacrificial duties.
Verse Appearances (1)
2Chr
References
- Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
- Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
- Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
- Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]
