And he stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands:

2 CHRONICLES 6:12KJV
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2 Chronicles 6:12 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 6:12 mean?

2 Chronicles 6:12 describes Solomon standing before the altar of the LORD, in front of all the people of Israel, and spreading out his hands. This action signals the beginning of a public prayer or dedication, showing humility and openness before God and the gathered community.

Solomon, as king, is leading a significant moment during the dedication of the newly built temple in Jerusalem. The verse sets the scene for his prayer by highlighting his physical posture and the presence of the entire congregation. Spreading out his hands is a gesture often associated with earnest prayer and seeking God's attention or blessing.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 6:12

  • "Stood" (עָמַד, ʿamad): This word means to stand or take one’s place. Here, it emphasizes Solomon’s deliberate and respectful posture as he prepares to address God.
  • "Before" (פָּנִים, panim): Often translated as "before" or "in the presence of," this word highlights that Solomon is standing openly, not just before the altar, but before God and all the people.
  • "Spread forth" (פָּרַשׂ, paras): This verb means to stretch out or spread. The act of spreading out his hands is a visible sign of prayer and surrender, underlining Solomon’s attitude of openness and dependence on God.
  • "Hands" (כַּף, kaf): Refers specifically to the palms or open hands, reinforcing the image of Solomon’s gesture as one of openness and appeal.

Why 2 Chronicles 6:12 matters

  • The verse highlights the public and communal nature of Solomon’s prayer, showing that this dedication is not a private act but one meant to involve and represent all Israel.
  • The physical gesture of spreading out hands helps readers understand ancient prayer customs and the seriousness with which Solomon approaches God.
  • This verse sets the stage for Solomon’s famous prayer that follows, emphasizing the importance of leadership, humility, and reverence in moments of worship.

Where else these words appear

“forth” Hebrew H6566 · used in 66 verses

  • Exodus 9:29 And Moses said unto him, As soon as I am gone out of the city, I will spread abroad my hands unto the LORD; and the thunder shall cease, neither shall there be any more hail; that thou mayest know how that the earth is the LORD'S.
  • 2 Kings 8:15 And it came to pass on the morrow, that he took a thick cloth, and dipped it in water, and spread it on his face, so that he died: and Hazael reigned in his stead.
  • Isaiah 33:23 Thy tacklings are loosed; they could not well strengthen their mast, they could not spread the sail: then is the prey of a great spoil divided; the lame take the prey.

“congregation” Hebrew H6951 · used in 116 verses

  • Genesis 28:3 And God Almighty bless thee, and make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, that thou mayest be a multitude of people;
  • 1 Kings 8:22 And Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands toward heaven:
  • Nehemiah 7:66 The whole congregation together was forty and two thousand three hundred and threescore,