2 Chronicles 7:6

KJV

And the priests waited on their offices: the Levites also with instruments of musick of the LORD, which David the king had made to praise the LORD, because his mercy [endureth] for ever, when David praised by their ministry; and the priests sounded trumpets before them, and all Israel stood.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the priests {H3548} waited {H5975} on their offices {H4931}: the Levites {H3881} also with instruments {H3627} of musick {H7892} of the LORD {H3068}, which David {H1732} the king {H4428} had made {H6213} to praise {H3034} the LORD {H3068}, because his mercy {H2617} endureth for ever {H5769}, when David {H1732} praised {H1984} by their ministry {H3027}; and the priests {H3548} sounded trumpets {H2690}{H2690} before them, and all Israel {H3478} stood {H5975}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The cohanim stood at their appointed stations, while the L'vi'im used the instruments that David the king had provided for making music to ADONAI in order to "give thanks to ADONAI, for his grace continues forever,"by means of the praises David had composed. Opposite them the cohanim sounded trumpets; and all Isra'el stood up.

Berean Standard Bible

The priests stood at their posts, as did the Levites with the musical instruments of the LORD, which King David had made for giving thanks to the LORD and with which David had offered praise, saying, “For His loving devotion endures forever.” Across from the Levites, the priests sounded trumpets, and all the Israelites were standing.

American Standard Version

And the priests stood, according to their offices; the Levites also with instruments of music of Jehovah, which David the king had made to give thanks unto Jehovah (for his lovingkindness endureth for ever), when David praised by their ministry: and the priests sounded trumpets before them; and all Israel stood.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
During the magnificent dedication of Solomon's Temple, 2 Chronicles 7:6 vividly portrays the highly organized and deeply reverent worship orchestrated by the priests and Levites. This verse captures a pivotal moment when, immediately following the descent of divine fire and glory, the dedicated ministers of God performed their sacred duties. It highlights the Levites' use of musical instruments, meticulously prepared by King David for the express purpose of praising the LORD's eternal mercy, while the priests sounded trumpets, and all Israel stood in unified awe and adoration before the manifest presence of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within the climactic narrative of Solomon's Temple dedication, specifically following the dramatic manifestation of God's glory. The preceding verses (2 Chronicles 7:1-3) describe fire consuming the burnt offering and sacrifices, and the glory of the LORD filling the Temple, prompting the people to fall on their faces in worship. Verse 6 then shifts focus to the meticulous, ordered response of the priestly and Levitical ministries, detailing their specific roles in leading the corporate worship that ensued. It immediately precedes the continuation of the dedication festivities, including the sacrifices offered by King Solomon and the people (2 Chronicles 7:7-10), demonstrating the structured progression from divine manifestation to human response and celebration. This passage emphasizes the continuity of worship traditions established by David, now fully realized in Solomon's reign and the completed Temple.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The dedication of Solomon's Temple was arguably the most significant religious event in ancient Israel since the construction of the Tabernacle. It marked the establishment of a permanent dwelling place for God's presence in Jerusalem, solidifying the Davidic covenant and the central role of the monarchy in Israelite worship. The roles of priests and Levites were meticulously defined by Mosaic law and further organized by King David, as detailed in books like [1 Chronicles 23-26](/1_chronicles/23 "1 Chronicles 23-26 - Organization of Levites and Priests"). Priests (descendants of Aaron) were responsible for sacrifices, trumpets, and maintaining the sanctuary, while Levites (descendants of Levi, but not Aaron) served in various capacities, including temple service, gatekeeping, and, crucially, temple music. The use of trumpets was a common practice for signaling, warfare, and, as here, for solemn religious occasions and declarations of God's presence, as seen in [Numbers 10:1-10](/numbers/10-1 "Numbers 10:1-10 - The Use of Trumpets"). Standing was a universal posture of respect, attention, and reverence in the ancient Near East, signifying a people ready to receive from or respond to their sovereign.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **ordered and intentional worship**, demonstrating that worship is not chaotic but a carefully planned and executed endeavor, reflecting God's own orderliness. The specific roles of priests and Levites, and the use of "instruments of musick... which David the king had made," point to a divinely sanctioned and historically rooted tradition of worship. Secondly, the verse highlights the **centrality of music in worship**, portraying it not as mere entertainment but as a sacred tool for praise, established by a king "after God's own heart" ([1 Samuel 13:14](/1_samuel/13-14 "1 Samuel 13:14 - A Man After God's Own Heart")). Thirdly, and most profoundly, the verse emphasizes the **enduring mercy of God (Hebrew: _chesed_)** as the foundational reason for all praise. The refrain "his mercy endureth for ever" is a recurring motif in Chronicles ([2 Chronicles 5:13](/2_chronicles/5-13 "2 Chronicles 5:13 - God's Glory Fills the Temple")) and Psalms ([Psalm 136](/psalms/136 "Psalm 136 - God's Enduring Mercy")), signifying God's steadfast love, faithfulness, and covenant loyalty, which transcends generations and forms the bedrock of Israel's relationship with Him. Finally, the collective posture of "all Israel stood" reinforces the theme of **corporate reverence and unity** in the presence of the divine.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Offices (Hebrew, _mishmeret_):** This term refers to a "charge," "duty," "guard," or "watch." In the context of the priests, it denotes their assigned functions and responsibilities within the Temple service. It emphasizes the structured, disciplined, and divinely ordained nature of their ministry, highlighting that their service was not arbitrary but followed specific guidelines and traditions passed down through generations. This word underscores the meticulous order God requires in His worship.
* **Instruments of Musick (Hebrew, _keley shir_):** Literally "vessels of song" or "tools for singing." This phrase refers to the various musical instruments used by the Levites for worship, such as harps, lyres, and cymbals, as organized by David (cf. [1 Chronicles 15:16](/1_chronicles/15-16 "1 Chronicles 15:16 - David Appoints Levites for Music")). The designation "of the LORD" signifies that these instruments were consecrated for sacred use and were integral to the divinely appointed worship, not merely for aesthetic pleasure but as a means to express devotion and praise to God.
* **Mercy (Hebrew, _chesed_):** This is a profound theological term often translated as "steadfast love," "lovingkindness," or "covenant faithfulness." It describes God's loyal, enduring, and unfailing love, particularly as demonstrated in His covenant relationship with Israel. The declaration that "his mercy endureth for ever" is a cornerstone of Israelite theology, affirming God's unchanging character and His commitment to His promises, providing an eternal basis for trust and praise, even in the face of human sin and failure.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the priests waited on their offices:"** This clause describes the priests diligently performing their designated duties. These "offices" included offering sacrifices, burning incense, maintaining the Temple, and sounding trumpets, all according to the Mosaic Law and the organizational structures established for the Temple. Their readiness and active participation signify the proper execution of their sacred responsibilities in the immediate aftermath of God's glory filling the Temple.
* **"the Levites also with instruments of musick of the LORD, which David the king had made to praise the LORD,"** This part highlights the specific role of the Levites, who were responsible for the musical aspect of Temple worship. The "instruments of musick" were not arbitrary but were specifically consecrated for the LORD, and their creation and organization were attributed to King David, emphasizing the continuity and divine authorization of this musical tradition. The explicit purpose was "to praise the LORD," underscoring music as a primary vehicle for adoration.
* **"because his mercy [endureth] for ever,"** This crucial phrase provides the theological foundation and motivation for all the praise. The eternal, unwavering _chesed_ (steadfast love/mercy) of God is the ultimate reason for their worship. It is a declaration of God's unchanging character and His covenant faithfulness, which serves as an enduring source of hope and gratitude for the people of Israel.
* **"when David praised by their ministry;"** This clause clarifies the historical connection, indicating that the Levites' musical ministry was a continuation of the worship practices established and personally engaged in by King David. It suggests that David himself, through his prophetic and poetic gifts, had utilized and perhaps even composed some of the very praises that the Levites now performed, thereby linking the current magnificent worship to the foundational legacy of Israel's greatest king.
* **"and the priests sounded trumpets before them,"** This describes another specific action of the priests, who used trumpets to punctuate the worship. The sounding of trumpets often signaled a solemn occasion, a divine presence, or a call to attention. In this context, it added to the grandeur and solemnity of the moment, perhaps signaling the beginning or a significant phase of the praise and worship.
* **"and all Israel stood."** This final clause describes the posture of the entire assembly. Standing was a universal sign of reverence, respect, and readiness to receive. In the context of the Temple dedication and the manifest glory of God, it signifies the collective awe, submission, and unified adoration of the entire nation before their sovereign God. It speaks to a moment of profound spiritual unity and recognition of God's majesty.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to enhance its meaning and impact. **Repetition** is evident in the recurring phrase "to praise the LORD" and the liturgical refrain "because his mercy endureth for ever," which emphasizes the core purpose and theological foundation of their worship. This refrain acts as a **refrain** or **chorus**, echoing a common declaration found throughout the Psalms and Chronicles, serving to unify the worship and underscore the unchanging nature of God's character. **Parallelism** is subtly present in the balanced description of the priests' and Levites' distinct but complementary roles in the worship. The verse also utilizes **symbolism**: the "instruments of musick" symbolize the beauty and order of worship, while the "trumpets" symbolize divine declaration and solemnity. The collective action of "all Israel stood" powerfully symbolizes the nation's unified reverence, awe, and submission before the manifest glory of God, transforming a physical posture into a profound spiritual statement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound theological truth underpinning 2 Chronicles 7:6 is the unwavering _chesed_ of God—His steadfast love and covenant faithfulness—which serves as the eternal wellspring of all true worship. The meticulously organized worship, from the priests' offices to the Levites' music, is not merely ritualistic but a divinely ordained response to God's enduring character. This verse teaches that our praise is not based on fleeting emotions or circumstances, but on the unchanging nature of a God whose mercy "endureth for ever." It highlights that corporate worship, characterized by order, music, and reverence, is a powerful means by which a community acknowledges and celebrates God's sovereign presence and His unfailing commitment to His people, fostering unity and a deep sense of awe.

* [Psalm 136:1](/psalms/136-1 "Psalm 136:1 - Give Thanks to the LORD, for He is Good")
* [Psalm 100:4-5](/psalms/100-4 "Psalm 100:4-5 - Enter His Gates with Thanksgiving")
* [1 Chronicles 16:34](/1_chronicles/16-34 "1 Chronicles 16:34 - Give Thanks to the LORD, for He is Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 7:6 offers timeless principles for contemporary worship and personal faith. It reminds us that worship, whether corporate or individual, should be marked by intentionality and reverence, not just spontaneity. Just as the priests and Levites were prepared and organized, so too should we approach God with a sense of purpose and respect for His holiness. The centrality of music, established by David and continued by Solomon, underscores its power to express praise and connect with the divine; we are called to use our gifts, including musical ones, to glorify God with excellence and devotion. Most importantly, the enduring refrain "because his mercy endureth for ever" anchors our worship in the unchanging character of God. In a world of shifting sands, God's steadfast love provides an immutable foundation for our hope and praise. This verse challenges us to consider our posture—both physical and spiritual—in worship, encouraging us to stand in awe, united with fellow believers, acknowledging the majesty and unfailing mercy of our God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the intentionality and organization of worship in 2 Chronicles 7:6 challenge or affirm your approach to personal and corporate worship today?**
* **In what ways can music serve as a more profound vehicle for expressing God's enduring mercy in your life or community?**
* **What does it mean for you personally that God's "mercy endureth for ever," and how does this truth impact your daily praise and trust in Him?**
* **How can we cultivate a greater sense of reverence and unity, like "all Israel stood," in our contemporary worship gatherings?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "instruments of musick of the LORD" being "which David the king had made"?**

Answer: This detail is highly significant because it connects the current worship in Solomon's Temple directly to the legacy and divine inspiration of King David. David was not only a warrior-king but also a gifted musician, psalmist, and prophet who deeply understood the role of music in worship. He meticulously organized the Levitical musicians and singers for Temple service (see [1 Chronicles 25](/1_chronicles/25 "1 Chronicles 25 - The Organization of Musicians")). The phrase "of the LORD" indicates that these instruments were consecrated for sacred use, and David's involvement underscores that their use was divinely sanctioned and part of a continuous, God-ordained tradition of praise. It highlights the importance of leadership in establishing and maintaining practices that honor God.

**Why is the phrase "his mercy endureth for ever" so prominent in this passage and elsewhere in the Old Testament?**

Answer: The phrase "his mercy endureth for ever" (Hebrew: _ki l'olam chasdo_) is a foundational theological declaration in the Old Testament, appearing frequently in Psalms (e.g., [Psalm 136](/psalms/136 "Psalm 136 - God's Enduring Mercy")) and Chronicles (e.g., [2 Chronicles 5:13](/2_chronicles/5-13 "2 Chronicles 5:13 - God's Glory Fills the Temple")). It emphasizes God's _chesed_, which is His steadfast love, covenant faithfulness, and loyal kindness. This attribute is eternal and unchanging, providing a constant and reliable basis for Israel's hope and worship. In the context of the Temple dedication, it signifies that even as the physical Temple is built, the true foundation of their relationship with God is His unwavering character, not merely the structure itself. It's a reminder that God's commitment to His people is eternal, transcending all circumstances.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 7:6 describes the magnificent, ordered worship of the Old Covenant, it inherently points forward to its ultimate fulfillment in Christ. The priests "waiting on their offices" and sounding trumpets foreshadow the perfect and eternal priesthood of Jesus, who, unlike the Levitical priests, offered a single, definitive sacrifice for sins, entering the true heavenly sanctuary once for all ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). The Levites' "instruments of musick of the LORD" praising His "mercy [endureth] for ever" finds its ultimate expression in the New Covenant, where worship is no longer confined to a physical temple or specific instruments but is offered "in spirit and truth" ([John 4:23-24](/john/4-23 "John 4:23-24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")). The "mercy" (_chesed_) of God, which was the object of their eternal praise, is most fully and perfectly revealed in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the embodiment of God's steadfast love poured out on humanity through His atoning sacrifice ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). The collective posture of "all Israel stood" in awe before God's glory prefigures the Church, the new Israel, standing redeemed and united before the resurrected Christ, the Lamb of God, who is worthy of all praise for His eternal mercy and salvation ([Revelation 5:9-10](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9-10 - The Lamb is Worthy")). Thus, the grand worship at Solomon's Temple serves as a glorious shadow of the even greater worship of God in Christ, where the ultimate High Priest leads His redeemed people in an unending song of praise for His everlasting mercy.

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

2 Chronicles 5:12

Also the Levites [which were] the singers, all of them of Asaph, of Heman, of Jeduthun, with their sons and their brethren, [being] arrayed in white linen, having cymbals and psalteries and harps, stood at the east end of the altar, and with them an hundred and twenty priests sounding with trumpets:)

2 Chronicles 7:3

And when all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the LORD upon the house, they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped, and praised the LORD, [saying], For [he is] good; for his mercy [endureth] for ever.

1 Chronicles 15:16

And David spake to the chief of the Levites to appoint their brethren [to be] the singers with instruments of musick, psalteries and harps and cymbals, sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy.

1 Chronicles 15:21

And Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, and Azaziah, with harps on the Sheminith to excel.

Psalms 106:1

¶ Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for [he is] good: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.

1 Chronicles 15:24

And Shebaniah, and Jehoshaphat, and Nethaneel, and Amasai, and Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets before the ark of God: and Obededom and Jehiah [were] doorkeepers for the ark.

Psalms 118:1

¶ O give thanks unto the LORD; for [he is] good: because his mercy [endureth] for ever.