2 chronicles 6:34 - “If your people go out to battle against their enemies, by whatever way you send them, and they pray to you toward this city which you have chosen, and the house which I have built for your name;

Generated Verse: 2 chronicles 6:34

What does "2 chronicles 6:34" mean?


This verse, 2 Chronicles 6:34, is part of Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem. It speaks to God's mercy and responsiveness to prayer, specifically in times of war and national crisis. Let's break down the meaning:

"If your people go out to battle against their enemies, by whatever way you send them...": This acknowledges that battles are sometimes divinely ordained or permitted. God might send his people to war for various reasons – defense, justice, or judgment. "Whatever way you send them" implies that God has a hand in guiding their campaigns, even if indirectly.

"...and they pray to you toward this city which you have chosen, and the house which I have built for your name...": This is the key condition. If the Israelites face war, they are encouraged to pray toward Jerusalem (the chosen city) and specifically toward the Temple (the house built for God's name). This act signifies:
Acknowledgement of God's sovereignty: Turning to God in prayer recognizes that victory and defeat ultimately depend on Him, not just on military strength.
Confession and repentance: Prayer often includes acknowledging sin and seeking forgiveness, which is essential for receiving God's favor.
Focus on God's presence: The Temple was the central place of worship, believed to be where God's presence was especially manifest. Praying toward it symbolized a desire to connect with God.
Remembrance of the covenant: The Temple was built to honor God and as a sign of the covenant between God and Israel. Praying toward it reminded the people of their obligations to God.

In essence, the verse is a promise (implied) that if the Israelites, when facing war, turn to God in prayer, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His help through the chosen place of worship, then God will hear and act on their behalf.

Broader Implications:

God's Mercy: The verse demonstrates God's willingness to hear and answer prayers, even in the context of national crisis and potential punishment.
Importance of Prayer: It highlights the power of prayer and its crucial role in seeking God's intervention in all aspects of life, including national affairs.
Centrality of Worship: It underscores the significance of the Temple (and, by extension, any dedicated place of worship) as a focal point for prayer and communion with God.

Modern Application:

While we don't have a physical Temple in the same way, the underlying principles remain relevant:

We should turn to God in prayer during times of trouble and conflict.
We should acknowledge God's sovereignty over all things, including national affairs.
We should seek God's guidance and wisdom in times of uncertainty.
We should remember the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness for our sins.
We should seek to worship God in spirit and in truth, drawing near to Him in prayer and devotion.

The verse, therefore, is not simply about a specific practice in ancient Israel, but about the enduring importance of prayer, faith, and reliance on God in times of difficulty.

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