2 Chronicles 6:13
For Solomon had made a brazen scaffold, of five cubits long, and five cubits broad, and three cubits high, and had set it in the midst of the court: and upon it he stood, and kneeled down upon his knees before all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands toward heaven,
2 Chronicles 6:13 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse describes an important moment in the life of King Solomon, who was known for his wisdom and leadership in ancient Israel. The brazen scaffold mentioned in the verse was a platform that Solomon had specifically made for the purpose of addressing and leading the congregation of Israel in prayer. The dimensions of the scaffold signify its significance in the context of the ceremony. Standing five cubits long, five cubits broad, and three cubits high, the scaffold would have been a prominent structure within the court, drawing the attention of all those present. Solomon's act of kneeling down and spreading his hands towards heaven symbolizes his humility, reverence, and dedication to God. By leading the congregation in prayer in this manner, Solomon demonstrates his role as a spiritual leader, guiding the people in seeking God's blessing and guidance. This scene also highlights the importance of prayer and worship in the life of a king and the nation as a whole.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse where Solomon builds the brazen scaffold and prays before the congregation of Israel is significant in understanding the importance of humility and reverence in worship. The act of kneeling down before God signifies submission and reverence, as kneeling is a posture of humility and surrender in many cultures. By spreading forth his hands towards heaven, Solomon demonstrates his openness, vulnerability, and reliance on God. This gesture symbolizes reaching out in prayer and supplication to God, acknowledging Him as the ultimate authority. The brazen scaffold being set in the midst of the court symbolizes the centrality of worship and prayer in the community, highlighting the importance of gathering together to seek God's guidance and blessing. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of humility, reverence, and communal worship in approaching God in prayer.
2 Chronicles 6:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
(for Solomon had made a brazen scaffold, five cubits long, and five cubits broad, and three cubits high, and had set it in the midst of the court; and upon it he stood, and kneeled down upon his knees before all the assembly of Israel, and spread forth his hands toward heaven;)
World English Bible
(for Solomon had made a bronze scaffold, five cubits long, and five cubits broad, and three cubits high, and had set it in the midst of the court; and on it he stood, and kneeled down on his knees before all the assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands toward heaven;)
Douay-Rheims
For Solomon had made a brazen scaffold, and had set it in the midst of the temple, which was five cubits long, and five cubits broad, and three cubits high: and he stood upon it: then kneeling down in the presence of all the multitude of Israel, and lifting up his hands towards heaven,
Geneva Bible (1599)
(For Salomon had made a brasen skaffold and set it in the middes of the court, of fiue cubites long, and fiue cubites broade, and three cubites of height, and vpon it he stoode, and kneeled downe vpon his knees before all the Congregation of Israel, and stretched out his hands toward heauen)