2 Chronicles 7:4 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 7:4 mean?

2 Chronicles 7:4 describes a public act of worship at the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem. King Solomon and the people present bring animal sacrifices to the LORD, joining the king and the gathered community in the temple’s opening celebration.

The scene follows the people’s response to fire coming down from heaven and the glory of the LORD filling the temple. The phrase “before the LORD” places the offering in the LORD’s presence, at the house built for his worship.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 7:4

• “offered” — זָבַח (zavach): This word can mean to slaughter an animal as a sacrifice. It gives a more specific picture of the act than the English word “offered” alone.
• “before” — פָּנִים (panim): This word often means “face” and can also express being in someone’s presence. Here it describes the sacrifices as being presented before the LORD.

Why 2 Chronicles 7:4 matters

• The dedication involves the gathered people as well as Solomon. The words “the king and all the people” show the community taking part alongside its ruler.
• The verse introduces a much larger offering. Verse 5 gives the numbers of cattle and sheep Solomon offered and says that the king and the people dedicated the house of God.
• The sacrifices belong to a celebration that continues after the temple building is complete. Later in the passage, the people keep a feast and then return to their homes (2 Chronicles 7:8–10).