2 Chronicles 6:32
Moreover concerning the stranger, which is not of thy people Israel, but is come from a far country for thy great name's sake, and thy mighty hand, and thy stretched out arm; if they come and pray in this house;
2 Chronicles 6:32 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the importance of inclusion and acceptance of individuals from different backgrounds is highlighted. It speaks to the welcoming of strangers who are not part of the Israelite community, but who come from distant lands to pray in the house of worship. The verse emphasizes the significance of unity and the acknowledgement that all individuals, regardless of their origins, are welcome to partake in prayer and worship. It highlights the power of God's name and his mighty hand in bringing people together, regardless of their differences. This verse promotes the idea that all individuals, regardless of where they come from, can find solace and connection in prayer. It serves as a reminder of the universal nature of faith and the importance of unity and acceptance within religious communities.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of the verse regarding strangers who come to pray in the house of the Lord, it is important to note the emphasis on inclusivity and the welcoming of individuals from all nations to worship. The phrase "which is not of thy people Israel" highlights the notion that God's love and grace extends beyond the boundaries of ethnicity or nationality. The mention of coming "for thy great name's sake, and thy mighty hand, and thy stretched out arm" serves as a reminder of God's power and sovereignty, which draws people from far and wide to seek Him in prayer. This verse emphasizes the universal nature of God's invitation to worship, extending beyond cultural or geographical differences. Through this lens, we can understand the verse as a call to embrace diversity and unity in worship, recognizing that all are welcome in God's presence regardless of their background or origins.
2 Chronicles 6:32 in other translations
American Standard Version
Moreover concerning the foreigner, that is not of thy people Israel, when he shall come from a far country for thy great name's sake, and thy mighty hand, and thine outstretched arm; when they shall come and pray toward this house:
World English Bible
“Moreover concerning the foreigner, who is not of your people Israel, when he shall come from a far country for your great name’s sake, and your mighty hand, and your outstretched arm; when they shall come and pray toward this house:
Douay-Rheims
If the stranger also, who is not of thy people Israel, come from a far country, for the sake of thy great name, and thy strong hand, and thy stretched out arm, and adore in this place:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Moreouer, as touching ye stranger which is not of thy people Israel, who shall come out of a farre countrey for thy great Names sake, and thy mighty hande, and thy stretched out arme: when they shall come and pray in this house,