2 Chronicles 6:1

Authorized King James Version

Then said Solomon, The LORD hath said that he would dwell in the thick darkness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָ֖ז
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#2
אָמַ֔ר
Then said
to say (used with great latitude)
#3
שְׁלֹמֹ֑ה
Solomon
shelomah, david's successor
#4
יְהוָ֣ה
The LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#5
אָמַ֔ר
Then said
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
לִשְׁכּ֖וֹן
that he would dwell
to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)
#7
בָּֽעֲרָפֶֽל׃
in the thick darkness
gloom (as of a lowering sky)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection