1 Kings 8:28

KJV

Yet have thou respect unto the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplication, O LORD my God, to hearken unto the cry and to the prayer, which thy servant prayeth before thee to day:

KJV (with Strong's)

Yet have thou respect {H6437} unto the prayer {H8605} of thy servant {H5650}, and to his supplication {H8467}, O LORD {H3068} my God {H430}, to hearken {H8085} unto the cry {H7440} and to the prayer {H8605}, which thy servant {H5650} prayeth {H6419} before {H6440} thee to day {H3117}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Even so, ADONAI my God, pay attention to your servant's prayer and plea, listen to the cry and prayer that your servant is praying before you today,

Berean Standard Bible

Yet regard the prayer and plea of Your servant, O LORD my God, so that You may hear the cry and the prayer that Your servant is praying before You today.

American Standard Version

Yet have thou respect unto the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplication, O Jehovah my God, to hearken unto the cry and to the prayer which thy servant prayeth before thee this day;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 8:28 captures a pivotal moment within King Solomon's profound dedication prayer for the newly completed Temple in Jerusalem. This verse embodies Solomon's earnest plea to the Almighty God to not only perceive but actively respond to the petitions, supplications, and cries of His servant, and by extension, the entire nation of Israel. It underscores the foundational belief that the God of Israel is attentive and responsive to the sincere prayers of His people, establishing the Temple as a designated focal point for such divine interaction for generations to come.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Solomon's extensive dedication prayer for the Temple, recorded in [1 Kings 8:22-53](/1_kings/8 "1 Kings 8 - Solomon's Prayer of Dedication"). Following the Ark of the Covenant's placement in the Most Holy Place and the glorious descent of the cloud of the Lord's glory ([1 Kings 8:10-11](/1_kings/8-10 "1 Kings 8:10-11 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple")), Solomon stands before the altar, facing the assembly of Israel. His prayer is a theological masterpiece, structured as a series of conditional petitions, acknowledging God's covenant faithfulness ([1 Kings 8:23-26](/1_kings/8-23 "1 Kings 8:23-26 - God's Faithfulness to His Covenant")) and then appealing for God's attentiveness to future prayers offered towards this Temple, especially in times of national distress or repentance ([1 Kings 8:31-53](/1_kings/8-31 "1 Kings 8:31-53 - Specific Petitions in Solomon's Prayer")). Verse 28 serves as a central, overarching request for God's general responsiveness to prayer, setting the stage for the specific scenarios that follow.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction and dedication of the Temple marked a monumental epoch in Israelite history, signifying a new era of national identity and centralized worship. Prior to this, the portable Tabernacle served as the primary place of worship. The Temple, a permanent and magnificent structure, symbolized God's dwelling among His people, though Solomon wisely acknowledges that "heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you, much less this house that I have built!" ([1 Kings 8:27](/1_kings/8-27 "1 Kings 8:27 - God's Transcendence")). Culturally, prayer was a deeply ingrained practice, often accompanied by specific postures (kneeling, spreading hands towards heaven, or towards the Temple). The concept of God "hearkening" or "inclining His ear" was a common anthropomorphism expressing divine attentiveness and willingness to intervene. The king, as God's anointed representative, played a crucial role as an intercessor for the nation, a responsibility Solomon embraces fully in this prayer.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Kings 8](/1_kings/8 "1 Kings 8 - The Dedication of the Temple") is rich with theological themes that 1 Kings 8:28 contributes to. A primary theme is **God's Covenant Faithfulness**, as Solomon begins by praising God for fulfilling His promises to David ([1 Kings 8:24](/1_kings/8-24 "1 Kings 8:24 - God Fulfills His Promise to David")). This faithfulness forms the basis for Solomon's confidence that God will also listen to future prayers. Another key theme is the **Efficacy of Prayer**, emphasizing that God is not a distant deity but one who actively engages with His people's petitions. The Temple itself embodies the theme of **God's Presence Among His People**, serving as a tangible focal point for worship and prayer, even as God's omnipresence is affirmed. The repeated emphasis on "thy servant" highlights the theme of **Humility in Supplication** before the sovereign God. Finally, the conditional nature of many of Solomon's petitions underscores the theme of **Divine Justice and Mercy**, where God's response is often contingent upon Israel's obedience and repentance, as later echoed in [2 Chronicles 7:14](/2_chronicles/7-14 "2 Chronicles 7:14 - God's Promise of Healing and Forgiveness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Respect (Hebrew, _naga'_):** The KJV translation "have thou respect unto" for the Hebrew verb נָגַע (*naga'*) means "to touch, to reach, to strike." In this context, it implies God's active engagement and attention, as if His gaze or ear would "touch" or "reach" the prayer. It's not merely passive acknowledgment but an active consideration and interaction with the supplication. This word choice emphasizes a desire for God's personal and direct involvement.
* **Hearken (Hebrew, _shama'_):** The Hebrew verb שָׁמַע (*shama'*) means "to hear, listen, obey." While it literally means to perceive sound, in a theological context, especially when directed towards God, it carries the profound implication of not just hearing, but understanding, paying attention, and, crucially, acting in response. When Solomon asks God to "hearken," he is not asking for God to simply register the sound waves of his voice, but to give weight to his words and respond effectively, demonstrating His power and faithfulness.
* **Cry (Hebrew, _rinnah'_):** The Hebrew noun רִנָּה (*rinnah*) refers to a "ringing cry," which can denote a shout of joy, a song of triumph, or, as here, a lament or supplication. Its use alongside "prayer" and "supplication" intensifies the emotional register of Solomon's appeal. It suggests a heartfelt, perhaps even desperate, outpouring of the soul, indicating the urgency and depth of the people's need for divine intervention.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Yet have thou respect unto the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplication, O LORD my God,"**: This opening clause establishes the petitioner's humble posture ("thy servant") and the intimate, covenantal relationship with God ("O LORD my God"). The terms "prayer" (תְּפִלָּה, _tĕphillah_) and "supplication" (תְּחִנָּה, _tĕḥinnah_, meaning "plea for favor/mercy") are used in parallel, emphasizing the breadth and earnestness of the appeal. Solomon is asking God to actively consider and give weight to his petitions, implying a desire for divine favor and intervention.
* **"to hearken unto the cry and to the prayer,"**: This phrase reiterates and intensifies the request for God's attentiveness. "Hearken" (שָׁמַע, _shama'_) implies not just passive hearing but active listening with a view to respond. The "cry" (רִנָּה, _rinnah_) adds an emotional depth, suggesting a passionate, perhaps even desperate, appeal. The repetition of "prayer" underscores the central theme of the entire dedication: the Temple as a place where God's people can bring their petitions and be heard.
* **"which thy servant prayeth before thee to day:"**: This final clause grounds the prayer in the present moment, highlighting the significance of the Temple's dedication. It emphasizes the directness of the appeal, made "before thee" – a reference to God's presence in the newly consecrated house. It also subtly extends the scope to all future prayers offered by His servants in this designated place.

#### Literary Devices
1 Kings 8:28 employs several literary devices to enhance its impact. **Repetition** is prominent, with the terms "prayer" and "thy servant" appearing multiple times, emphasizing both the central act of petition and Solomon's humble, dependent posture before God. This repetition creates a rhythmic, insistent tone, underscoring the earnestness of the plea. **Parallelism** is also evident in the pairing of "prayer" and "supplication," and "cry" and "prayer," which functions to amplify the scope and intensity of the petitions being offered. These synonymous or complementary pairs enrich the meaning and ensure comprehensive coverage of all forms of earnest appeal. The direct address, "O LORD my God," is an example of **Apostrophe**, where the speaker directly addresses an absent or inanimate entity, in this case, God, fostering a sense of intimacy and direct communication. The overall **Pleading Tone** of the verse, characterized by humble language and fervent requests, reflects the deep dependence on divine mercy and intervention, setting the emotional and spiritual tenor for the entire dedication prayer.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 8:28 encapsulates a foundational theological truth: God is a prayer-hearing God. Solomon's earnest plea for God to "have respect" and "hearken" to his prayer affirms the divine attribute of attentiveness and responsiveness to His people. This verse underscores the purpose of the Temple not as a place to contain God, but as a consecrated space where humanity could turn towards God in expectation of His presence and intervention. It speaks to the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where communication through prayer is a vital component. The humility of "thy servant" highlights that effective prayer flows from a posture of dependence and reverence before the Almighty. This truth transcends the physical Temple, pointing to God's enduring willingness to engage with those who sincerely seek Him.

* [Psalm 65:2](/psalms/65-2 "Psalm 65:2 - God Hears Prayer")
* [Isaiah 55:6](/isaiah/55-6 "Isaiah 55:6 - Seek the Lord While He May Be Found")
* [2 Chronicles 7:14](/2_chronicles/7-14 "2 Chronicles 7:14 - God's Promise to Hear and Heal")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's prayer in 1 Kings 8:28 offers profound encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that God is not distant or indifferent, but actively inclines His ear to the cries of His people. While we no longer approach God through a physical Temple, the principle of divine attentiveness remains steadfast. This verse challenges us to approach God with the same humility ("thy servant") and earnestness ("cry and prayer") that Solomon exhibited. Our prayers, whether in moments of joy, distress, or repentance, are not uttered into an empty void but are heard by a God who desires to respond. It calls us to cultivate a consistent and sincere prayer life, trusting that our Heavenly Father is willing to "hearken" to our deepest needs and desires, and to act according to His perfect will and covenant faithfulness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Solomon's posture of "thy servant" inform our own approach to God in prayer?**
* **What does it truly mean for God to "hearken" to our prayers, beyond merely hearing them?**
* **In what ways can we cultivate the same earnestness and "cry" in our prayers that Solomon demonstrated?**
* **How does the understanding of God's attentiveness to prayer impact your confidence and persistence in seeking Him?**

### FAQ
**Why does Solomon use multiple words like "prayer," "supplication," and "cry" in this verse?**

Answer: The repetition and use of various synonyms ("prayer," "supplication," "cry") serve to emphasize the earnestness, intensity, and comprehensive nature of Solomon's appeal. "Prayer" (תְּפִלָּה, _tĕphillah_) is a general term for petition. "Supplication" (תְּחִנָּה, _tĕḥinnah_) specifically denotes a plea for favor or mercy, often implying a sense of dependence. "Cry" (רִנָּה, _rinnah_) adds an emotional dimension, suggesting a fervent, perhaps desperate, outpouring from the heart. By using these terms together, Solomon underscores the depth of his desire for God's attention and response, covering all forms of sincere human appeal to the divine. It's a rhetorical device to ensure the full weight of his request is conveyed.

**What is the significance of Solomon referring to God as "O LORD my God"?**

Answer: The phrase "O LORD my God" (יְהוָה אֱלֹהַי, _YHWH Elohay_) is deeply significant. "LORD" (YHWH) refers to God's covenant name, emphasizing His personal, relational, and faithful character, particularly in His dealings with Israel. "My God" (אֱלֹהַי, _Elohay_) signifies a personal, possessive relationship, highlighting Solomon's individual devotion and the intimate bond between the king and his divine sovereign. This combination underscores the covenantal foundation of the prayer, appealing to God's character as the faithful covenant-keeping God who has chosen Israel and established a relationship with them, and specifically with His anointed king. It's an appeal based on established relationship and divine promise, not just a general request to a distant deity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Kings 8:28, with its fervent plea for God to "hearken" to prayer from His dwelling place, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Temple, though magnificent, was but a shadow, a physical symbol of God's presence and the means of access to Him. In the New Covenant, Jesus Himself becomes the ultimate [Temple](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus, the Temple of God"), the very embodiment of God dwelling among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Our access to the Father is no longer through a physical building or a Levitical priesthood, but directly through [Christ, our great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), who has entered the true heavenly sanctuary ([Hebrews 9:24](/hebrews/9-24 "Hebrews 9:24 - Christ Entered Heaven Itself")). Solomon's desire for God to hear and respond is fully realized in the new covenant, where believers are invited to [approach the throne of grace with confidence](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence") because of Jesus' atoning sacrifice. The Holy Spirit, the "Helper," enables and empowers our prayers, interceding for us with groanings too deep for words ([Romans 8:26-27](/romans/8-26 "Romans 8:26-27 - The Spirit Helps Us in Our Weakness")). Thus, the promise of God "hearkening" to our cry, once tied to a physical structure, is now eternally secured and intimately experienced through our union with Christ, who is both the way and the truth and the life, through whom we come to the Father ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")).

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

Psalms 88:1

¶ A Song [or] Psalm for the sons of Korah, to the chief Musician upon Mahalath Leannoth, Maschil of Heman the Ezrahite. O LORD God of my salvation, I have cried day [and] night before thee:

Psalms 88:2

Let my prayer come before thee: incline thine ear unto my cry;

Daniel 9:17

Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake.

Daniel 9:19

O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name.

2 Chronicles 6:19

Have respect therefore to the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplication, O LORD my God, to hearken unto the cry and the prayer which thy servant prayeth before thee:

Psalms 4:1

¶ To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm of David. Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me [when I was] in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.

Luke 18:1

¶ And he spake a parable unto them [to this end], that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;