Kore
Kore, a Levite in charge of distributing freewill offerings during Hezekiah's reign (2Ch.31.14).
Biography
Kore son of Imnah was a Levite appointed by King Hezekiah to oversee the distribution of freewill offerings, firstfruits, and tithes brought by the people of Judah during the great religious revival of Hezekiah's reign (2 Chronicles 31:14). He served as the keeper of the East Gate and was responsible for ensuring that the contributions of the people were equitably distributed to the priests and Levites in their divisions throughout the land. Kore's appointment reflects the extensive administrative reorganization Hezekiah undertook to restore proper provision for those who served at the temple. His role required trustworthiness, organizational ability, and commitment to the integrity of sacred resources during a period of remarkable national spiritual renewal.
Significance
Kore's administrative role during Hezekiah's reformation illustrates an often-overlooked dimension of covenant faithfulness: the faithful stewardship of communal resources dedicated to God. The distribution system Kore oversaw ensured that priests and Levites could devote themselves entirely to their sacred duties, free from material want. This reflects the biblical principle that right worship requires right structures of support and accountability. Kore's faithful administration of offerings also demonstrates that Hezekiah's revival was not merely emotional but systematically organized, a comprehensive reform touching every dimension of Israel's covenant life. His service reminds readers that integrity in handling consecrated resources is itself an act of worship and an expression of fidelity to God.
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]