Observations and interpretations:
(I) Structure of chapter 8
(NAC)
- How the ark of the covenant was brought from the tent of meeting is described first (8:1–13),
- Solomon gratefully tells the audience of God’s greatness (8:14–21).
- The king offers a prayer that contains seven petitions for himself and the people (8:22–53). (These petitions contain a summary of the major elements of the Lord’s covenant with Israel.)
- Solomon exhorts the people to receive God’s blessings by keeping their covenant with the Lord (8:54–61).
- the sacrifices offered after the orations complete the dedication (8:62–66)
(II). At the end of section 1 (How the ark of the covenant was brought from the tent of meeting is described first in 8:1–13), Solomon said these after he witnessed how the glory of the LORD filled His temple,
10 Once the priests left the holy place, a cloud filled the LORD’s temple. 11 The priests could not carry out their duties because of the cloud; the LORD’s glory filled his temple.
12 Then Solomon said, “The LORD has said that he lives in thick darkness. 13 O LORD, truly I have built a lofty temple for you, a place where you can live permanently.”
12 Then Solomon said, “The LORD has said that he lives in thick darkness. 13 O LORD, truly I have built a lofty temple for you, a place where you can live permanently.”
(NAC) 8:12–13 Solomon responds in awe at God’s decision to descend to the temple. Normally the Lord dwells “in a dark cloud” or where human beings cannot see him. Such is the mystery of God’s ways (cf. Pss 18:11; 97:2). In this instance, however, the Lord chooses to descend to earth and relate to Israel directly. As Gray notes, he is the Creator and at the same time “the God of Israel who has condescended to fix his throne in the midst of his people Israel.” Consequently, “his nearness and readily-experienced power and grace never exhaust his revelation (cf. v. 27).”
Reflection: God kept His Word and showed that visually when the ark was moved into the temple. Solomon and Israel probably had not known this would happen. Has the fulfillment of God's promise ever surprised you? More than what you have ever imagined?
The closeness of God was a surprising joy to Solomon. What about you? When God comes close to you in your devotion, in your prayer, or when you read His Word, do you feel joyful?
(III) In section 4, "Solomon exhorts the people to receive God’s blessings by keeping their covenant with the Lord in 8:54–61", Solomon prayed,
57 May the LORD our God be with us, as he was with our ancestors. May he not abandon us or leave us. 58 May he make us submissive, so we can follow all his instructions and obey the commandments, rules, and regulations he commanded our ancestors.
May he make us submissive=(NET) ]The phrase literally means, "to bend our hearts toward him,” is] subordinate to the initial prayer, “may the LORD our God be with us.” The Hebrew term “heart” here refers to the people’s volition and will.
May he make us submissive=(NET) ]The phrase literally means, "to bend our hearts toward him,” is] subordinate to the initial prayer, “may the LORD our God be with us.” The Hebrew term “heart” here refers to the people’s volition and will.
Reflection: In other words, Solomon prayed that God would be with them and the presence with God might bend their hearts or change their volition/will towards Him. If the presence of God made people bend their hearts towards Him, are you willing to pray this prayer? Do you want God to bend your hearts towards Him?
Audrey
Comments