2 Chronicles 6:27

KJV

Then hear thou from heaven, and forgive the sin of thy servants, and of thy people Israel, when thou hast taught them the good way, wherein they should walk; and send rain upon thy land, which thou hast given unto thy people for an inheritance.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then hear {H8085} thou from heaven {H8064}, and forgive {H5545} the sin {H2403} of thy servants {H5650}, and of thy people {H5971} Israel {H3478}, when thou hast taught {H3384} them the good {H2896} way {H1870}, wherein they should walk {H3212}; and send {H5414} rain {H4306} upon thy land {H776}, which thou hast given {H5414} unto thy people {H5971} for an inheritance {H5159}.

Complete Jewish Bible

hear in heaven, forgive the sin of your servants and of your people Isra'el - since you keep teaching them the good way by which they should live -and send down rain on your land, which you have given your people as their inheritance.

Berean Standard Bible

then may You hear from heaven and forgive the sin of Your servants, Your people Israel, so that You may teach them the good way in which they should walk. May You send rain on the land that You gave Your people as an inheritance.

American Standard Version

then hear thou in heaven, and forgive the sin of thy servants, and of thy people Israel, when thou teachest them the good way wherein they should walk; and send rain upon thy land, which thou hast given to thy people for an inheritance.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 6:27 is a pivotal part of King Solomon's profound dedication prayer for the newly completed Temple in Jerusalem. In this specific verse, Solomon intercedes on behalf of Israel, anticipating a future scenario of drought—a common consequence of national sin in the Old Testament. He appeals to God's divine mercy, asking Him to hear from heaven, forgive the sins of His people, teach them the righteous path, and restore the vital rain to the land given to them as an inheritance, thereby demonstrating God's sovereign power and covenant faithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Solomon's extensive prayer of dedication for the Temple, recorded in [2 Chronicles 6](/2_chronicles/6 "2 Chronicles 6 - Solomon's Prayer of Dedication"). Following the Ark of the Covenant's placement and the descent of God's glory, Solomon stands before the altar and offers a lengthy, seven-part prayer. Each section anticipates a specific national crisis or sin, from defeat in battle to plague, famine, and drought, and appeals to God's intervention upon the people's repentance and prayer towards the Temple. Verses [2 Chronicles 6:26-27](/2_chronicles/6-26 "2 Chronicles 6:26-27 - Prayer for Drought Relief") specifically address the scenario of drought, presenting it as a consequence of sin and framing the request for rain as conditional upon the people's turning from their wickedness and seeking God's instruction. The structure of the prayer emphasizes the Temple not as God's dwelling, but as a consecrated space where His name resides and where His people can seek His face and forgiveness.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Temple was the crowning achievement of Solomon's reign, marking a new era of centralized worship for Israel. The Temple served as the focal point of the nation's religious and political life. In ancient Israel, an agrarian society, rain was absolutely vital for survival and prosperity. Drought was not merely an inconvenience but a life-threatening disaster, often understood as a direct divine judgment for disobedience to the Mosaic Covenant, as outlined in passages like [Deuteronomy 28:23-24](/deuteronomy/28-23 "Deuteronomy 28:23-24 - Curses for Disobedience"). The cultural understanding was that God controlled the elements, and His favor or disfavor was directly reflected in the land's fertility. Solomon's prayer, therefore, reflects a deep understanding of the covenant relationship, where blessings (like rain and fertile land) were contingent upon Israel's faithfulness, and curses (like drought) were consequences of their sin. The land itself was a divine gift, an "inheritance" from God, underscoring its sacred significance.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Chronicles 6:27](/2_chronicles/6-27 "2 Chronicles 6:27 - Solomon's Prayer for Rain and Forgiveness") contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Providence**, particularly over natural elements like rain, demonstrating God's ultimate control over the prosperity and well-being of His people. Secondly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Sin and its Consequences**, portraying drought as a direct result of national disobedience, aligning with the Deuteronomic covenant's warnings. Thirdly, and most importantly, it emphasizes **Repentance and Divine Forgiveness**. Solomon's plea is predicated on the people's turning from their sin and being "taught the good way," illustrating that God's forgiveness is available to those who genuinely confess and seek to walk in His statutes. This theme is foundational to Israel's relationship with Yahweh and is echoed throughout the prophetic literature. Lastly, the verse reinforces the concept of **Covenant Faithfulness and Inheritance**, reminding God of His promise of the land to Israel and implying that their continued enjoyment of this inheritance is tied to their obedience.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Good way (Hebrew, _derekh tov_):** This phrase refers to a righteous path, a morally upright course of life that aligns with God's commandments and will. It signifies not merely intellectual knowledge of what is right, but the practical, lived out conduct of walking in obedience and integrity. The request for God to "teach them the good way" implies a need for divine instruction and guidance for a people who have strayed, emphasizing the transformative aspect of repentance.
* **Inheritance (Hebrew, _nachalah_):** This term denotes a possession or heritage, specifically the land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants as an everlasting possession. It underscores the covenantal nature of Israel's relationship with God; the land was a divinely apportioned gift, not earned, but given out of God's faithfulness. The productivity and security of this "inheritance" were intrinsically linked to Israel's obedience to the Giver.
* **Forgive (Hebrew, _salach_):** This verb means to pardon, to forgive, or to make atonement for. In the context of prayer, it signifies God's act of remitting the penalty for sin, restoring the relationship between Himself and His people. It implies a divine initiative of grace in response to human repentance, highlighting God's compassionate character and His willingness to restore those who turn to Him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then hear thou from heaven,"**: This opening clause establishes the locus of God's dwelling and the source of His divine attention. Solomon appeals to God's transcendent nature, recognizing that while the Temple is a place for prayer, God Himself is not confined to it but hears from His exalted throne in heaven. It is a plea for God to actively listen and respond to the supplication of His people.
* **"and forgive the sin of thy servants, and of thy people Israel,"**: This is the core request for divine pardon. Solomon acknowledges that the drought is a consequence of "sin" (singular, implying a collective national transgression or a general state of disobedience). He intercedes for both "thy servants" (likely referring to the leaders or those who specifically minister) and "thy people Israel" (the entire nation), emphasizing the universal need for forgiveness across all segments of society.
* **"when thou hast taught them the good way, wherein they should walk;"**: This crucial conditional clause links forgiveness to divine instruction and subsequent obedience. It's not a request for forgiveness without change, but rather a petition that God, in His mercy, would not only pardon but also actively guide His people back to the righteous path. The implication is that repentance involves both a turning *from* sin and a turning *to* God's ways, requiring His teaching and enablement.
* **"and send rain upon thy land, which thou hast given unto thy people for an inheritance."**: This is the specific physical blessing requested, the cessation of drought. The request for "rain" is a plea for the restoration of life, fertility, and prosperity, which were essential for the agricultural society of Israel. The phrase "thy land, which thou hast given unto thy people for an inheritance" serves as a powerful reminder to God of His covenant promises and His enduring commitment to His chosen people, appealing to His faithfulness to His own word.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily functions as a **Supplication** or **Intercessory Prayer**, a direct appeal to God for intervention. It employs **Conditional Clauses** ("when thou hast taught them...") to establish the prerequisites for divine action, linking human repentance and divine instruction to the granting of forgiveness and blessing. The phrase "thy servants, and of thy people Israel" utilizes a form of **Merism** or **Parallelism**, encompassing the entirety of the nation, from its leaders to its common citizens. Furthermore, **Symbolism** is evident in the request for "rain," which serves as a tangible representation of divine favor, blessing, and the restoration of life and prosperity, contrasting with the barrenness of drought, which symbolizes divine judgment. The "land" itself functions as a potent **Symbol** of God's covenant faithfulness and Israel's inherited identity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the biblical principle that sin breaks fellowship with God and can lead to tangible consequences, even in the natural world. Yet, it simultaneously highlights God's immense mercy and His readiness to forgive when His people genuinely repent and seek His instruction. The dynamic between divine judgment (drought) and divine restoration (rain) underscores God's sovereignty over creation and His active involvement in the affairs of humanity, particularly His covenant people. Solomon's prayer serves as a model for corporate and individual repentance, emphasizing that true turning to God involves not just a plea for pardon but a commitment to learning and walking in His "good way." It points to the ongoing need for divine guidance and the transformative power of God's Word in shaping righteous living.

* [Deuteronomy 30:1-3](/deuteronomy/30-1 "Deuteronomy 30:1-3 - Return to the Lord")
* [Psalm 85:4-6](/psalms/85-4 "Psalm 85:4-6 - Restore Us, O God")
* [Isaiah 30:20-21](/isaiah/30-20 "Isaiah 30:20-21 - God's Teaching and Guidance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:27 offers timeless lessons for believers today, reminding us of the enduring nature of God's character and the principles of His kingdom. It teaches us that while our disobedience may lead to spiritual or relational barrenness, God's desire is always for our restoration. Just as Israel needed to be "taught the good way," we too require ongoing divine instruction through His Word and Spirit to navigate a world filled with distractions and temptations. This verse encourages a posture of humble confession, confident intercession, and a sincere commitment to walking in God's revealed will. It assures us that when we turn to God with contrite hearts, He hears from His heavenly throne, extends forgiveness, and restores what was lost, not merely for our comfort but for His glory and for our growth in righteousness. Our prayers, like Solomon's, should not just be for relief from consequences, but for transformation of character and a renewed commitment to God's ways.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be experiencing "spiritual drought" due to unconfessed sin or a lack of obedience?**
* **How actively am I seeking God's "good way" through His Word and prayer, and am I truly committed to walking in it?**
* **What does it mean for me to appeal to God's "inheritance" in my life, recognizing His sovereign provision and promises?**
* **How does Solomon's intercessory prayer inspire me to pray for my community, nation, or others who are facing consequences of sin?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "heaven" in this verse?**

Answer: The mention of "heaven" signifies God's transcendent dwelling place, emphasizing His omnipresence and omnipotence. While the Temple was built as a place for God's name to dwell and for people to pray towards, Solomon understood that God Himself is not contained by any earthly structure. Therefore, "hear thou from heaven" is a recognition that God's authority, power, and ability to respond to prayer originate from His supreme, unconfined, and glorious throne in the heavens, far above any earthly temple. It underscores that true divine intervention comes from beyond the physical realm.

**Why is "rain" specifically requested, and what does it symbolize?**

Answer: Rain was absolutely essential for the agricultural society of ancient Israel, directly impacting their survival and prosperity. Its absence (drought) was often seen as a direct divine judgment for disobedience, as outlined in the Mosaic Covenant ([Deuteronomy 28:23-24](/deuteronomy/28-23 "Deuteronomy 28:23-24 - Curses for Disobedience")). Therefore, the request for "rain" is a plea for the restoration of physical blessing, sustenance, and life itself. Symbolically, rain represents God's favor, provision, and the renewal of His covenant blessings. Its return signifies God's forgiveness and the restoration of His relationship with His people, leading to flourishing and abundance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Chronicles 6:27, with its plea for forgiveness, divine instruction, and restoration, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Solomon's prayer anticipates the need for an intercessor, and Jesus perfectly embodies this role, serving as our great High Priest who continually intercedes for us before the Father ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Jesus Our High Priest")). The "good way" that Israel needed to be taught is fully revealed and personified in Jesus, who declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus the Way, Truth, Life")). Our forgiveness for sin, which Solomon sought through repentance and Temple prayer, is now freely offered through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross, His blood cleansing us from all unrighteousness ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing from Sin")). Furthermore, the "rain" and the "inheritance" of the land, symbolizing God's physical blessings and covenant faithfulness, are spiritually fulfilled in the New Covenant. Believers receive the "living water" of the Holy Spirit ([John 7:38-39](/john/7-38 "John 7:38-39 - Rivers of Living Water")) and an imperishable spiritual inheritance in Christ ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Incorruptible Inheritance")), far surpassing any earthly land. Thus, Jesus is the ultimate answer to Solomon's prayer, providing the perfect way, the complete forgiveness, and the enduring spiritual blessings that Israel dimly foreshadowed.

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

1 Kings 8:35

When heaven is shut up, and there is no rain, because they have sinned against thee; if they pray toward this place, and confess thy name, and turn from their sin, when thou afflictest them:

1 Kings 8:36

Then hear thou in heaven, and forgive the sin of thy servants, and of thy people Israel, that thou teach them the good way wherein they should walk, and give rain upon thy land, which thou hast given to thy people for an inheritance.

Psalms 94:12

¶ Blessed [is] the man whom thou chastenest, O LORD, and teachest him out of thy law;

Zechariah 10:1

¶ Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; [so] the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.

Jeremiah 5:24

Neither say they in their heart, Let us now fear the LORD our God, that giveth rain, both the former and the latter, in his season: he reserveth unto us the appointed weeks of the harvest.

Jeremiah 6:16

Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where [is] the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk [therein].

John 6:45

It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.