Amariah, Assistant to Kore
A Levite priest during the reign of King Hezekiah who assisted in the distribution of tithes and offerings to fellow priests.
Amariah was a Levite who served during the late 8th century BC during the religious reforms of King Hezekiah of Judah. He is identified as one of the trusted assistants working under Kore, the son of Imnah the Levite, who was the keeper of the East Gate of the temple. Amariah's primary responsibility involved the administrative oversight and distribution of consecrated gifts to his brethren within the various cities of the priests.
His role was central to the logistical success of Hezekiah’s efforts to centralize worship and ensure the proper maintenance of the Aaronic priesthood. Along with five other named assistants, Amariah managed the equitable allocation of portions to priests of all ages and ranks, ensuring the stability of the ecclesiastical system during a period of national spiritual renewal.
Background and Family
The biblical record concerning this specific Amariah is contained within the chronicler’s account of King Hezekiah’s reign (c. 715–686 BC). Following the reopening and cleansing of the Temple in Jerusalem, Hezekiah commanded the people to provide the portion due to the priests and Levites. The resulting influx of tithes, offerings, and firstfruits necessitated a robust administrative structure to handle the abundance of resources. Amariah was selected as a key official within this system. While his specific lineage is not detailed in 2 Chronicles 31 beyond his identification as a Levite, his placement among the assistants to Kore indicates he was a man of high standing and proven integrity within the priestly community.
Major Life Events
The single mention of Amariah in 2 Chronicles 31:15 occurs in the context of the distribution of the "holy things." After the Israelites brought in a massive surplus of grain, new wine, and oil, Hezekiah appointed specific men to oversee the storehouses. Amariah served in the "cities of the priests," likely the traditional Levite settlements scattered throughout Judah.
His duties were precise: he worked under the authority of Kore to faithfully distribute portions to the priests according to their divisions. This was not a random charity but a systematic disbursement based on the priestly rotations established by David and Solomon. Amariah was responsible for ensuring that both the "old and young alike" received their designated support, preventing neglect of the families of those serving in the sanctuary.
Relationship to Other Biblical Figures
Amariah served under Kore, the son of Imnah, who was the official in charge of the freewill offerings of God. He worked alongside five other named colleagues: Eden, Miniamin, Jeshua, Shemaiah, and Shecaniah. Together, these six men formed a specialized administrative committee tasked with the logistical support of the priesthood. This group operated under the broader oversight of Conaniah and his brother Shimei, who were the chief officers appointed by King Hezekiah and Azariah, the chief officer of the house of God.
Spiritual Significance
Though Amariah's biblical footprint is brief, his work signifies the importance of administrative faithfulness in the service of God. The text specifically notes that these men performed their duties "faithfully" (be-emunah). In the biblical narrative, Amariah represents the necessary bridge between the king's decree and the actual sustenance of the clergy. His role ensured that those dedicated to the service of the LORD were not distracted by material lack, thereby facilitating the overall restoration of the Law in Judah. His inclusion in the text highlights that the success of great spiritual revivals often rests on the shoulders of dedicated, though less famous, administrators who manage the practical details of God's house.
Spiritual Significance
Amariah serves as a model of administrative integrity within the Temple service. His specific mention in the records of Hezekiah's reforms underscores the biblical principle that the support of the ministry is a sacred task requiring organized and honest oversight. By ensuring the fair distribution of resources to both the young and the old, Amariah maintained the dignity and sustainability of the priesthood.
Furthermore, his presence in the text reinforces the historical reality of Hezekiah’s centralization of worship. The mention of Amariah working in the 'cities of the priests' confirms that even when the focus of worship was centralized in Jerusalem, the support system for the Levites remained dispersed and meticulously managed across the land of Judah.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Amariah's specific job?
He was an assistant to Kore the Levite, responsible for distributing the consecrated offerings and tithes to the priests living in their various cities.
When did Amariah live?
He lived during the Divided Monarchy, specifically during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah in the late 8th century BC.
Who was Amariah's supervisor?
He worked under the authority of Kore, the son of Imnah, who was the keeper of the East Gate and supervisor of freewill offerings.
Which book of the Bible mentions this Amariah?
He is mentioned exclusively in 2 Chronicles 31:15.
Connected Figures
Hezekiah
King who organized the distribution system
Kore
Direct supervisor and keeper of the East Gate
Shemaiah
Colleague and fellow assistant to Kore
Categories
Mentions by Book
- 2 Chronicles1
Others Named Amariah
Amariah, Son of Hebron1 Chronicles 23:19
A Levite of the clan of Kohath and the second son of Hebron, recorded during the organization of the sanctuary service.
Amariah, Levite of the Divided Monarchy1 Chronicles 6:11
A Levite priest of the high-priestly line during the Divided Monarchy, identified as the son of Azariah and father of Ahitub.
Amariah, Priest of the United Monarchy1 Chronicles 6:7
A Levite priest of the high-priestly line of Eleazar during the United Monarchy, serving as the father of Ahitub and grandfather of Zadok.
Amariah, Returnee in Ezra 10Ezra 10:42
Amariah was a Jewish returnee from the Babylonian exile during the time of Ezra who was identified as one of the men who had married a foreign woman.
Amariah, Ancestor of AthaiahNehemiah 11:4
Amariah was a descendant of Perez and Judah whose lineage produced key leaders who resettled Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile.
Amariah, Chief Priest of Jehoshaphat2 Chronicles 19:11
The high priest under King Jehoshaphat who presided over the supreme court in Jerusalem for all matters pertaining to the LORD.
Amariah, Great-Grandfather of ZephaniahZephaniah 1:1
Amariah was a descendant of King Hezekiah and the great-grandfather of the prophet Zephaniah during the Divided Monarchy.
Amariah, Priest of the Post-Exilic ReturnNehemiah 10:3
A prominent priest who returned from the Babylonian exile and signed the solemn covenant with Nehemiah in Jerusalem.