Then hear thou from the heavens their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause.

2 CHRONICLES 6:35KJV
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2 Chronicles 6:35 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 6:35 mean?

2 Chronicles 6:35 is a prayer asking God to listen from heaven to the prayers and requests of His people and to support them in their cause. The verse expresses a hope that God will respond favorably when His people call out to Him, especially in times of need or conflict.

King Solomon is speaking these words during the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem, addressing God before the gathered Israelites. Solomon is asking God to pay attention to the prayers of the people, particularly when they are engaged in battle or facing challenges, and to act on their behalf to uphold justice or defend their position.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 6:35

  • "hear" (שָׁמַע, shamaʿ): This word means to listen attentively or respond, not just to hear sounds. Solomon is asking God to be actively attentive to the people's prayers.
  • "heavens" (שָּׁמַיִם, shamayim): Refers to God's dwelling place, emphasizing that God is above and beyond the earthly realm, yet able to respond to human requests.
  • "prayer" (תְּפִלָּה, tefillah) and "supplication" (תְּחִנָּה, techinnah): These words highlight both formal prayers and heartfelt pleas, showing that God is being asked to listen to every kind of request, whether structured or deeply personal.
  • "maintain" (עָשָׂה, asah) and "cause" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat): "Asah" here carries the sense of acting or intervening, while "mishpat" means a legal case or just cause. Solomon is asking God to take action to uphold justice for His people.

Why 2 Chronicles 6:35 matters

  • This verse shows that Solomon sees prayer as more than ritual; it is a real appeal for God’s involvement in the lives and struggles of His people.
  • The verse connects to the larger prayer in this chapter, where Solomon asks God to respond to Israel in various situations, showing a deep trust in God's justice and care.
  • The use of both "prayer" and "supplication" emphasizes that God welcomes all kinds of communication from His people, whether formal or desperate, and is willing to act on their behalf.