1 Kings 8:47
Yet if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and repent, and make supplication unto thee in the land of them that carried them captives, saying, We have sinned, and have done perversely, we have committed wickedness;
1 Kings 8:47 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 2 Chronicles in the Bible speaks about the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness from God. It emphasizes the idea that even when the Israelites were carried away as captives due to their sins, they could still turn back to God, confess their wrongdoings, and ask for His mercy. The verse highlights the significance of acknowledging one's sins and expressing remorse for them. It shows that no matter how far one may have strayed from God, there is always a chance for redemption through sincere repentance. By making supplication and admitting their sins, the Israelites were demonstrating humility and a willingness to change their ways. This serves as a powerful reminder for readers today that no matter what mistakes they have made, they can always seek forgiveness and start afresh with God.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, we see a powerful message of repentance and forgiveness. The concept of 'bethinking oneself' signals a turning back to God and acknowledging wrongdoing. The act of repentance and making supplication demonstrates a humble posture before God, recognizing their sins and asking for forgiveness. The acknowledgment of sin as perversity and wickedness emphasizes the seriousness of their actions and the need for genuine remorse. Through this process, there is an opportunity for reconciliation with God, despite being in a foreign land. This verse illustrates the mercy and grace of God, willing to forgive those who sincerely repent and seek His forgiveness. It highlights the importance of acknowledging our sins, seeking forgiveness, and turning back to God in order to experience true reconciliation and restoration.
1 Kings 8:47 in other translations
American Standard Version
yet if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they are carried captive, and turn again, and make supplication unto thee in the land of them that carried them captive, saying, We have sinned, and have done perversely, we have dealt wickedly;
World English Bible
yet if they shall repent in the land where they are carried captive, and turn again, and make supplication to you in the land of those who carried them captive, saying, ‘We have sinned, and have done perversely; we have dealt wickedly;’
Douay-Rheims
Then if they do penance in their heart, in the place of captivity, and being converted, make supplication to thee in their captivity, saying: We have sinned, we have done unjustly, we have committed wickedness:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Yet if they turne againe vnto their heart in the lande (to the which they be caryed away captiues) and returne and pray vnto thee in the lande of them that caryed them away captiues, saying, We haue sinned, we haue transgressed, and done wickedly,