1 kings 8:52 - that your eyes may be open to the supplication of your servant, and to the supplication of your people Israel, to listen to them whenever they cry to you.

Generated Verse: 1 kings 8:52

What does "1 kings 8:52" mean?


This verse, 1 Kings 8:52, is part of Solomon's dedication prayer for the newly built Temple in Jerusalem. It is a plea to God, asking Him to:

"That your eyes may be open to the supplication of your servant..." - Solomon is asking God to be attentive and receptive to his personal prayers, the prayers of the king and representative of the people. He desires that God will not ignore him, but will consider his requests.

"...and to the supplication of your people Israel..." - This expands the request beyond just Solomon himself. He is also asking God to be attentive and receptive to the prayers of all the people of Israel. He desires that God will hear their cries and respond to their needs.

"...to listen to them whenever they cry to you." - This emphasizes the consistency and frequency of the people's need for God's intervention. Solomon is asking God to be ever-ready to hear and respond to the prayers of His people, regardless of when they pray. The idea is that when they are in trouble or need help, they can cry out to God and He will hear them.

In essence, the verse is a request for God's attentiveness, responsiveness, and availability to the prayers of both the king and the people of Israel. It speaks to the importance of prayer as a means of communication and connection between God and His people.

The verse highlights the following important theological points:

God's Accessibility: The verse implies that God is accessible to those who pray to Him. He is not distant or indifferent, but willing to listen and respond.
The Power of Prayer: The verse suggests that prayer is a powerful means of seeking God's help and intervention. Solomon believes that God will hear and answer the prayers of His people.
God's Covenant Relationship with Israel: The verse reflects the special covenant relationship between God and Israel. As God's chosen people, they have a unique privilege to call upon Him in prayer and expect Him to hear them.
Humility and Dependence: The verse emphasizes the humility and dependence of the people on God. By crying out to Him in prayer, they acknowledge their need for His help and guidance.

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