It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the LORD;

2 CHRONICLES 5:13KJV
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2 Chronicles 5:13 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 5:13 mean?

2 Chronicles 5:13 describes a moment when the musicians and singers at Solomon’s Temple joined together in perfect unity to praise and thank the LORD, declaring His goodness and enduring mercy. As they lifted their voices and instruments in worship, the Temple was filled with a cloud, symbolizing the presence of God filling His house.

This scene takes place during the dedication of Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem. The priests, trumpeters, and singers are all participating in a grand ceremony, expressing gratitude and praise to the LORD (the God of Israel). The cloud that fills the Temple is a visible sign that God’s presence has come to dwell among His people, marking the Temple as a special meeting place between God and Israel.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 5:13

  • "One" (אֶחָד, 'echad'): This word is used twice to emphasize the unity of the musicians and singers, showing that their praise was completely unified, not just in sound but in purpose.
  • "Mercy" (חֶסֶד, chesed): This Hebrew word means steadfast love or loyal kindness. The phrase "his mercy endureth for ever" highlights God’s ongoing, faithful love for His people.
  • "Cloud" (עָנָן, 'anan'): The cloud filling the Temple is a recurring symbol in the Old Testament for God’s glory and presence, as seen earlier in the wilderness with Moses.

Why 2 Chronicles 5:13 matters

  • This verse clarifies that true worship involves both unity among people and heartfelt praise directed to God, not just ritual or music alone.
  • The filling of the Temple with a cloud connects this event to earlier moments in Israel’s history, such as the cloud over the Tabernacle, showing continuity in how God reveals His presence.
  • The repeated declaration of God’s goodness and enduring mercy becomes a central theme in Israel’s worship, shaping how later generations would understand and approach God.