This verse, 1 Kings 8:55, is part of the description of the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem by King Solomon. It simply means that Solomon, standing before the assembled people of Israel, offered a blessing to them in a clear and audible voice.
Let's break it down:
"He stood...": This indicates Solomon's posture, showing respect and authority as he addresses the people. Standing was a common position for public speaking and prayer in ancient Israel.
"...and blessed all the assembly of Israel...": This is the core action. Solomon is invoking God's favor and well-being upon the entire congregation of Israelites gathered for the momentous occasion. "Blessed" here means to pronounce good fortune, favor, and divine protection upon them.
"...with a loud voice...": This emphasizes the importance and sincerity of Solomon's blessing. A loud voice ensured that everyone present could hear the blessing. It also conveyed a sense of authority and solemnity.
In essence, the verse describes Solomon publicly and powerfully asking for God's favor and protection to be upon the entire nation of Israel as they celebrated the completion of the Temple. This sets the stage for the specific content of the blessing which follows in the subsequent verses.
This verse, 1 Kings 8:55, is part of the description of the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem by King Solomon. It simply means that Solomon, standing before the assembled people of Israel, offered a blessing to them in a clear and audible voice.
Let's break it down:
"He stood...": This indicates Solomon's posture, showing respect and authority as he addresses the people. Standing was a common position for public speaking and prayer in ancient Israel.
"...and blessed all the assembly of Israel...": This is the core action. Solomon is invoking God's favor and well-being upon the entire congregation of Israelites gathered for the momentous occasion. "Blessed" here means to pronounce good fortune, favor, and divine protection upon them.
"...with a loud voice...": This emphasizes the importance and sincerity of Solomon's blessing. A loud voice ensured that everyone present could hear the blessing. It also conveyed a sense of authority and solemnity.
In essence, the verse describes Solomon publicly and powerfully asking for God's favor and protection to be upon the entire nation of Israel as they celebrated the completion of the Temple. This sets the stage for the specific content of the blessing which follows in the subsequent verses.