2 Chronicles 6:35

then may You hear from heaven their prayer and their plea, and may You uphold their cause.

Study Bible

then may You hear from heaven
This phrase emphasizes the divine omnipresence and omniscience of God. The Hebrew root for "hear" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just the act of hearing but also understanding and responding. In the context of ancient Israel, heaven is seen as God's dwelling place, a realm beyond human reach yet intimately connected to earthly affairs. This reflects the belief that God is both transcendent and immanent, capable of intervening in human history. The plea for God to hear from heaven underscores the Israelites' dependence on divine intervention and their faith in God's ability to act from His heavenly throne.

their prayer and their plea
The words "prayer" and "plea" are significant in the Hebrew context. "Prayer" (תְּפִלָּה, tefillah) is a general term for communication with God, often involving praise, thanksgiving, and requests. "Plea" (תְּחִנָּה, techinnah) suggests a more urgent, earnest supplication, often arising from a place of desperation or deep need. This duality highlights the range of human emotions and situations brought before God, from routine petitions to cries for help in dire circumstances. Historically, this reflects the communal and individual practices of worship and supplication in ancient Israel, where the temple served as a focal point for such expressions of faith.

and may You uphold their cause
The phrase "uphold their cause" is rooted in the Hebrew word "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning to do, make, or execute. It implies action and justice, suggesting that God is not only a passive listener but an active participant in the lives of His people. The "cause" (דִּין, din) refers to a legal case or judgment, indicating that the Israelites are seeking divine justice and vindication. This reflects the theocratic nature of ancient Israel, where God is seen as the ultimate judge and arbiter. The plea for God to uphold their cause is a request for divine justice, aligning with the biblical theme of God as a righteous judge who defends the oppressed and upholds the covenant with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and the builder of the first temple in Jerusalem. He is the one offering this prayer of dedication for the temple.

2. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who are the primary focus of Solomon's prayer, seeking God's favor and protection.

3. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

4. Heaven
The dwelling place of God, from where Solomon asks God to hear the prayers of His people.

5. The Dedication of the Temple
A significant event where Solomon prays for God's presence and blessing upon the temple and the people of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Solomon's prayer demonstrates the importance of seeking God's intervention and guidance in all circumstances. Believers are encouraged to pray with faith, knowing that God hears and responds.

God's Sovereignty
The request for God to "uphold their cause" acknowledges His ultimate authority and justice. Christians are reminded to trust in God's perfect will and timing.

Intercession for Others
Solomon's prayer is not just for himself but for the entire nation. This teaches the value of interceding for others, lifting up their needs before God.

The Role of the Temple
The temple was a physical representation of God's presence. Today, believers are reminded that they are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live lives that honor God.

Faith in Action
Solomon's prayer is an example of faith in action, showing that prayer is not passive but an active engagement with God, seeking His will and intervention.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:35 reflect his understanding of God's character and His relationship with Israel?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of intercessory prayer in our own lives and communities today?

3. How does the concept of God hearing from heaven encourage you in your personal prayer life?

4. What are some practical ways to ensure that our lives reflect the holiness of being a "temple of the Holy Spirit"?

5. How can we balance trusting in God's sovereignty while actively praying for specific outcomes in our lives and the lives of others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8:44-45
This passage parallels 2 Chronicles 6:35, as it is part of Solomon's prayer during the temple dedication, emphasizing God's response to the prayers of His people.

Psalm 18:6
This verse highlights the theme of God hearing the cries of His people from His heavenly dwelling.

James 5:16
This New Testament verse underscores the power of prayer, connecting to the idea of God hearing and responding to the prayers of the righteous.

Hebrews 4:16
Encourages believers to approach God's throne of grace with confidence, similar to Solomon's plea for God to hear from heaven.