2 Chronicles 6:29

then may whatever prayer or petition Your people Israel make--each knowing his own afflictions and spreading out his hands toward this temple--

Study Bible

may each one know
The phrase "may each one know" emphasizes personal awareness and introspection. In the Hebrew context, the word for "know" is often "yada," which implies an intimate understanding or recognition. This suggests that individuals are called to a deep, personal acknowledgment of their own spiritual state. In a conservative Christian perspective, this self-awareness is crucial for repentance and spiritual growth, as it aligns with the biblical principle of examining oneself before God.

his own affliction
The term "affliction" in Hebrew is "nega," which can refer to a physical ailment, a spiritual struggle, or any form of distress. Historically, afflictions were seen as opportunities for individuals to turn to God for healing and deliverance. In the context of Solomon's prayer, it underscores the importance of recognizing one's personal struggles and bringing them before God, trusting in His power to heal and restore.

and his own sorrow
"Sorrow" here is translated from the Hebrew word "ka‘as," which denotes grief or emotional pain. This phrase highlights the personal nature of suffering and the need for individuals to confront their own emotional burdens. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, acknowledging one's sorrow is a step towards seeking God's comfort and peace, as He is described as the "God of all comfort" in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4.

and stretch out his hands
The act of stretching out one's hands is a gesture of supplication and prayer. In ancient Israelite culture, this physical posture was a common expression of earnest prayer and dependence on God. It symbolizes reaching out to God in faith, seeking His intervention and mercy. For Christians, this act represents a heart posture of humility and surrender to God's will.

toward this house
"This house" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which Solomon had just dedicated. The temple was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. In the historical context, directing prayers toward the temple signified acknowledging God's covenant and His promises. For conservative Christians, while the physical temple no longer stands, the concept of directing one's heart toward God remains vital, as believers are now considered the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). This phrase encourages believers to focus their prayers and lives on God's presence and His eternal promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who built the temple and is offering this prayer of dedication.

2. The Temple
The house of God in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites.

3. The People of Israel
The covenant community of God, who are being addressed in Solomon's prayer.

4. God
The recipient of the prayers and petitions, who dwells in the temple and hears the cries of His people.

5. Afflictions
The personal struggles and challenges faced by individuals, which they bring before God in prayer.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Personal Prayer
Each individual is encouraged to bring their personal struggles and petitions before God. This highlights the personal relationship God desires with each believer.

The Role of the Temple
The temple serves as a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, believers can find comfort in knowing that God is present in their lives through the Holy Spirit.

The Gesture of Lifting Hands
Lifting hands in prayer is a biblical gesture of surrender and seeking God's intervention. It symbolizes humility and dependence on God.

God's Readiness to Hear
God is attentive to the prayers of His people. This assurance should encourage believers to approach Him with confidence and faith.

Community and Individual Needs
While the prayer is communal, it acknowledges individual needs, teaching us the balance between corporate worship and personal devotion.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:29 reflect the personal nature of our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can the temple's role in ancient Israel inform our understanding of worship and prayer today?

3. How does the act of lifting hands in prayer enhance our spiritual practice and connection with God?

4. What are some personal afflictions you can bring before God in prayer, and how does this verse encourage you to do so?

5. How can we balance our communal worship experiences with personal devotion, as seen in Solomon's prayer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8:38
This verse parallels 2 Chronicles 6:29, as it is part of the same prayer of dedication by Solomon, emphasizing the importance of individual prayer and the temple as a place of divine encounter.

Psalm 28:2
This Psalm reflects the act of lifting hands in prayer, a gesture of seeking God's mercy and help.

Philippians 4:6
This New Testament verse encourages believers to present their requests to God, echoing the call to prayer found in Solomon's dedication.

Hebrews 4:16
This verse invites believers to approach God's throne of grace with confidence, similar to how the Israelites were encouraged to bring their petitions to the temple.