Topical Encyclopedia Cononiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the reforms and religious activities during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. His name, which can be translated as "Jehovah has established," reflects the theocentric nature of Hebrew names, often signifying a relationship or attribute of God.Biblical References: Cononiah is primarily mentioned in 2 Chronicles 31:12-13. The passage describes the reforms initiated by King Hezekiah, who sought to restore proper worship and adherence to the laws of God after a period of neglect and idolatry in Judah. The text states: "And they faithfully brought in the contributions, tithes, and consecrated gifts. Conaniah the Levite was the officer in charge of them, and his brother Shimei was second." (2 Chronicles 31:12) Role and Responsibilities: Cononiah, identified as a Levite, played a significant role in the administration of the temple resources. As the officer in charge, he was responsible for overseeing the collection and distribution of the contributions, tithes, and consecrated gifts brought by the people. This position was crucial for maintaining the temple services and ensuring that the priests and Levites could perform their duties without hindrance. The Levites, as a tribe set apart for religious duties, were integral to the worship and sacrificial system established by the Mosaic Law. Cononiah's leadership in managing the resources reflects the importance of order and accountability in the service of God, as well as the collaborative effort required among the Levites to support the spiritual life of the nation. Historical and Religious Context: The period of Hezekiah's reign was marked by a significant religious revival. Hezekiah, noted for his faithfulness to God, sought to cleanse the temple, restore proper worship, and reinstate the observance of the Passover. The reforms were a response to the apostasy and idolatry that had plagued Judah under previous kings. Cononiah's role in these reforms underscores the collective effort to return to the covenantal faithfulness required by God. Theological Significance: Cononiah's mention, though brief, highlights the importance of faithful stewardship in the service of God. His role as an overseer of the temple contributions illustrates the biblical principle of managing God's resources with integrity and diligence. This stewardship is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing that all resources ultimately belong to God and should be used for His glory and purposes. In the broader narrative of Hezekiah's reforms, Cononiah's service is a testament to the impact of godly leadership and the collective responsibility of the community to uphold the worship and commandments of the Lord. His example serves as a reminder of the vital role that each individual plays in the spiritual health and faithfulness of the community of believers. Smith's Bible Dictionary Cononiah(appointed by the Lord), a Levite, ruler of the offerings and tithes in the time of Hezekiah. (2 Chronicles 31:12,13) (B.C. 726.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CONONIAHkon-o-ni'a. Strong's Hebrew 3562. Konanyahu -- "Yah has sustained," two Levites... Conaniah, Cononiah. From kuwn and Yahh; Jah has sustained; Conanjah, the name of two Israelites -- Conaniah, Cononiah. Compare Knanyah. see HEBREW kuwn. ... /hebrew/3562.htm - 6k Thesaurus Cononiah (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CONONIAH. kon-o-ni'a. See CONANIAH. Multi-Version Concordance Cononiah (2 Occurrences). 2 Chronicles ... /c/cononiah.htm - 7k Connexion (9 Occurrences) Conquer (12 Occurrences) Jismachiah (1 Occurrence) Conaniah (3 Occurrences) Heave-offerings (13 Occurrences) Heave-offering (55 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Cononiah (2 Occurrences)2 Chronicles 31:12 2 Chronicles 31:13 Subtopics Cononiah: Name of Two Israelites Related Terms |