2 Chronicles 6:28

When famine or plague comes upon the land, or blight or mildew or locusts or grasshoppers, or when their enemies besiege them in their cities, whatever plague or sickness may come,

Study Bible

When famine or plague comes upon the land
Famine and plague were common occurrences in the ancient Near East, often seen as divine judgment or testing. In the biblical context, famine is frequently associated with a call to repentance (e.g., 2 Samuel 21:1). Plagues, similarly, are seen as instruments of God's discipline (e.g., Exodus 9:14). The land of Israel, being agriculturally dependent, was particularly vulnerable to these calamities, which could devastate the economy and lead to social unrest.

or blight or mildew
Blight and mildew refer to agricultural diseases that affect crops, leading to poor harvests. These conditions are mentioned in Deuteronomy 28:22 as part of the curses for disobedience to God's covenant. The Israelites were acutely aware of their dependence on God for agricultural success, and these afflictions served as reminders of the need for faithfulness.

or locusts or grasshoppers
Locusts and grasshoppers are destructive pests that can consume entire fields, leading to severe food shortages. The locust plague is famously depicted in the book of Joel, symbolizing both a literal and a spiritual crisis. Such invasions were feared in the ancient world and often interpreted as signs of divine displeasure.

or when their enemies besiege them in their cities
Sieges were a common military tactic in the ancient world, often resulting in severe hardship for the inhabitants of the besieged city. The threat of siege is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, highlighting the vulnerability of Israel without divine protection. Historical accounts, such as the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, underscore the importance of reliance on God for deliverance (2 Kings 19:32-34).

whatever plague or sickness may come
This phrase encompasses a broad range of afflictions, emphasizing the unpredictability and variety of challenges that can arise. It reflects the understanding that human life is fraught with uncertainties and that divine intervention is necessary for protection and healing. The mention of sickness also points to the need for communal and individual repentance and prayer, as seen in the healing narratives of the New Testament (e.g., James 5:14-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who is offering a prayer of dedication for the newly built temple in Jerusalem. He is seeking God's favor and protection for the people of Israel.

2. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Solomon's prayer is part of the temple's dedication ceremony.

3. Israelites
The people of God who are the primary audience of Solomon's prayer. They are the ones who will face the various calamities mentioned.

4. Famine, Plague, Blight, Mildew, Locusts, Grasshoppers
These are specific disasters that Solomon mentions, representing both natural and man-made calamities that could afflict the land.

5. Enemies
Refers to the nations or groups that might besiege the Israelites, posing a threat to their safety and security.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God in Times of Trouble
Solomon's prayer acknowledges that disasters are beyond human control and that the people must rely on God for deliverance and protection.

The Role of Prayer in Seeking Divine Intervention
Solomon models intercessory prayer, teaching believers to bring their concerns and the needs of their community before God.

Covenant Relationship and Obedience
The calamities mentioned are often linked to the Israelites' obedience to God's covenant, reminding believers of the importance of faithfulness to God's commands.

Community and National Repentance
The prayer implies a collective turning to God in times of national crisis, encouraging believers to seek communal repentance and restoration.

God's Sovereignty Over Nature and Nations
The passage underscores God's control over natural and political events, reassuring believers of His ultimate authority and power.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:28 reflect the Israelites' understanding of their covenant relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of Solomon's prayer to our personal and communal prayer life today?

3. How do the specific disasters mentioned in this verse relate to the broader themes of blessing and curse found in Deuteronomy 28?

4. What role does repentance play in seeking God's intervention during times of crisis, as seen in this passage and other scriptures like Joel 1?

5. How can we find comfort in God's sovereignty over natural and man-made disasters, as demonstrated in Solomon's prayer and other biblical texts like Psalm 91?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including many of the calamities Solomon mentions, highlighting the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

1 Kings 8
This parallel account of Solomon's prayer provides additional context and details about the dedication of the temple.

Psalm 91
Offers assurance of God's protection and deliverance from various dangers, echoing the themes of divine protection in Solomon's prayer.

Joel 1
Describes a locust plague and calls for repentance, similar to the disasters mentioned by Solomon, emphasizing the need for turning back to God.