Definition: And with them [he sent] Levites, [even] Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah, and Asahel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehonathan, and Adonijah, and Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, priests.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 17:8. It's a fascinating passage about a powerful religious gathering! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a large group of people – priests, Levites, and officials – being sent out to carry out a very important task. Let’s unpack the names: Levites: These were priests who served God and were considered highly respected members of the community. Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, Tobadonijah: These are all significant names from the Old Testament books of Samuel and Kings. They were important leaders and figures in the time when this verse was written. Think of them as key people who played vital roles in the events that follow. Elishama & Jehoram: These are specific priests, likely involved in a crucial ritual or offering. “Elishama” means “to reveal,” so they were responsible for revealing something significant. "Jehoram" is a particular title. What was they doing? The verse says they were sent out to carry out a special task . It’s not explicitly stated what the task was, but it's understood that it involved: A Ritual Offering: This is the most likely interpretation. The Levites and priests were being dispatched to perform a religious ritual or offering to God – possibly related to a specific event or sacrifice. Protecting the Kingdom: The whole group was sent to protect the kingdom of Judah, ensuring its stability and well-being. 2 Chronicles is about conflict, so this suggests a time of crisis or danger. In short, it’s a strategic move – a team of trusted officials being sent out to fulfill a significant religious duty. Important Note: The Bible sometimes uses symbolic language. This verse isn't necessarily a literal record of every single event, but rather a description of a planned and carefully organized effort. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss the significance of these figures mentioned? Compare this event to other stories in the Bible?