1 Kings 8:2

KJV

And all the men of Israel assembled themselves unto king Solomon at the feast in the month Ethanim, which [is] the seventh month.

KJV (with Strong's)

And all the men {H376} of Israel {H3478} assembled {H6950} themselves unto king {H4428} Solomon {H8010} at the feast {H2282} in the month {H3391} Ethanim {H388}, which is the seventh {H7637} month {H2320}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All the men of Isra'el assembled before King Shlomo at the festival in the month of Etanim, the seventh month.

Berean Standard Bible

And all the men of Israel came together to King Solomon at the feast in the seventh month, the month of Ethanim.

American Standard Version

And all the men of Israel assembled themselves unto king Solomon at the feast, in the month Ethanim, which is the seventh month.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This pivotal verse establishes the precise temporal and communal setting for the monumental dedication of King Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. It vividly portrays the unified assembly of the entire Israelite nation before their monarch, gathered for a significant feast in the divinely ordained seventh month, thereby underscoring the profound national, spiritual, and historical importance of this long-anticipated event.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows [1 Kings 8:1](/1_kings/8-1 "1 Kings 8:1 - The Gathering for Temple Dedication"), which details the assembly of the elders of Israel and the heads of the tribes to King Solomon in Jerusalem. [1 Kings 8:2](/1_kings/8-2 "1 Kings 8:2 - Timing of the Temple Dedication") then broadens the scope, emphasizing that "all the men of Israel" were present, highlighting the national scale of the event. This grand convocation sets the stage for the pivotal moment described in [1 Kings 8:3-11](/1_kings/8-3 "1 Kings 8:3-11 - The Ark Brought to the Temple"), where the Ark of the Covenant is brought into the newly completed Temple, culminating in the manifestation of God's glory, filling the house. The narrative flow meticulously builds anticipation for the Temple's dedication, which represents the climax of Solomon's reign and the fulfillment of David's vision.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The dedication of the Temple was the culmination of a monumental building project that spanned seven years ([1 Kings 6:38](/1_kings/6-38 "1 Kings 6:38 - Completion of the Temple")). Historically, the Temple served as the central place of worship for the Israelite nation, replacing the portable Tabernacle. Its construction under Solomon symbolized the establishment of a permanent dwelling for God's presence among His people, reinforcing Jerusalem's status as the religious and political capital. Culturally, such a grand assembly during a major pilgrimage feast, like the Feast of Tabernacles, was a common practice, signifying national unity, communal worship, and adherence to Mosaic law. Kings, like Solomon, played a crucial role in leading these national religious events, demonstrating their piety and reinforcing their divinely appointed authority.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "The Book of 1 Kings - History of Israel's Kings"). Firstly, it underscores **National Unity and Communal Worship**, as "all the men of Israel assembled themselves," signifying a unified national identity centered on their covenant God and His newly established dwelling place. This echoes the communal gatherings commanded in the Torah, such as those for the [Feast of Unleavened Bread](/exodus/12-15 "Exodus 12:15 - Feast of Unleavened Bread"). Secondly, the timing "at the feast in the month Ethanim, which is the seventh month" highlights the **Significance of Divine Timing and Sacred Feasts**. This specific feast is the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), commanded in [Leviticus 23:34](/leviticus/23-34 "Leviticus 23:34 - Feast of Tabernacles"), a joyous celebration of harvest and God's provision during the wilderness wanderings. Dedicating the Temple during this particular festival imbued the event with profound spiritual resonance, connecting the permanent sanctuary with God's enduring faithfulness to His people throughout their history. This precision in timing also emphasizes the theme of **Divine Order and Obedience**, demonstrating Solomon's adherence to God's prescribed calendar for worship and national assembly.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Assembled (Hebrew, _qāhal'_):** This verb signifies a purposeful gathering or convocation, often for religious or military purposes. In this context, it emphasizes the deliberate and unified coming together of the entire nation, not by chance, but by royal decree and spiritual imperative. It denotes a formal, collective action, highlighting the national significance and communal participation in the Temple dedication.
* **Ethanim (Hebrew, _’Êthānîm'_):** An ancient Hebrew name for the seventh month of the ecclesiastical calendar (corresponding to September/October). The name is thought to derive from a root meaning "perennial streams" or "enduring," possibly referring to the enduring rivers or the constancy of God's provision. After the Babylonian exile, this month became known as Tishri. Its significance lies in hosting several major festivals: Rosh Hashanah (New Year), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), and Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles), making it a period of intense spiritual activity, reflection, and celebration.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And all the men of Israel assembled themselves":** This phrase emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the gathering. It was not merely the leaders or a select few, but the entire male population capable of travel and participation, signifying national unity and a collective commitment to the event. This widespread attendance underscores the immense importance of the Temple dedication to the identity and faith of the Israelite people.
* **"unto king Solomon":** The assembly was directed towards the king, highlighting his central role as the divinely appointed leader responsible for overseeing this monumental religious and national undertaking. Solomon's leadership in this context reinforces his position as the spiritual and political head of Israel, fulfilling the vision initiated by his father, David.
* **"at the feast":** This refers specifically to one of the three annual pilgrimage festivals mandated by the Mosaic Law. Given the timing in the seventh month, it unmistakably points to the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot). This timing was highly symbolic, connecting the permanent dwelling of God with the temporary dwellings of Israel during their wilderness wanderings, celebrating God's provision and presence.
* **"in the month Ethanim, which [is] the seventh month":** This precise chronological detail anchors the event within the Israelite liturgical calendar. Ethanim, later Tishri, was a month of profound spiritual significance, encompassing the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Tabernacles. This specific timing suggests a deliberate choice, aligning the Temple's dedication with a period of national repentance, thanksgiving, and joyous celebration, thereby imbuing the event with maximum spiritual weight and communal participation.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound significance. **Emphasis** is achieved through the repeated stress on the comprehensive nature of the gathering ("all the men of Israel") and the precise timing ("at the feast in the month Ethanim, which is the seventh month"). This meticulous detail underscores the magnitude and divinely ordained nature of the Temple dedication. **Symbolism** is inherent in the very act of assembly during a major pilgrimage feast, representing national unity, communal worship, and the Israelites' covenant relationship with God. The Feast of Tabernacles itself is symbolic of God's dwelling among His people. Furthermore, the gathering of all Israel for such a central religious event can be seen as a form of **Typology**, foreshadowing future eschatological gatherings of God's people in worship, and ultimately, the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The assembly of all Israel for the Temple dedication in 1 Kings 8:2 carries profound theological weight. It signifies the culmination of God's promise to dwell among His people, moving from the portable Tabernacle to a permanent, magnificent structure. This event reinforces the covenant relationship between Yahweh and Israel, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His promises and Israel's corporate response of worship and obedience. The timing during the Feast of Tabernacles further connects the Temple's dedication to themes of divine provision, pilgrimage, and the joy of God's presence, echoing the wilderness journey and looking forward to the ultimate ingathering of God's people. It highlights the centrality of communal worship and a designated sacred space in the life of the nation, serving as a visible testament to God's reign.

* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "God's Command to Build a Sanctuary")
* [Deuteronomy 16:16](/deuteronomy/16-16 "Three Annual Feasts")
* [2 Chronicles 7:1-3](/2_chronicles/7-1 "God's Glory Fills the Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 1 Kings 8:2, depicting the unified assembly of Israel for the Temple dedication, offers timeless lessons for believers today. It reminds us of the profound importance of communal worship and the power of unity within the body of Christ. Just as the Israelites gathered in one accord to honor God and dedicate His dwelling, so too are we called to assemble together, not forsaking the gathering of ourselves, but encouraging one another in faith. This verse challenges us to consider the significance of our collective worship—how our shared presence, praise, and prayer contribute to the spiritual vitality of the community. It also highlights the value of intentionality and proper timing in our spiritual lives, aligning our significant moments and practices with God's ordained purposes and seasons, recognizing that our worship is a response to His enduring faithfulness and provision.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the national unity displayed in this verse challenge or encourage your understanding of the church as the body of Christ today?**
* **In what ways can we, as individuals and as a community, better prioritize and prepare for times of corporate worship and spiritual dedication?**
* **What "feasts" or significant spiritual seasons in your life or community might benefit from greater intentionality and a deeper recognition of God's timing?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of the "month Ethanim" and the "feast" mentioned?**

Answer: The "month Ethanim" was the ancient Hebrew name for the seventh month of the ecclesiastical calendar, later known as Tishri. This month was profoundly significant, hosting several major festivals. The "feast" referred to here is specifically the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), also known as the Feast of Booths or the Feast of Ingathering. This was one of the three annual pilgrimage festivals when all Israelite males were commanded to appear before the Lord in Jerusalem ([Deuteronomy 16:16](/deuteronomy/16-16 "Deuteronomy 16:16 - Three Annual Feasts")). Dedicating the Temple during this feast was highly symbolic, connecting the permanent dwelling of God with the temporary dwellings of Israel during their wilderness journey, celebrating God's provision and presence, and marking a time of great national joy and thanksgiving.

**Why was it important that "all the men of Israel assembled themselves"?**

Answer: The emphasis on "all the men of Israel" highlights the national and communal significance of the Temple dedication. It was not a private or localized event but a momentous occasion involving the entire covenant community. This collective assembly underscored the unity of the twelve tribes under King Solomon's leadership and their shared commitment to Yahweh as their God. It symbolized a corporate act of worship, dedication, and reaffirmation of their covenant relationship, demonstrating that the Temple was central to the identity and spiritual life of the entire nation, as seen in similar national gatherings for covenant renewal in [Joshua 24](/joshua/24 "Joshua 24 - Covenant Renewal at Shechem").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Kings 8:2 describes the dedication of a physical temple, it prophetically points to the ultimate dwelling of God among His people, fulfilled supremely in Jesus Christ. The assembly of all Israel foreshadows the universal gathering of believers from every tribe and nation who are united in Christ. Jesus Himself declared that He was greater than the Temple ([Matthew 12:6](/matthew/12-6 "Matthew 12:6 - Something Greater Than the Temple")), for in Him, God's presence truly dwelt among humanity in bodily form ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). The Feast of Tabernacles, during which the Temple was dedicated, celebrated God's dwelling with Israel; this finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who "tabernacled" among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Furthermore, through His atoning work, believers become living stones, built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, Spiritual House")). Thus, the physical assembly and dedication in Solomon's time serve as a powerful type, anticipating the new covenant reality where God's Spirit indwells believers, making them collectively the Temple of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - You Are God's Temple")), gathered eternally around the true King, Jesus, in heavenly worship.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 23:34

Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month [shall be] the feast of tabernacles [for] seven days unto the LORD.

2 Chronicles 7:8

Also at the same time Solomon kept the feast seven days, and all Israel with him, a very great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt.

2 Chronicles 7:10

And on the three and twentieth day of the seventh month he sent the people away into their tents, glad and merry in heart for the goodness that the LORD had shewed unto David, and to Solomon, and to Israel his people.

1 Kings 8:65

And at that time Solomon held a feast, and all Israel with him, a great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt, before the LORD our God, seven days and seven days, [even] fourteen days.

John 7:37

¶ In the last day, that great [day] of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.

John 7:2

Now the Jews' feast of tabernacles was at hand.

Nehemiah 8:14

And they found written in the law which the LORD had commanded by Moses, that the children of Israel should dwell in booths in the feast of the seventh month: