1 Kings 8:2

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

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}.

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

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

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

Commentary

This verse provides the crucial setting for one of the most significant events in ancient Israelite history: the dedication of King Solomon's magnificent Temple in Jerusalem. It underscores the national importance and precise timing of this momentous occasion.

Context

Verse 1 Kings 8:2 sets the stage immediately after the gathering of the elders of Israel and the heads of the tribes to King Solomon in Jerusalem. After seven years of construction, as detailed in 1 Kings 6:38, the Temple was finally complete. This grand assembly of "all the men of Israel" signifies a pivotal moment, marking the completion and consecration of the permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, moving it from the Tabernacle to its new home. It was a national event, uniting the tribes under King Solomon's leadership, comparable in national significance to the giving of the Law at Sinai or the entry into the Promised Land.

Key Themes

  • National Unity and Worship: The phrase "all the men of Israel assembled themselves" highlights the profound sense of national unity and shared purpose. This was not merely a political gathering but a spiritual pilgrimage, emphasizing communal worship and national identity centered on God and His newly completed Temple.
  • Significance of the Feast: The timing "at the feast" refers specifically to the Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot or the Feast of Booths. This major pilgrimage festival, commanded by God in Leviticus 23:34, was a joyous celebration of the harvest and a remembrance of God's provision and faithfulness during their wilderness journey. Dedicating the Temple during this particular feast amplified its spiritual significance, connecting the new permanent dwelling with God's past care for His wandering people.
  • Divine Order and Timing: The specific mention of "the month Ethanim, which is the seventh month," underscores the meticulous adherence to God's prescribed calendar. This precision emphasizes that such momentous events should align with divine timing and established religious practices, further highlighting the sacredness and order of the occasion.

Linguistic and Cultural Insights

The month of Ethanim (ืึตืชึธื ึดื™ื, โ€™รŠthฤnรฎm) is an ancient Hebrew name for the seventh month of the ecclesiastical calendar. Its name is thought to mean "perennial streams" or "gifts." Later, after the Babylonian exile, this month became known as Tishri. The seventh month was of immense religious significance, hosting not only the Feast of Tabernacles but also Rosh Hashanah (the New Year on the civil calendar, 1st of Tishri) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement, 10th of Tishri), making it a period of deep spiritual reflection, repentance, and joyous celebration for the Israelites.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of communal worship and unity in faith. Just as ancient Israel assembled to honor God and dedicate His house, believers today are called to gather together (Hebrews 10:25) to celebrate His presence, give thanks, and participate in His work. It also highlights the significance of recognizing and valuing God's ordained times and seasons, seeking to align our significant life events and spiritual practices with His will and purposes.

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Cross-References

  • Leviticus 23:34 (5 votes)

    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 (4 votes)

    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 (4 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    ยถ 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 (2 votes)

    Now the Jews' feast of tabernacles was at hand.

  • Nehemiah 8:14 (2 votes)

    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: