2 Chronicles 6:37

Yet if they bethink themselves in the land whither they are carried captive, and turn and pray unto thee in the land of their captivity, saying, We have sinned, we have done amiss, and have dealt wickedly;

2 Chronicles 6:37 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to Solomon’s prayer at the temple dedication in Jerusalem. He foresees that Israel will sin and be carried into a foreign land. In that captivity, the people are to remember their condition and turn back to God. Even far from the temple, they can still seek Him.

Meaning

“Bethink themselves” means to come to their senses and reflect honestly. Their confession is threefold: they have sinned, done amiss, and dealt wickedly. This covers every kind of wrong, from missing God’s standard to open evil. Repentance begins with such truthful admission. It involves both an inward change of heart and an outward turning to God in prayer.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in 1 Kings 8:47 uses nearly the same words, showing how central this prayer was. The following verses in 2 Chronicles 6 continue with Solomon asking God to hear from heaven and forgive, confirming that restoration follows genuine repentance.

Application

No distance or circumstance separates us from God when we repent. Like Israel in exile, we may face hard consequences for sin, yet the way back remains open. Humble confession and earnest prayer are the first steps toward mercy. God remains accessible to those who genuinely turn to Him.

Reflection

God’s discipline is not rejection but an invitation to return. True repentance changes the heart and turns the whole life toward Him. When we confess fully, we can trust that He who heard Solomon’s prayer will hear ours as well.