2 Chronicles 6:41
Now therefore arise, O Lord God, into thy resting place, thou, and the Arke of thy strength: Let thy Priests, O Lord God, be clothed with saluation, and let thy Saints reioyce in goodnesse. 2 Chronicles 6:41 (KJV)
The passage is frequently presented as a verse from the Bible, yet it does not appear in the King James Version or any other standard biblical translation. It is not part of the recorded prayers of King Solomon found in 1 Kings 8 or 2 Chronicles 6, which contain the canonical account of the temple dedication.
Nevertheless, the language of the passage reflects themes that are consistent with the spirit of Solomon’s prayer for the newly built temple. The phrase “resting place” evokes the biblical concept of God’s dwelling among His people, a motif that signifies the intimate relationship between the Divine and Israel. By asking God to “arise” and enter this resting place, the prayer expresses a desire for God’s presence to fill the temple.
The reference to “the ark of thy strength” alludes to the Ark of the Covenant, the sacred container of the covenantal signs of God’s power and authority. Though the exact wording is not found in the canonical text, the image underscores the belief that true strength comes from God alone and that the ark symbolizes His covenant relationship with Israel.
The petition that the priests be “clothed with salvation” highlights the importance of righteousness, holiness, and a right relationship with God for those who serve in the sanctuary. Such clothing metaphorically denotes consecration and divine protection for the priestly ministry.
Finally, the desire that “the saints rejoice in goodness” captures the biblical longing for God’s people to experience joy rooted in His mercy, grace, and faithfulness. The goodness of God is portrayed as the source of true happiness for the faithful.
Overall, while the passage is not a direct quotation from Scripture, it encapsulates key biblical themes of God’s dwelling, the significance of the ark, the sanctity of the priesthood, and the joy of the saints, echoing the theological atmosphere of Solomon’s temple dedication.
