2 Chronicles 6:40

Now, my God, may Your eyes be open and Your ears attentive to the prayer offered in this place.

Study Bible

Now, my God
This phrase begins with a personal and intimate address to God, indicating Solomon's deep relationship and reverence for the Almighty. The Hebrew word for "God" here is "Elohim," which is a plural form often used to denote the majesty and fullness of God's nature. Solomon's use of "my God" reflects a personal covenant relationship, emphasizing that the God of Israel is not a distant deity but one who is intimately involved with His people.

may Your eyes be open
The imagery of God's "eyes" being open is a metaphorical expression that signifies God's awareness and vigilance. In the Hebrew context, eyes represent perception and understanding. Solomon is asking for God's continuous attention and care over the temple and the prayers offered there. This request is rooted in the belief that God is omniscient and sees all things, a comforting assurance for the faithful that their supplications are not ignored.

and Your ears attentive
Here, Solomon petitions for God's "ears" to be attentive, which complements the previous request for God's eyes to be open. The Hebrew word for "attentive" suggests a readiness to listen and respond. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of a deity who is actively engaged with His worshippers. Solomon's prayer underscores the belief that God is not only aware of human needs but is also willing to hear and answer prayers.

to the prayer offered
The phrase "the prayer offered" indicates a specific act of communication with God. In the Hebrew tradition, prayer is a vital expression of faith and dependence on God. The temple, as the central place of worship, is where these prayers are directed. This highlights the importance of the temple as a sacred space where God's presence is uniquely manifest, and where the community gathers to seek divine intervention and guidance.

in this place
"This place" refers to the newly constructed temple in Jerusalem, which Solomon has dedicated to the Lord. The temple is not just a physical structure but a symbol of God's covenant with Israel. It represents God's dwelling among His people and serves as a focal point for worship and prayer. Historically, the temple was the heart of Israel's religious life, and Solomon's dedication prayer seeks to establish it as a perpetual house of prayer for all who seek God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. God
The Almighty, to whom Solomon is directing his prayer, seeking His presence and attention.

3. The Temple in Jerusalem
The newly constructed house of worship where Solomon is dedicating the temple and asking for God's presence.

4. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, for whom Solomon is interceding in his prayer.

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

Teaching Points

The Importance of God's Presence
Solomon's prayer emphasizes the necessity of God's presence in our places of worship and in our lives. We should seek His presence earnestly.

The Power of Prayer
Solomon's request for God's attentive ears highlights the power and importance of prayer. We are encouraged to pray with faith, knowing God hears us.

Dedication to God
Just as Solomon dedicated the temple, we are called to dedicate our lives and our places of worship to God, seeking His blessing and guidance.

God's Faithfulness
Solomon's prayer reflects trust in God's faithfulness to His promises. We can rely on God's faithfulness in our own lives.

Intercession for Others
Solomon intercedes for the people of Israel, reminding us of the importance of praying for others and seeking God's favor on their behalf.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's request for God's eyes and ears to be open challenge us in our own prayer lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our places of worship are dedicated to God and His purposes?

3. How does understanding God's faithfulness in the past encourage us to trust Him with our present and future?

4. What role does intercessory prayer play in your life, and how can you grow in this area?

5. How can we apply the principle of seeking God's presence in our daily lives, beyond the walls of a church building?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8:29
This verse parallels 2 Chronicles 6:40, where Solomon asks for God's eyes to be open toward the temple.

Psalm 34:15
This verse speaks of the eyes of the Lord being on the righteous and His ears attentive to their cry, echoing Solomon's request.

Isaiah 56:7
This verse refers to God's house being a house of prayer for all nations, connecting to the purpose of the temple.

James 5:16
This verse highlights the power of prayer, which is relevant to Solomon's plea for God to hear the prayers offered in the temple.

Hebrews 4:16
This verse encourages believers to approach God's throne of grace with confidence, similar to Solomon's bold request for God's attention.