Have respect therefore to the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplication, O LORD my God, to hearken unto the cry and the prayer which thy servant prayeth before thee:
2 CHRONICLES 6:19KJVWhat does 2 Chronicles 6:19 mean?
2 Chronicles 6:19 is Solomon’s humble request that God would pay attention to his prayer and listen to his earnest plea. Solomon is asking God to notice and respond to the prayers he is offering on behalf of himself and the people.
Solomon is speaking during the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem, addressing God directly in front of the gathered Israelites. The verse shows Solomon’s awareness of his own position as God’s servant and his dependence on God’s willingness to listen. This is part of a longer prayer where Solomon asks God to be attentive to the prayers made in or toward the temple.
The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 6:19
- "respect" (פָּנָה, panah): This word means to turn toward or pay attention. Solomon is asking God to turn His attention specifically to this prayer, highlighting the personal nature of the request.
- "supplication" (תְּחִנָּה, techinnah): This word refers to a plea for mercy or favor, not just a general prayer. It emphasizes Solomon’s humble and urgent tone.
- "cry" (רִנָּה, rinah): This word can mean a ringing cry or shout, often expressing deep emotion. Solomon’s prayer is not just formal words but a heartfelt outpouring.
Why 2 Chronicles 6:19 matters
- The verse highlights Solomon’s humility and dependence on God, showing that even a king approaches God as a servant in need of mercy.
- The use of multiple words for prayer and pleading shows the depth and seriousness of Solomon’s request, not just a routine ritual.
- This verse sets the tone for the rest of Solomon’s prayer, emphasizing the importance of God’s willingness to listen and respond to His people’s needs.