This verse, 1 Kings 8:54, describes the conclusion of Solomon's dedicatory prayer at the Temple in Jerusalem. Let's break down what it means:
"It was so, that when Solomon had finished praying all this prayer and supplication to Yahweh..." This simply states that Solomon had completed the lengthy and heartfelt prayer he had just spoken. The "all this prayer and supplication" emphasizes the extensive and earnest nature of his communication with God.
"...he arose from before Yahweh’s altar..." Solomon had been positioned in front of the altar of burnt offerings, likely in the inner court of the Temple. This was the place of sacrifice and a focal point for communication with God. The fact that he arose indicates that his formal prayer session had ended.
"...from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread out toward heaven." This describes Solomon's posture during his prayer. Kneeling was a sign of humility and reverence before God. Spreading his hands out toward heaven was a gesture of supplication, asking for God's blessing and intervention. It was a common posture in prayer, signifying openness and a plea for God's presence and help.
In Summary:
The verse marks the end of Solomon's formal dedicatory prayer. It highlights:
The completion of a significant and heartfelt prayer.
Solomon's respectful posture of kneeling with hands raised towards heaven as an act of humility and dependence on God.
His movement away from the altar, signifying the conclusion of that particular act of worship.
Significance:
This verse is important because it:
Marks the end of a pivotal moment in Israel's history - the dedication of the Temple.
Illustrates the importance of prayer in the relationship between God and His people.
Shows the proper posture of humility and reverence in prayer.
It provides a picture of a king completely devoted to God in this significant event.
This verse, 1 Kings 8:54, describes the conclusion of Solomon's dedicatory prayer at the Temple in Jerusalem. Let's break down what it means:
"It was so, that when Solomon had finished praying all this prayer and supplication to Yahweh..." This simply states that Solomon had completed the lengthy and heartfelt prayer he had just spoken. The "all this prayer and supplication" emphasizes the extensive and earnest nature of his communication with God.
"...he arose from before Yahweh’s altar..." Solomon had been positioned in front of the altar of burnt offerings, likely in the inner court of the Temple. This was the place of sacrifice and a focal point for communication with God. The fact that he arose indicates that his formal prayer session had ended.
"...from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread out toward heaven." This describes Solomon's posture during his prayer. Kneeling was a sign of humility and reverence before God. Spreading his hands out toward heaven was a gesture of supplication, asking for God's blessing and intervention. It was a common posture in prayer, signifying openness and a plea for God's presence and help.
In Summary:
The verse marks the end of Solomon's formal dedicatory prayer. It highlights:
The completion of a significant and heartfelt prayer.
Solomon's respectful posture of kneeling with hands raised towards heaven as an act of humility and dependence on God.
His movement away from the altar, signifying the conclusion of that particular act of worship.
Significance:
This verse is important because it:
Marks the end of a pivotal moment in Israel's history - the dedication of the Temple.
Illustrates the importance of prayer in the relationship between God and His people.
Shows the proper posture of humility and reverence in prayer.
It provides a picture of a king completely devoted to God in this significant event.