2 Chronicles 6:29 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 6:29 mean?

2 Chronicles 6:29 describes how anyone in Israel, whether a single person or the whole community, can come to God in prayer when they are suffering or troubled, and God will listen if they turn to Him at the temple. The verse highlights that each person knows their own pain and can bring it honestly before God.

King Solomon is speaking during the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem, praying to God on behalf of the people of Israel. Solomon asks God to hear the prayers of anyone who recognizes their own hardship ("sore" or "grief") and reaches out to God in the temple, showing that God cares about personal struggles as well as national ones.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 6:29

• "prayer" (תְּפִלָּה, tefillah): This word means a general prayer or act of speaking to God. Its use here shows that any kind of prayer, not just formal or ritual ones, are included.
• "supplication" (תְּחִנָּה, techinnah): This word refers to a plea for mercy or favor, often from a place of deep need. It emphasizes that God welcomes heartfelt cries for help.
• "sore" (נֶגַע, nega‘): This word can mean a physical wound, plague, or affliction. It suggests that the troubles people bring may be very personal or even physical.
• "grief" (מַכְאוֹב, makh’ov): This word means pain or sorrow, often emotional or inner suffering. The verse recognizes both outward and inward struggles.

Why 2 Chronicles 6:29 matters

• 2 Chronicles 6:29 shows that God is attentive to individual pain and not just national or communal issues, making the relationship with God very personal.
• The verse clarifies that people do not need to hide their struggles; instead, they are encouraged to bring their real, known hurts to God.
• This verse is part of Solomon’s larger prayer, which sets the tone for the temple as a place where all kinds of prayers—big or small, public or private—are welcomed and heard by God.