King James Version

What Does 2 Chronicles 6:2 Mean?

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

Context

Then said Solomon, The LORD hath said that he would dwell in the thick darkness.

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

And the king turned his face, and blessed the whole congregation of Israel: and all the congregation of Israel stood.

And he said, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, who hath with his hands fulfilled that which he spake with his mouth to my father David, saying,

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **But I have built.**—*And* *I,* *on my part, have built.* Kings, “I *have* built” (*bānōh bānîthî*); scil., as “Thou didst indicate.” This seems original. So the Syr. here, *mebnô b’nîth,* but not LXX. and Vulg. **Habitation.**—*Zĕbûl,* a poetic word, occurring only five times. (Comp. Habakkuk 3:11.) **And a place.**—*And,* added here, weakens the force of the poetic parallelism. **A place for thy dwelling.**—(Exodus 15:17) another poetic expression. **For** **ever.**—(Through) *ages.* So only in this account and Psalm 61:5.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Chronicles 6:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.