2 Chronicles 6:28 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 6:28 mean?

2 Chronicles 6:28 lists a range of disasters—famine, disease, crop failure, insect plagues, enemy attacks, and sickness—that could strike the land and people of Israel. The verse is part of a prayer asking God to hear and respond when the people cry out during any of these troubles.

In this scene, King Solomon is praying publicly at the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem, asking God to be attentive to the prayers of His people in times of crisis. Solomon names specific hardships that ancient Israelites might face, showing an awareness of the real dangers to their survival and well-being.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 6:28

• "Dearth" (רָעָב, ra'av) means famine or severe lack of food, highlighting the threat of hunger in the land.
• "Pestilence" (דֶּבֶר, dever) refers to widespread disease or plague, a common fear in ancient times.
• "Blasting" (שִׁדָּפוֹן, shiddafon) is a word for scorching or blight, often caused by hot east winds that damage crops.
• "Mildew" (יֵרָקוֹן, yerakon) points to a plant disease that ruins harvests, emphasizing vulnerability in agriculture.
• "Locusts" (אַרְבֶּה, arbeh) and "caterpillars" (חָסִיל, chasil) both refer to insects that could devastate crops, making the threat to food supply even clearer.
• "Enemies" (אוֹיֵב, oyev) and "besiege" (צָרַר, tsarar) together describe hostile forces surrounding and attacking cities, a real danger in the ancient world.
• "Sore" (נֶגַע, nega) and "sickness" (מַחֲלָה, machalah) are general terms for any affliction or illness, broadening the scope to all kinds of suffering.

Why 2 Chronicles 6:28 matters

• This verse shows Solomon’s understanding that trouble can come in many forms, not just war or sin, but also natural disasters and disease.
• By naming specific hardships, Solomon’s prayer connects with everyday fears and needs of ordinary people, making his appeal to God very practical and relatable.
• The verse fits into a larger prayer where Solomon asks God to be merciful and attentive, setting a pattern for how the people should turn to God in any crisis.