1 kings 8:43 - hear in heaven, your dwelling place, and do according to all that the foreigner calls to you for; that all the peoples of the earth may know your name, to fear you, as do your people Israel, and that they may know that this house which I have built is called by your name.

Generated Verse: 1 kings 8:43

What does "1 kings 8:43" mean?


This verse, 1 Kings 8:43, is part of Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem. It speaks to God's potential mercy and accessibility to foreigners, those outside of the covenant nation of Israel. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"hear in heaven, your dwelling place, and do according to all that the foreigner calls to you for": This is a plea for God to listen to the prayers of foreigners who come to the Temple to pray. Solomon asks that God not only hear their prayers but also answer them "according to all" that they request, implying a generous and compassionate response.

"that all the peoples of the earth may know your name, to fear you, as do your people Israel": The purpose of God answering the prayers of foreigners is not just for their individual benefit. It's part of a broader goal: that all nations will come to know God and have reverence (fear) for Him, similar to the way the Israelites do. "Fear" in this context means respect, awe, and a recognition of God's power and authority.

"and that they may know that this house which I have built is called by your name": Solomon wants the world to recognize that the Temple is a place dedicated to God. When God answers the prayers of foreigners at the Temple, it will demonstrate the Temple's connection to the divine, validating its purpose as a place of worship and connection to God. It reinforces that God's presence and power are accessible through this dedicated place.

In essence, this verse expresses a desire for God's fame to spread beyond Israel and encompass all nations. It envisions a time when foreigners, recognizing God's power and hearing of His responsiveness, will be drawn to Him through prayer at the Temple. It highlights the potential for the Temple to serve as a beacon, attracting people from all over the world to worship the one true God.

This verse is significant because it reveals:

God's universal concern: It suggests that God's love and concern extend to all people, not just the Israelites.
The purpose of the Temple: The Temple isn't just for Israel; it's meant to be a house of prayer for all nations (as later emphasized by Jesus in the Gospels).
The role of Israel: Israel is meant to be a light to the nations, drawing others to God through their faithfulness and through the evidence of God's blessing upon them.

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