At that timeThis phrase indicates a specific period during Solomon's reign, likely after the completion of the temple and his palace. It suggests a time of peace and prosperity, allowing Solomon to focus on religious duties. This period is marked by Solomon's dedication to maintaining the worship practices established by his father, David.
Solomon offered burnt offerings
Burnt offerings were a central aspect of Israelite worship, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God. Solomon's participation in offering these sacrifices highlights his role not only as a king but also as a spiritual leader. This act reflects obedience to the Mosaic Law, which prescribed such offerings (Leviticus 1). It also underscores Solomon's commitment to upholding the covenant relationship with God.
to the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capitals signifies the covenant name of God, Yahweh. This emphasizes the personal and covenantal relationship between God and Israel. Solomon's offerings were directed to Yahweh, affirming the exclusive worship of the God of Israel, in contrast to the polytheistic practices of surrounding nations.
on the altar of the LORD
The altar was a sacred place for sacrifices, constructed according to divine specifications given to Moses (Exodus 27:1-8). Solomon's use of this altar signifies adherence to God's instructions and the centrality of the temple in Israel's worship. The altar represents a place of meeting between God and His people, where atonement and worship occur.
he had built
This refers to Solomon's construction of the temple, a monumental achievement that fulfilled David's desire to build a house for the Lord (2 Samuel 7:1-13). Solomon's building of the temple and its altar signifies the establishment of a permanent place for God's presence among His people, fulfilling the promise of a centralized location for worship.
in front of the portico
The portico, or porch, was an architectural feature of the temple, serving as an entrance to the holy place. Its mention here indicates the specific location of the altar, emphasizing the order and design of the temple complex. The portico's position highlights the transition from the outer court to the inner sanctum, symbolizing the approach to God's presence.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
SolomonThe son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, he is credited with constructing the First Temple in Jerusalem.
2.
The LORD (Yahweh)The covenantal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, representing the God of Israel who is worshiped and revered.
3.
Burnt OfferingsA type of sacrifice in the Old Testament where the entire offering is consumed by fire, symbolizing complete devotion and surrender to God.
4.
The Altar of the LORDA sacred place for sacrifices, built by Solomon in front of the Temple's portico, signifying a place of worship and atonement.
5.
The PorticoAn architectural feature of the Temple, serving as an entrance or porch area, symbolizing the transition from the secular to the sacred.
Teaching Points
Commitment to WorshipSolomon's regular offerings demonstrate a commitment to worship and obedience to God's commands. As believers, we are called to prioritize worship in our lives, dedicating time and resources to honor God.
Symbolism of SacrificeThe burnt offerings symbolize total devotion and surrender to God. In our lives, we are encouraged to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, fully committed to God's will.
The Role of the TempleThe Temple served as a central place of worship and community for Israel. Today, the Church serves a similar role, and believers are called to be active participants in their faith communities.
Transition from Old to New CovenantWhile Solomon's sacrifices were necessary under the Old Covenant, they point forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Understanding this transition helps us appreciate the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 8:12?
2.How does Solomon's offering practice in 2 Chronicles 8:12 reflect obedience to God?
3.What can we learn about worship from Solomon's actions in 2 Chronicles 8:12?
4.How does 2 Chronicles 8:12 connect with the sacrificial laws in Leviticus?
5.In what ways can we prioritize worship in our daily lives like Solomon?
6.How does Solomon's dedication inspire us to maintain our commitments to God today?
7.What significance does Solomon's offering in 2 Chronicles 8:12 hold in biblical history?
8.How does 2 Chronicles 8:12 reflect Solomon's dedication to God?
9.What does 2 Chronicles 8:12 reveal about the religious practices of ancient Israel?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Chronicles 8?
11.Why is the altar of burnt offering significant?
12.2 Chronicles 8:4 says Solomon built Tadmor (Palmyra) in the wilderness--what historical or archaeological proof exists for such an extensive project at that location?
13.2 Chronicles 3:8 - How did Solomon acquire and transport enough gold to overlay the inner sanctuary entirely?
14.Which high places did Solomon visit?What Does 2 Chronicles 8:12 Mean
At that time• Scripture ties this moment to the period immediately after the temple’s dedication (2 Chronicles 7:1–3).
• “At that time” signals continuity: Solomon is still walking in the fresh glow of God’s fire-filled approval (1 Kings 9:3).
• It reminds us that obedience has a window—when God moves, He calls for a timely response (cf.Psalm 95:7-8).
Solomon offered burnt offerings• Burnt offerings were wholly consumed, picturing total consecration (Leviticus 1:3-9).
• Solomon personally directs worship, modeling leadership that puts God first (2 Chronicles 7:4-5;1 Kings 8:62-64).
• His action fulfills God’s earlier charge to kings to maintain sacrificial worship (Deuteronomy 17:18-19).
to the LORD• The offering’s focus is unmistakable: “to the LORD,” Yahweh, not to political allies or personal ambition (Exodus 20:3).
• True worship targets the covenant God alone (Deuteronomy 12:5-6), safeguarding the nation from idolatry (1 Kings 11:4).
• By naming the LORD twice in one sentence, the text stresses relationship over ritual (Psalm 96:8).
on the altar of the LORD• The altar had been sanctified by divine glory earlier (2 Chronicles 7:1).
• Worship must occur where God prescribes, echoingExodus 27:1-8.
• Using this specific altar unites the king and people under one authorized center of worship (Deuteronomy 12:13-14).
he had built• Solomon’s labor illustrates stewardship: the king invests resources to enable national obedience (1 Kings 6:37-38).
• Building for God precedes blessing from God (2 Samuel 7:13;Haggai 1:8).
• The phrase also hints at accountability—because he built it, he must use it rightly (Luke 12:48).
in front of the portico• The portico (temple porch) faced east toward the people; offerings here were visible acts of public faith (2 Chronicles 29:7).
• The location bridges the sacred inner court and the assembled congregation, drawing everyone into worship (Psalm 100:4).
• Standing “in front” underscores accessibility: God invites His people to approach through sanctioned sacrifice (Hebrews 10:19-22).
summary2 Chronicles 8:12 records Solomon’s timely, wholehearted, God-directed worship on the very altar he constructed before the temple’s porch. The verse showcases a leader who, in the afterglow of divine approval, publicly models total consecration, keeps worship centered on the LORD alone, and does so in the exact place God ordained—inviting the nation to live in the same obedient, covenant joy.
(c)
REGULATION OF THE TEMPLE WORSHIP(2Chronicles 8:12-16).
This whole section corresponds to the single verse,1Kings 9:25, which the chronicler has paraphrased in2Chronicles 8:12-13, and extended by the addition of further details in2Chronicles 8:14-15.
(12)Then.--After the consecration of the Temple. . . .
Verses 12, 13. - Parallel in compressed form
1 Kings 9:25. After a certain rate every day; Hebrew,
וּבִדְבַר־יום; the probable mean
ing is
, according to the fixed appointment of day after day (
Exodus 23:14;
Exodus 29:23, 38;
Numbers 28:3;
Deuteronomy 16:16).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
At that timeאָ֣ז(’āz)Adverb
Strong's 227:At that time, place, thereforeSolomonשְׁלֹמֹ֛ה(šə·lō·mōh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8010:Solomon -- David's son and successor to his throneofferedהֶעֱלָ֧ה(he·‘ĕ·lāh)Verb - Hifil - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5927:To ascend, in, activelyburnt offeringsעֹל֖וֹת(‘ō·lō·wṯ)Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 5930:Whole burnt offeringto the LORDלַיהוָ֑ה(Yah·weh)Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068:LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israelonעַ֚ל(‘al)Preposition
Strong's 5921:Above, over, upon, againstthe altarמִזְבַּ֣ח(miz·baḥ)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4196:An altarof the LORDיְהוָ֔ה(Yah·weh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068:LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israelhe had builtבָּנָ֖ה(bā·nāh)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1129:To buildin frontלִפְנֵ֥י(lip̄·nê)Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct
Strong's 6440:The faceof the portico.הָאוּלָֽם׃(hā·’ū·lām)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 197:A vestibule
Links
2 Chronicles 8:12 NIV2 Chronicles 8:12 NLT2 Chronicles 8:12 ESV2 Chronicles 8:12 NASB2 Chronicles 8:12 KJV
2 Chronicles 8:12 BibleApps.com2 Chronicles 8:12 Biblia Paralela2 Chronicles 8:12 Chinese Bible2 Chronicles 8:12 French Bible2 Chronicles 8:12 Catholic Bible
OT History: 2 Chronicles 8:12 Then Solomon offered burnt offerings to Yahweh (2 Chron. 2Ch iiCh ii ch 2 chr 2chr)