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2 Chronicles 6:12,13
And he stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands: …

2 Chronicles 34:31
And the king stood in his place, and made a covenant before the LORD, to walk after the LORD, and to keep his commandments, and his testimonies, and his statutes, with all his heart, and with all his soul, to perform the words of the covenant which are written in this book.

2 Kings 19:15-19
And Hezekiah prayed before the LORD, and said, O LORD God of Israel, which dwellestbetween the cherubims, thou art the God,even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; thou hast made heaven and earth…

in the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. This temple was not only a religious center but also a symbol of God's presence among His people. Jehoshaphat's choice to stand in the temple underscores the seriousness of the situation and his reliance on divine intervention. The temple was a place where significant national and religious decisions were made, and it was here that Jehoshaphat sought guidance and deliverance from God.

in front of the new courtyard
The "new courtyard" suggests an expansion or renovation of the temple complex, possibly undertaken during Jehoshaphat's reign or that of his predecessors. This detail highlights the ongoing importance of the temple as a dynamic center of worship and national identity. The mention of the new courtyard may also indicate a space designated for large gatherings, suitable for the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem. This setting emphasizes the public nature of Jehoshaphat's appeal to God, demonstrating transparency and communal participation in seeking divine help.

“Then Jehoshaphat stood …” (2 Chron 20:5)

• Jehoshaphat’s first response to crisis is not panic but taking his place before God. This echoes leaders like Moses who “stood between the LORD and you” (Deuteronomy 5:5) and Samuel who “stood before the LORD” (1 Samuel 12:16).

• Standing signals readiness and resolve.Ephesians 6:13–14 urges believers, “having done everything, to stand.” Jehoshaphat embodies that call.

• The verb shows initiative—he rises from private fear (v. 3) to public faith. Faith acts.

“… in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem …”

• He gathers the people; crisis is faced together (Hebrews 10:24–25).

• Public accountability keeps leaders sincere (Acts 20:20). Jehoshaphat’s prayer will be heard by everyone, fostering shared dependence on God (Psalm 34:3).

• The united assembly recalls past victories: when Solomon led “all Israel” at temple dedication (2 Chron 6:3–4). Corporate worship invites corporate deliverance.

“… in the house of the LORD …”

• The temple is the covenant meeting place (1 Kings 8:29). By standing there, Jehoshaphat appeals to God’s own promise that prayers offered “toward this place” will be heard (2 Chron 7:15–16).

• Presence in God’s house re-centers the nation on worship, not warfare (Psalm 27:4–5).

• The location highlights God as Commander; battles are won spiritually before they are fought physically (2 Chron 20:15).

“… in front of the new courtyard.”

• The “new” courtyard suggests recent repair or expansion (compare2 Kings 21:5). Spiritual renewal often parallels physical restoration; Jehoshaphat stands where fresh work has been done, symbolizing revived commitment.

• Courtyards in Scripture are spaces of access (Psalm 84:10). Standing here, he invites the nation into God’s accessible mercy.

• God meets His people in new places for old promises—just as Hezekiah later prayed in “the open square” (2 Chron 32:6–8).

2 Chronicles 20:5 paints a vivid scene of leadership under pressure. Jehoshaphat rises, gathers the nation, positions himself in God’s sanctuary, and stands at a place of renewed worship. Each phrase underscores dependence on the Lord, unity of God’s people, and confidence that God hears and delivers when His promises are claimed in faith.

Judah and Jerusalem.--So2Chronicles 20:27. Jerusalem is thus mentioned side by side with the country, as being by far the most important part of it. (See also the headings of Isaiah 1, 2)

Before the new court.--This name, "the New Court," only occurs here. It probably designates the "Great" (2Chronicles 4:9) or outer court of the Temple, in which the people assembled. Jehoshaphat stood facing the people, in front of the entrance to the Court of the Priests. Perhaps the court was calledNew, as having been recently repaired or enlarged. Syr. and Arab., "before the new gate."