King James Version

What Does 2 Chronicles 7:8 Mean?

“Also at the same time Solomon kept the feast seven days, and all Israel with him, a very great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt.”

Context

And the priests waited on their offices: the Levites also with instruments of musick of the LORD, which David the king had made to praise the LORD, because his mercy endureth for ever, when David praised by their ministry; and the priests sounded trumpets before them, and all Israel stood. by their: Heb. by their hand

Moreover Solomon hallowed the middle of the court that was before the house of the LORD: for there he offered burnt offerings, and the fat of the peace offerings, because the brasen altar which Solomon had made was not able to receive the burnt offerings, and the meat offerings, and the fat.

Also at the same time Solomon kept the feast seven days, and all Israel with him, a very great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt.

And in the eighth day they made a solemn assembly: for they kept the dedication of the altar seven days, and the feast seven days. a solemn: Heb. a restraint

And on the three and twentieth day of the seventh month he sent the people away into their tents, glad and merry in heart for the goodness that the LORD had shewed unto David, and to Solomon, and to Israel his people.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(8) **Also at the same time.**—Literally, *And Solomon made the feast at that time seven days.* “The feast” was the Feast of Tabernacles. (See Leviticus 23:34-36.) **Seven days.**—The legal time. (See Lev. *50100*) The days were counted from the 15th of the seventh month. (Comp. 1Kings 8:65.) **The river.**—*Torrent* or *wady.* LXX., χειμάρρους*.* Kings adds, “before the Lord our God.” So Syriac.

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 7:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.