But I have built an house of habitation for thee, and a place for thy dwelling for ever.

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

What does 2 Chronicles 6:2 mean?

2 Chronicles 6:2 describes Solomon declaring that he has built a temple as a permanent home for God, a place where God’s presence can dwell forever. Solomon is expressing that the temple is meant to be God’s settled, lasting dwelling among the people.

Solomon is speaking during the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem, addressing both God and the gathered Israelites. This verse comes as Solomon reflects on completing the building project his father David had planned, emphasizing the temple’s role as a special, enduring place for God’s presence among His people.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 6:2

  • "House" (בַּיִת, bayit; H1004) means more than just a building—it often refers to a household or a significant, established place. Here, it highlights the temple as a central, honored location for God.
  • "Habitation" (זְבֻל, zevul; H2073) is a word that can mean a lofty or exalted dwelling. Solomon is not just talking about any house, but a place set apart and elevated for God’s presence.
  • "Dwelling" (יָשַׁב, yashav; H3427) carries the sense of settling down or abiding. Solomon’s words underline the hope that God would truly make His home there, not just visit.
  • "Ever" (עוֹלָם, olam; H5769) points to a long-lasting, even eternal, intention. Solomon is expressing a desire for God’s presence to remain with Israel for all generations.

Why 2 Chronicles 6:2 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the temple was not just a monument or a place for rituals, but was intended as a real, ongoing home for God’s presence among His people.
  • The language Solomon uses shows deep respect and awe, highlighting the temple’s special status as an exalted, permanent dwelling, not just a temporary shelter.
  • In the context of the wider passage, this verse marks the fulfillment of promises made to David and connects the physical building to God’s ongoing relationship with Israel.

Where else these words appear

“habitation” Hebrew H2073 · used in 5 verses

  • 1 Kings 8:13 I have surely built thee an house to dwell in, a settled place for thee to abide in for ever.
  • Psalms 49:14 Like sheep they are laid in the grave; death shall feed on them; and the upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty shall consume in the grave from their dwelling.
  • Isaiah 63:15 Look down from heaven, and behold from the habitation of thy holiness and of thy glory: where is thy zeal and thy strength, the sounding of thy bowels and of thy mercies toward me? are they restrained?

“place” Hebrew H4349 · used in 17 verses

  • Exodus 15:17 Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine inheritance, in the place, O LORD, which thou hast made for thee to dwell in, in the Sanctuary, O Lord, which thy hands have established.
  • 2 Chronicles 6:30 Then hear thou from heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render unto every man according unto all his ways, whose heart thou knowest;(for thou only knowest the hearts of the children of men:)
  • Psalms 89:14 Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.