2 Chronicles 6:14

KJV

And said, O LORD God of Israel, [there is] no God like thee in the heaven, nor in the earth; which keepest covenant, and [shewest] mercy unto thy servants, that walk before thee with all their hearts:

KJV (with Strong's)

And said {H559}, O LORD {H3068} God {H430} of Israel {H3478}, there is no God {H430} like thee in the heaven {H8064}, nor in the earth {H776}; which keepest {H8104} covenant {H1285}, and shewest mercy {H2617} unto thy servants {H5650}, that walk {H1980} before {H6440} thee with all their hearts {H3820}:

Complete Jewish Bible

and said, "ADONAI, God of Isra'el, there is no God like you in heaven or on earth. You keep covenant with your servants and show them grace, provided they live in your presence with all their heart.

Berean Standard Bible

and said: “O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like You in heaven or on earth, keeping Your covenant of loving devotion with Your servants who walk before You with all their hearts.

American Standard Version

and he said, O Jehovah, the God of Israel, there is no God like thee, in heaven, or on earth; who keepest covenant and lovingkindness with thy servants, that walk before thee with all their heart;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 6:14 captures a profound declaration by King Solomon during his prayer of dedication for the newly completed Temple in Jerusalem. This verse serves as a foundational affirmation of God's unparalleled supremacy, acknowledging Him as the singular deity in all creation. It further extols God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His steadfast mercy, specifically extended to those who serve Him with sincere and undivided devotion, setting the theological stage for the remainder of Solomon's extensive supplication.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment within King Solomon's extensive prayer of dedication for the newly constructed Temple, recorded in [2 Chronicles 6](/2_chronicles/6 "2 Chronicles 6 - Solomon's Prayer of Dedication"). Preceding this prayer, the Ark of the Covenant has been brought into the Most Holy Place, and the glory of the LORD, manifested as a cloud, has filled the Temple, preventing the priests from ministering ([2 Chronicles 5:7-14](/2_chronicles/5-7 "2 Chronicles 5:7-14 - The Ark Brought to the Temple, God's Glory Fills It")). This divine affirmation of God's presence provides the immediate backdrop for Solomon's words. His prayer, spanning the entire chapter, begins with this declaration of God's uniqueness and faithfulness, serving as the theological bedrock upon which he builds his petitions for God's continued presence, forgiveness, and blessing upon Israel. The prayer then transitions into specific requests for various scenarios of national distress, always appealing to God's covenant character.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Solomon's reign (c. 970-931 BC) marked a golden age for ancient Israel, characterized by unprecedented peace, prosperity, and the fulfillment of David's vision for a permanent dwelling place for God. The construction of the Temple was a monumental undertaking, symbolizing the centralization of Israelite worship and the physical manifestation of God's covenant presence among His people. In the broader ancient Near Eastern world, polytheism was the norm, with various nations worshipping a pantheon of gods associated with natural forces, fertility, or warfare. Solomon's declaration, "there is no God like thee," stands in stark contrast to this prevailing worldview, asserting the unique monotheistic truth of Yahweh, the God of Israel, as the one true, incomparable deity. This public affirmation was not only a theological statement but also a political and cultural declaration of Israel's distinct identity and allegiance.
* **Key Themes:** The verse encapsulates several core themes central to the book of Chronicles and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it powerfully articulates **God's Uniqueness and Supremacy**, emphasizing that Yahweh is incomparable among all gods, reigning supreme over both heaven and earth. This theme is foundational to Israelite monotheism, as seen in the repeated declarations in [Deuteronomy 4:35](/deuteronomy/4-35 "Deuteronomy 4:35 - The LORD is God; there is no other"). Secondly, the verse highlights **God's Covenant Faithfulness**, underscoring His unwavering commitment to the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David, particularly the Davidic covenant which promised an enduring dynasty ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")). Solomon's appeal rests on God's reliability to "keep covenant." Thirdly, the theme of **God's Enduring Mercy (Hesed)** is prominent, depicting God's loyal, steadfast love that goes beyond mere pity to an active, compassionate commitment to His people. This divine attribute is a recurring motif throughout the Psalms and prophetic literature, such as [Psalm 136](/psalms/136 "Psalm 136 - God's Steadfast Love Endures Forever"). Finally, the verse introduces the crucial theme of **Wholehearted Devotion**, specifying that God's covenant faithfulness and mercy are directed towards "thy servants, that walk before thee with all their hearts." This emphasizes the reciprocal nature of the covenant relationship, requiring internal sincerity and integrity, not just outward conformity, echoing the call in [Deuteronomy 6:5](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5 - Love the LORD with all your heart").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD God of Israel (Hebrew, _YHWH Elohei Yisrael'_):** This compound divine title is profoundly significant. "YHWH" (often rendered LORD in English Bibles) is the personal, covenantal name of God, revealed to Moses, signifying His self-existence and faithfulness. "Elohim" (God) is the generic term for deity, emphasizing His power and sovereignty as Creator. The addition of "of Israel" specifically identifies this supreme, covenant-keeping God as the one who has chosen Israel, entered into a unique relationship with them, and acted decisively in their history. It asserts His particular relationship with His chosen people while simultaneously affirming His universal sovereignty.
* **Keepest Covenant (Hebrew, _shomer habberit'_):** The verb "shomer" means "to guard," "to keep," "to preserve," or "to observe." When applied to God keeping covenant, it denotes His active, vigilant, and unwavering faithfulness to His promises and obligations within the covenant relationship He established with His people. This is not a passive remembrance but an active fulfillment, demonstrating His reliability and integrity. It is the basis for Israel's trust and hope.
* **Mercy (Hebrew, _ḥesed'_):** This rich theological term is often translated as "steadfast love," "loyal kindness," "covenant loyalty," or "unfailing love." It describes a quality of relationship, particularly within a covenant, that goes beyond mere affection or pity. *Ḥesed* implies a deep, enduring commitment to act benevolently towards the other party, even when they are undeserving. In God's character, it signifies His compassionate, loyal, and persistent goodness towards His people, flowing from His covenant promises, and is a cornerstone of biblical theology.
* **Walk before thee with all their hearts (Hebrew, _holekhim lefanekha bekol levavam'_):** "To walk before" (halakh lifnei) is a common biblical idiom signifying a life lived in God's presence, under His watchful eye, and in accordance with His will. It implies a lifestyle of obedience, integrity, and accountability. The crucial addition "with all their hearts" (bekol levavam) emphasizes the internal, holistic nature of this devotion. It's not just outward conformity but an inner sincerity, undivided loyalty, and complete commitment of one's will, affections, and intellect to God. This phrase underscores the personal and relational requirement for receiving God's covenant blessings.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And said, O LORD God of Israel,":** This opening sets the scene, identifying the speaker as Solomon and the recipient as the specific, covenant-making God of Israel. It immediately establishes a tone of reverent address and direct petition, acknowledging God's unique identity in relation to His chosen people.
* **"[there is] no God like thee in the heaven, nor in the earth;":** This is a powerful declaration of God's absolute uniqueness and incomparable supremacy. It asserts a radical monotheism, distinguishing Yahweh from all other deities, whether celestial or terrestrial, worshipped by surrounding nations. His power, nature, and authority transcend all creation, placing Him in a category entirely His own.
* **"which keepest covenant,":** This clause highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises. It refers to the various covenants He has established with humanity, particularly with Abraham, Moses, and David. God is not only powerful but also reliable; He actively remembers and fulfills His sworn commitments, providing a stable foundation for His people's hope and security.
* **"and [shewest] mercy unto thy servants,":** This expands on God's character, emphasizing His compassionate and loyal love (*ḥesed*). It signifies that God's faithfulness is not merely a matter of obligation but flows from a deep, benevolent commitment to His people. This mercy is specifically directed towards those who acknowledge themselves as His "servants," implying a relationship of submission and devotion.
* **"that walk before thee with all their hearts:":** This final clause specifies the condition for experiencing the fullness of God's covenant-keeping and mercy. "Walking before" implies living righteously and obediently in God's presence, while "with all their hearts" stresses the necessity of internal sincerity, undivided loyalty, and complete devotion. It's a call for holistic commitment, where outward actions are a true reflection of inner disposition.

#### Literary Devices
Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:14 employs several potent literary devices that amplify its theological impact. The most prominent is **Apostrophe**, as Solomon directly addresses God ("O LORD God of Israel"), creating an intimate and reverent tone for the entire prayer. The declaration "there is no God like thee" functions as **Hyperbole** to emphasize God's absolute uniqueness and incomparability, transcending any earthly or heavenly being. This statement also serves as a **Theological Declaration**, asserting a core tenet of Israelite monotheism against the polytheistic backdrop of the ancient world. Furthermore, the verse uses **Parallelism** in the phrase "in the heaven, nor in the earth," encompassing the totality of creation and underscoring God's universal sovereignty. The description of God "which keepest covenant, and shewest mercy" employs **Personification** of divine attributes, presenting God's faithfulness and love as active, dynamic qualities of His being.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a profound theological statement, anchoring Israel's identity and hope in the singular, covenant-keeping, and merciful character of God. It establishes that the God of Israel is not merely one among many deities, but the unique, supreme Creator and Sustainer of all things, whose power is matched only by His unwavering faithfulness to His promises and His steadfast love for His people. The condition of "walking with all their hearts" underscores the reciprocal nature of the covenant, where divine blessing is contingent upon sincere human devotion. This truth resonates throughout the biblical narrative, affirming that God's character is the ultimate ground for trust, prayer, and obedience, and that true worship flows from an understanding of His incomparable nature and His gracious disposition towards those who genuinely seek Him.

* [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "Deuteronomy 7:9 - God's Faithfulness to His Covenant")
* [Psalm 86:8](/psalms/86-8 "Psalm 86:8 - No God Like You, O Lord")
* [Jeremiah 32:18](/jeremiah/32-18 "Jeremiah 32:18 - God's Steadfast Love and Justice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's declaration in 2 Chronicles 6:14 provides a timeless template for our own relationship with God. It calls us first to an awe-filled recognition of God's absolute supremacy and uniqueness. In a world filled with competing ideologies, distractions, and false gods (whether literal or metaphorical), this verse reminds us to fix our gaze on the one true God, acknowledging His unparalleled power and authority over all creation. Furthermore, it invites us to rest in the profound assurance of His covenant faithfulness and enduring mercy. Knowing that God "keepest covenant" means we can trust His promises, even when circumstances seem bleak, and rely on His *ḥesed* as an unfailing source of grace and compassion. Finally, the verse challenges us to examine the depth of our own devotion. God desires not just outward conformity but a wholehearted commitment—a life lived in His presence with sincerity, integrity, and undivided loyalty. This means aligning our thoughts, desires, and actions with His will, not out of obligation, but from a genuine love for Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I truly acknowledge God's uniqueness and supremacy in my daily life, and how might I cultivate a deeper sense of awe for Him?**
* **How does understanding God's covenant faithfulness and enduring mercy (hesed) provide comfort and strength in times of uncertainty or struggle?**
* **What does it practically mean for me to "walk before God with all my heart," and are there areas of my life where my heart is not fully devoted to Him?**
* **How can Solomon's approach to prayer—beginning with an affirmation of God's character—inform and enrich my own prayer life?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Solomon's declaration that there is "no God like thee"?**

Answer: This declaration is a foundational statement of Israelite monotheism, distinguishing Yahweh from all other deities in the ancient Near East. In a polytheistic world where nations worshipped various gods, Solomon's words assert that the God of Israel is absolutely unique, incomparable in power, character, and authority. He is supreme over all creation, both celestial and terrestrial, and there is no other being or force that can rival Him. This truth forms the basis for Israel's exclusive worship and trust in Yahweh alone, establishing His singular sovereignty as the only true God.

**How does "walking before thee with all their hearts" relate to receiving God's mercy and covenant faithfulness?**

Answer: The phrase "walking before thee with all their hearts" describes the required posture and disposition of God's servants to fully experience His covenant faithfulness and mercy. It signifies a life of sincere, undivided, and holistic devotion to God. This isn't about earning God's favor through works, but about living in a responsive, obedient relationship that reflects genuine love and trust. God's mercy and faithfulness are freely given, but their full experience and manifestation in the lives of individuals and the nation are intrinsically linked to a heart that is fully committed to Him, as emphasized throughout the Law (e.g., [Deuteronomy 10:12](/deuteronomy/10-12 "Deuteronomy 10:12 - What the LORD Requires")). It speaks to the integrity of one's relationship with God, where outward actions stem from an inner, sincere commitment.

**Is this type of prayer unique to Solomon, or does it reflect broader biblical themes?**

Answer: While Solomon's prayer is uniquely grand in its context of the Temple dedication, its themes and declarations are deeply rooted in broader biblical tradition. The affirmation of God's uniqueness ("no God like thee") echoes Moses's declarations in [Deuteronomy 4:35](/deuteronomy/4-35 "Deuteronomy 4:35 - The LORD is God; there is no other") and the prophetic messages of Isaiah ([Isaiah 45:5-6](/isaiah/45-5 "Isaiah 45:5-6 - I am the LORD, and there is no other")). The emphasis on God's covenant faithfulness and mercy is a recurring motif throughout the Psalms ([Psalm 89:1-2](/psalms/89-1 "Psalm 89:1-2 - God's Covenant Faithfulness")) and prophetic books, forming the bedrock of Israel's relationship with God. The call for wholehearted devotion is also a consistent theme in the Law and Wisdom literature ([Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the LORD with all your heart")). Therefore, Solomon's prayer beautifully synthesizes and articulates core theological truths that permeate the entire Old Testament narrative.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:14, with its profound declaration of God's unparalleled uniqueness, covenant faithfulness, and enduring mercy, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Solomon built a magnificent temple, a physical dwelling for God's presence, Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, the very embodiment of God dwelling among humanity ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection, the True Temple")). The "no God like thee" finds its clearest manifestation in Christ, who is the "exact imprint of his nature" and the "radiance of the glory of God" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory")). He is God incarnate, uniquely revealing the Father's character and will. Furthermore, the covenant faithfulness and mercy that Solomon praised are perfectly realized in the New Covenant established through Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection. It is through His shed blood that God's promises are secured, and His *ḥesed* is poured out in boundless measure, offering forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe ([Luke 22:20](/luke/22-20 "Luke 22:20 - The New Covenant in My Blood")). The call to "walk before thee with all their hearts" is transformed and empowered by Christ; through the indwelling Holy Spirit, believers are enabled to love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to live lives of genuine devotion and obedience, no longer under the burden of the Law but by grace through faith in the One who perfectly fulfilled it ([Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3 "Romans 8:3-4 - The Law Fulfilled in Christ")). Thus, Jesus is the ultimate expression of God's uniqueness, the guarantor of His covenant, the embodiment of His mercy, and the one who enables true, wholehearted devotion.

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.