2 Chronicles 2:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Solomon explains the temple's purpose: a dedicated place for incense, the showbread, and the regular offerings appointed for Israel's worship.
What Does 2 Chronicles 2:4 Mean?
Solomon describes why he builds. The temple is not a monument to himself but a setting for daily and seasonal worship: fragrant incense, the bread set continually before God, and the burnt offerings of morning and evening, sabbath, new moon, and feast. He calls this rhythm an ordinance forever for Israel.
Worship was meant to be steady, woven into the turning of every day and season. The faithful would meet God not only on great occasions but in the unhurried, repeated acts of devotion. Every loaf and rising column of smoke pointed beyond itself, teaching a people to look for the One who would draw near and dwell among them.
2 Chronicles 2:4 in the Original Language
lechem happanim (לֶחֶם הַפָּנִים), 'shewbread' -- literally 'bread of the face,' the loaves kept continually before the LORD's presence.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 2:4
What does 2 Chronicles 2:4 mean?
Solomon explains the temple's purpose: a dedicated place for incense, the showbread, and the regular offerings appointed for Israel's worship.