1 Kings 9:2

That the LORD appeared to Solomon the second time, as he had appeared unto him at Gibeon.

That the LORD {H3068} appeared {H7200} to Solomon {H8010} the second time {H8145}, as he had appeared {H7200} unto him at Gibeon {H1391}.

ADONAI appeared to Shlomo a second time, as he had appeared to him in Giv'on.

the LORD appeared to him a second time, as He had appeared to him at Gibeon.

that Jehovah appeared to Solomon the second time, as he had appeared unto him at Gibeon.

Commentary

1 Kings 9:2 records a pivotal moment in King Solomon's reign: the LORD's second direct appearance to him. This significant encounter follows the completion of the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem and Solomon's own royal palace, achievements that marked the zenith of his early rule.

Context

This verse immediately follows the completion of Solomon's ambitious building projects, which had taken twenty years (1 Kings 9:1). The first appearance of the LORD to Solomon occurred much earlier, at Gibeon, where Solomon famously asked for wisdom to govern God's people instead of wealth or long life (1 Kings 3:5). That initial encounter set the stage for Solomon's reign of prosperity and justice. This second appearance is God's direct response to Solomon's prayer of dedication for the newly built Temple (1 Kings 8:22-53), affirming His presence and making clear the terms of His continued covenant with Israel and its king.

Key Themes

  • Divine Faithfulness: God demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises by responding to Solomon's prayer and dedication of the Temple. His appearance signifies His presence and attention to His people.
  • Covenant Renewal and Conditions: While affirming His presence, the LORD also reiterates the conditional nature of His blessings. The remainder of this chapter details the blessings for obedience and the severe consequences for disobedience, emphasizing the importance of adherence to God's laws (1 Kings 9:6-9).
  • Continuity of Relationship: This second appearance underscores God's active involvement in the lives of His chosen leaders and His nation. It's not a one-time interaction but an ongoing dialogue and relationship based on faithfulness.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew word for "appeared" (ื ึดืจึฐืึธื”, nir'ah) comes from the root ืจึธืึธื” (ra'ah), meaning "to see." In this context, it often implies a direct, visible, or profoundly experiential manifestation of God. It's not merely a dream or a fleeting thought, but a significant and unmistakable divine communication, confirming God's active engagement with Solomon and the future of Israel.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that God is attentive to the prayers and actions of His people. Just as He responded to Solomon's dedication, He hears and responds to our sincere efforts to honor Him. However, it also serves as a powerful reminder that blessings and divine favor are often accompanied by responsibilities and conditions. Our continued walk with God, even after significant achievements or spiritual highs, requires ongoing obedience and faithfulness. God's presence is a gift, but it also calls for reverence and adherence to His will, highlighting the importance of loving God through obedience to His commandments.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 3:5 (8 votes)

    ยถ In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.

  • 2 Chronicles 7:12 (7 votes)

    ยถ And the LORD appeared to Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for an house of sacrifice.

  • 1 Kings 11:9 (5 votes)

    ยถ And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the LORD God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice,

  • 2 Chronicles 1:7 (4 votes)

    In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee.

  • 2 Chronicles 1:12 (4 votes)

    Wisdom and knowledge [is] granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that [have been] before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.