2 Chronicles 2:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Chronicles 2:6
6 But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him?
Chapter Context
2 Chronicles 2 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, sacrifice, hope. Written during the post-exilic reflection on the monarchy (c. 430-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written to remind returning exiles of their temple-centered worship and Davidic heritage.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Chronicles and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Chronicles 2:6
6 But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him?
Analysis
Solomon's rhetorical question 'But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him?' expresses proper theological understanding of divine transcendence. God is omnipresent (1 Kings 8:27) - no physical structure can 'contain' Him. Yet paradoxically, God condescends to dwell among His people. The phrase 'who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him?' acknowledges human limitation while affirming God's gracious accommodation. The temple's purpose is worship (sacrifice) not housing God. This tension between transcendence and immanence finds resolution in Christ, the true temple who is fully God yet dwelling among us.
Historical Context
Solomon's letter to Hiram of Tyre (c. 967 BCE) requesting cedar demonstrates the temple project's international scope. Acknowledging God's transcendence to a pagan king served apologetic purposes, distinguishing YHWH from local deities supposedly bound to shrines.
Reflection
- How do you hold in tension God's transcendence (beyond all creation) and His immanence (dwelling with His people)?
- What does Christ's incarnation teach about God's willingness to dwell with humanity despite our unworthiness?
Word Studies
- Heaven: שָׁמַיִם (Shamayim) H8064 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Sacrifice: Deuteronomy 12:14
- Parallel theme: 2 Chronicles 1:10, 6:18, Exodus 3:11, 2 Samuel 7:18, 1 Kings 8:27, 1 Chronicles 29:14