2 Chronicles 6:39

KJV

Then hear thou from the heavens, [even] from thy dwelling place, their prayer and their supplications, and maintain their cause, and forgive thy people which have sinned against thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then hear {H8085} thou from the heavens {H8064}, even from thy dwelling {H3427} place {H4349}, their prayer {H8605} and their supplications {H8467}, and maintain {H6213} their cause {H4941}, and forgive {H5545} thy people {H5971} which have sinned {H2398} against thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

then, from heaven, from where you live, hear their prayer and pleas, uphold their cause, and forgive your people who have sinned against you.

Berean Standard Bible

then may You hear from heaven, Your dwelling place, their prayer and petition, and may You uphold their cause. May You forgive Your people who sinned against You.

American Standard Version

then hear thou from heaven, even from thy dwelling-place, their prayer and their supplications, and maintain their cause, and forgive thy people who have sinned against thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 6:39 is a pivotal segment of King Solomon's dedicatory prayer for the First Temple in Jerusalem, delivered during its consecration. This verse encapsulates a fervent and comprehensive plea to God, asking Him to hear the prayers and earnest supplications of His people from His exalted heavenly dwelling, to uphold their righteous cause in times of distress, and to graciously grant forgiveness for their sins. It profoundly anticipates the future spiritual and physical needs of the Israelite nation, establishing a divine precedent for repentance, justice, and mercy within the framework of their covenant relationship with Yahweh.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within King Solomon's extensive and profound prayer of dedication for the newly constructed Temple in Jerusalem, meticulously recorded in [2 Chronicles 6](/2_chronicles/6 "2 Chronicles 6 - Solomon's Prayer of Dedication"). Following seven years of meticulous construction, the Temple was consecrated as the central, albeit symbolic, locus of worship for the entire nation of Israel. Solomon stands before the altar, stretching out his hands toward heaven, not only acknowledging God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises but also articulating a series of prescient petitions for various future scenarios that the nation might face. Specifically, [2 Chronicles 6:28-40](/2_chronicles/6-28-40 "2 Chronicles 6:28-40 - Solomon's Petitions for Israel in Distress") forms a distinct section where Solomon systematically asks God to hear the prayers of His people when they suffer from devastating famine, debilitating plague, destructive war, or when they are taken captive into exile and subsequently confess their sins. Throughout this comprehensive prayer, a consistent theological emphasis is placed on the truth that while the Temple serves as a physical focal point for God's manifest presence among His people, God Himself utterly transcends any earthly structure, eternally residing in the heavens.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The dedication of the First Temple, occurring during Solomon's reign (c. 970-931 BC), marked an epochal moment in Israelite history, irrevocably solidifying Jerusalem as both the religious and political capital. The Temple was universally considered the physical manifestation of God's dwelling among His people, the sacred space where sacrifices were offered, and prayers were directed. However, a sophisticated aspect of Israel's theology, clearly articulated by Solomon himself in [1 Kings 8:27](/1_kings/8-27 "1 Kings 8:27 - God Cannot Be Contained by the Temple"), maintained God's transcendence, acknowledging that He could not be contained by any building, however magnificent. The prevailing cultural understanding of prayer involved turning towards the Temple or Jerusalem, even when in distant lands or exile, as a symbolic and deeply meaningful act of directing one's heartfelt supplications to God's chosen dwelling place. This verse profoundly reflects the intricacies of the Mosaic covenantal relationship, where God's blessings and judgments were inextricably linked to Israel's obedience or disobedience, thereby necessitating a divinely ordained mechanism for repentance, restoration, and the maintenance of that sacred bond.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Chronicles 6:39](/2_chronicles/6-39 "2 Chronicles 6:39 - Solomon's Prayer for Forgiveness and Justice") significantly contributes to several major theological and narrative themes woven throughout the book of Chronicles and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it powerfully underscores **Divine Accessibility and Omnipresence**, emphasizing that God is not confined to the earthly Temple but hears prayers from His exalted, uncontainable throne in heaven. This demonstrates His profound transcendence while simultaneously affirming His immanent ability and willingness to respond actively to human cries. Secondly, a paramount theme is **God's Forgiveness**, as Solomon, with remarkable foresight, recognizes the inherent sinfulness of humanity and the absolute necessity of divine pardon for both national and individual restoration. This foundational truth profoundly highlights God's merciful and gracious character, a recurring and central motif in the Chronicler's theological narrative. Thirdly, the earnest plea to "maintain their cause" speaks directly to **Divine Justice and Advocacy**, expressing a profound hope that God will intervene decisively on behalf of His people, bringing vindication when they are wronged or when they genuinely repent and seek His face. Finally, the entire prayer, and this verse in particular, profoundly underscores **The Power of Prayer** as the critical and divinely appointed means by which humanity can connect with God, seek His intervention, confess sin, and receive His boundless mercy, presenting it as the indispensable pathway to national and individual restoration and the enduring maintenance of the covenant.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **dwelling place (Hebrew, _yâshab'_ / _mâkôwn'_):** The Hebrew word `yâshab` (H3427) is a primitive root meaning "to sit down," "to dwell," or "to remain," implying an established presence. `Mâkôwn` (H4349), derived from another root meaning "to fix," refers to a "fixture," "basis," or "established place," especially an abode. In this context, the combination of these concepts reinforces the idea of God's secure, eternal, and unshakeable throne in the heavens, from which He exercises His absolute sovereignty. It emphasizes that while the Temple is a place of His manifest presence and a focal point for worship, His ultimate residence and authority are unconfined and transcendent, firmly established in the celestial realm.
* **maintain their cause (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** The Hebrew word `mishpâṭ` (H4941) is rich in meaning, broadly encompassing "justice," "judgment," "right," or "verdict." Here, it signifies God's active engagement in doing what is right on behalf of His people, upholding their righteous standing, intervening to correct injustice, or vindicating them against their adversaries. It speaks powerfully to God's role as a righteous judge who actively defends and champions His covenant people, ensuring that justice prevails according to His divine standards.
* **forgive (Hebrew, _çâlach'_):** This verb `çâlach` (H5545) is almost exclusively used in the Old Testament to describe God's unique act of forgiving sin. It implies a gracious, sovereign act of pardon, a complete removal of guilt, and a full restoration of the relationship that was broken by transgression. Unlike human forgiveness, divine `çâlach` is absolute, efficacious, and leads to genuine reconciliation, demonstrating God's profound mercy and willingness to restore His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then hear thou from the heavens, [even] from thy dwelling place":** This opening clause profoundly establishes God's transcendence, omnipotence, and omnipresence. Solomon acknowledges that God's true and ultimate abode is in the heavens, a realm far beyond and unconfined by the physical Temple. The fervent plea to "hear" emphasizes God's active attentiveness and engaged responsiveness to His creation, particularly His covenant people, from His exalted and sovereign throne. It underscores His ability to perceive and respond to every prayer, regardless of its origin.
* **"their prayer and their supplications":** This phrase meticulously highlights the dual nature of the people's appeal to God. "Prayer" (תְּפִלָּה, _tefillah_) serves as a general term for any petition or communication with God, encompassing a broad range of requests. In contrast, "supplications" (תְּחִנָּה, _tĕḥinnah_) implies a more earnest, humble, and often desperate plea for favor or mercy, typically offered in a state of distress, need, or profound humility. The pairing underscores the urgency, sincerity, and comprehensive nature with which the people are expected to approach God, laying bare their deepest needs and desires.
* **"and maintain their cause":** This profound petition calls upon God to act not merely as a passive listener but as an active, righteous judge and advocate for His people. It is a fervent request for divine intervention to uphold justice, defend the innocent, or vindicate those who are wronged, particularly when they turn to Him in genuine repentance and distress. It reflects the deep-seated hope and conviction that God will actively intervene to set things right according to His perfect standard of righteousness, ensuring His people receive what is just and equitable.
* **"and forgive thy people which have sinned against thee":** This final clause is a crucial and humble recognition of the inherent and pervasive reality of human sinfulness, coupled with an absolute reliance on the necessity of divine pardon. Solomon, with prophetic insight, understands that despite their covenant relationship, the people will inevitably stray and sin. The earnest request for forgiveness (סָלַח, _salach_) signifies a plea for God's boundless grace and mercy to restore the broken relationship, avert the deserved consequences of their transgressions, and re-establish them in His favor.

#### Literary Devices
The verse masterfully employs several literary devices to amplify its theological depth and emotional resonance. **Parallelism** is prominently featured in the pairing of "their prayer and their supplications," which serves to emphasize the comprehensive and earnest nature of the people's appeals to God, reinforcing the idea of a complete outpouring of their hearts. **Anthropomorphism** is evident in the phrase "hear thou from the heavens," where human senses (hearing) are attributed to God. This device makes God's responsiveness relatable and comprehensible to the audience, while simultaneously maintaining and underscoring His divine transcendence and otherness. The mention of "heavens" and "thy dwelling place" can be interpreted as a form of **Merism**, where two complementary terms are used to express a totality – in this case, encompassing both God's ultimate, uncontainable, celestial abode and His chosen place of manifest presence and interaction with humanity. Fundamentally, the entire verse functions as a direct **Plea** or **Supplication**, a fervent and earnest address from King Solomon to God, characterized by its reverent tone and the comprehensive nature of its requests for divine intervention, justice, and profound mercy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly articulates core theological truths about God's immutable character and His dynamic relationship with humanity. It underscores God's absolute sovereignty and transcendence, affirming that He is not limited by human constructs like the Temple, yet He remains intimately involved, attentive, and responsive to the cries of His people "from the heavens, even from thy dwelling place." The emphasis on God's willingness to "maintain their cause" highlights His unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness, revealing Him as the ultimate arbiter, defender, and advocate for His covenant people. Most profoundly, the earnest plea to "forgive thy people which have sinned against thee" unveils God's boundless mercy and His readiness to pardon those who genuinely repent and turn to Him. This establishes a fundamental and enduring pattern for the covenant relationship: human sin necessitates divine forgiveness, which is graciously granted upon sincere prayer, humble confession, and a turning away from transgression. The verse thus serves as a foundational statement on the efficacy of prayer, the absolute necessity of repentance, and the certainty of God's just, merciful, and restorative response.

* [Psalm 65:2](/psalms/65-2 "Psalm 65:2 - God Hears Prayer")
* [Psalm 103:3](/psalms/103-3 "Psalm 103:3 - God Forgives All Your Sins")
* [Psalm 9:7-8](/psalms/9-7-8 "Psalm 9:7-8 - God Judges the World in Righteousness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:39 offers enduring and profoundly relevant truths that resonate deeply with believers today, transcending its historical context. It provides immense comfort and confidence, assuring us that, just as God attentively heard Solomon's heartfelt appeal from His exalted heavenly throne, He remains intimately attentive and responsive to our prayers, regardless of our geographical location or personal circumstances. This divine attentiveness invites us to approach God with boldness, sincerity, and unwavering faith, knowing that He is not a distant or indifferent deity but one who is intimately involved in the intricate details of our lives. The verse also serves as a stark and necessary reminder of the persistent reality of human sin and the absolute, non-negotiable necessity of genuine confession and humble repentance. God's readiness to forgive is a consistent and glorious theme throughout all of Scripture, but it is always contingent upon our humble acknowledgment of wrongdoing and our sincere turning back to Him in faith. Furthermore, the petition for God to "maintain their cause" instills deep trust in His divine justice. In a world often marked by pervasive injustice, profound suffering, and inexplicable hardship, this divine promise provides an anchor of hope, assuring us that God will ultimately vindicate His people and sovereignly work all things according to His perfect, righteous will. Ultimately, this verse teaches us that earnest, persistent prayer, coupled with genuine, contrite repentance, is the divinely appointed pathway to receiving God's boundless mercy, complete forgiveness, and holistic restoration in our individual lives and within our collective communities.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Solomon's profound understanding of God's transcendence and immanence inform and deepen your own personal view and practice of prayer?**
* **In what specific ways do you need to humbly confess sin and earnestly seek God's forgiveness in your life today, fully trusting in His readiness to pardon and restore?**
* **How does the assurance that God will "maintain your cause" profoundly encourage you in times of injustice, adversity, or hardship, and how might this influence your actions and responses in such situations?**

### FAQ
**Why does Solomon ask God to hear from "heavens" if the Temple is God's dwelling place?**

Answer: This question highlights a crucial and sophisticated theological distinction between God's transcendence and His immanence. While the Temple was indeed consecrated as the specific, earthly place where God chose to manifest His presence among His people and receive their worship, it was never understood as containing God in His totality or limiting His omnipresence. Solomon himself articulates this profound truth with remarkable clarity in [1 Kings 8:27](/1_kings/8-27 "1 Kings 8:27 - God Cannot Be Contained by the Temple"), stating, "But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded?" The "heavens" represent God's ultimate, unconfined, and eternal dwelling place, His throne of universal sovereignty and absolute authority. Therefore, Solomon's prayer profoundly acknowledges God's omnipresence and supreme authority, appealing to Him from His true, eternal abode, even as the people direct their prayers towards the earthly Temple, which served as a sacred symbol and focal point for His manifest presence and covenantal relationship with Israel.

**What does "maintain their cause" mean in practical terms for the Israelites?**

Answer: For the Israelites, the petition to "maintain their cause" implied God acting as their divine Judge, Advocate, and Defender. In practical, tangible terms, this meant God would actively intervene on their behalf in a myriad of situations:
1. **Vindication in Disputes:** If they were wronged, falsely accused, or unjustly treated, God would ensure that divine justice was served and their righteousness upheld.
2. **Deliverance from Oppression:** When facing powerful enemies or oppressive foreign powers, God would miraculously defend them, grant decisive victory, and secure their liberation.
3. **Restoration from Calamity:** In times of devastating famine, debilitating plague, or other national disasters, God would intervene to alleviate suffering, restore prosperity, and bring healing, especially when the people humbled themselves and repented.
4. **Upholding Righteousness:** God would actively ensure that the righteous were upheld, that His covenant principles were maintained within the nation, and that moral order was preserved.
It was a comprehensive plea for God to actively engage in their national and individual affairs, ensuring that His perfect justice prevailed and that His people's legitimate rights, well-being, and covenant standing were protected according to His righteous and sovereign will.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Solomon's profound prayer in [2 Chronicles 6:39](/2_chronicles/6-39 "2 Chronicles 6:39 - Solomon's Prayer for Forgiveness and Justice"), with its earnest pleas for divine hearing, unwavering justice, and gracious forgiveness, finds its ultimate, most complete, and perfect fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While Solomon prayed towards a physical Temple as the dwelling place of God's manifest presence, Jesus Himself declared His own body to be the true and ultimate Temple, famously stating, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" ([John 2:19](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus, the True Temple")), referring prophetically to His crucifixion and resurrection. Through Christ, the very need for a physical, localized structure to access God is eternally transcended, as believers now possess direct, unhindered access to the Father through Him, by the one Spirit ([Ephesians 2:18](/ephesians/2-18 "Ephesians 2:18 - Access to the Father Through Christ")). The request for God to "maintain their cause" is perfectly and eternally realized in Christ, who is our ultimate, righteous Advocate with the Father ([1 John 2:1](/1_john/2-1 "1 John 2:1 - Christ Our Advocate")). He perpetually intercedes for us from His exalted position at the right hand of God in heaven, ensuring that our cause is upheld before God's righteous throne ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")). Most significantly, Solomon's fervent plea for God to "forgive thy people which have sinned against thee" is fully and gloriously answered in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. His shed blood is the singular, sufficient, and eternal basis for the forgiveness of sins, offering complete pardon, radical cleansing, and perfect reconciliation to all who believe and confess their sin ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Redemption and Forgiveness in Christ"); [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without Shedding of Blood There Is No Forgiveness")). Thus, the profound hope and earnest longing expressed in Solomon's prayer are not merely a historical petition but a powerful prophetic anticipation of the boundless grace, transformative truth, and ultimate redemption revealed in the person and finished work of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

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

Zechariah 1:15

And I am very sore displeased with the heathen [that are] at ease: for I was but a little displeased, and they helped forward the affliction.

Zechariah 1:16

Therefore thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem.

2 Chronicles 6:35

Then hear thou from the heavens their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause.

Micah 7:18

Who [is] a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth [in] mercy.

Micah 7:20

Thou wilt perform the truth to Jacob, [and] the mercy to Abraham, which thou hast sworn unto our fathers from the days of old.

Psalms 25:18

Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins.