2 Chronicles 6:9 Meaning and Explanation
“Notwithstanding thou shalt not build the house; but thy son which shall come forth out of thy loins, he shall build the house for my name.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →David will not build, but his son—Solomon—will complete the temple for God's name.
The Context of 2 Chronicles 6:9
God's explicit word to David: his son, not he, will build the temple.
What Does 2 Chronicles 6:9 Mean?
The contrast is stark: 'thou shalt not...but thy son shall.' God's plan transcends one person's lifetime. What David could not do because of warfare and bloodshed, his son—born in peace—would accomplish. This division of labor across generations shows God working within human limits while achieving His full purpose.
The phrase 'which shall come forth out of thy loins' emphasizes biological continuity and dynastic promise. Solomon is not a distant heir but David's direct son. The promise plants hope: the work will continue through David's line, and the house will be built by one who belongs to David. God's word to David is not broken but deferred, strengthening faith.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 6:9
What does 2 Chronicles 6:9 mean?
David will not build, but his son—Solomon—will complete the temple for God's name.
What is the context of 2 Chronicles 6:9?
God's explicit word to David: his son, not he, will build the temple.