What is the meaning of 1 Kings 9:25? Three times a year “Three times a year Solomon offered burnt offerings and peace offerings …” (1 Kings 9:25) • The verse points back to the Lord’s command that every male in Israel appear before Him at the three pilgrimage feasts—Unleavened Bread, Weeks, and Tabernacles (De 16:16; Exodus 23:14–17). • Solomon personally honors that rhythm of worship even as king, showing that no one is exempt from God’s appointments (compare 2 Chronicles 8:12-13). • His obedience sets a tone for the nation; when leaders take God’s word seriously, the people are encouraged to do the same (see Joshua 24:15). Solomon offered burnt offerings and peace offerings “… Solomon offered burnt offerings and peace offerings …” • Burnt offerings were wholly consumed on the altar, symbolizing total surrender to God (Leviticus 1:3-9). • Peace (or fellowship) offerings celebrated communion with God and often included a shared meal (Leviticus 3:1-17). • By bringing both kinds, Solomon affirms God’s rightful ownership of everything and enjoys the covenant peace that flows from obedience (1 Kings 3:4-15; 2 Chronicles 7:4-7). on the altar he had built for the LORD “… on the altar he had built for the LORD …” • The altar in the temple court replaced the portable bronze altar of the wilderness (Exodus 27:1-8). It was consecrated when the temple was dedicated (1 Kings 8:64). • Solomon’s personal use of this altar underscores that it is not merely a national monument; it is the meeting place with the living God (2 Chronicles 7:7). • Building something for the Lord is only fulfilled when it is actively used for His worship. burning incense with them before the LORD “… burning incense with them before the LORD.” • Incense rising with the sacrifices pictures prayers ascending to God (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3-4). • The practice recalls the daily incense offered by priests (Exodus 30:7-8) and signals that Solomon’s worship is both personal and representative of the people. • True worship blends surrendered lives, joyful fellowship, and continual prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Hebrews 13:15). So he completed the temple “So he completed the temple.” • The physical construction had ended earlier (1 Kings 6:38), yet Scripture says Solomon “completed” it here, showing that a house of worship is only truly finished when it is filled with obedient, ongoing sacrifice and prayer (compare 2 Chronicles 7:11-12). • God’s glory continues to dwell where His people faithfully keep His commands and seek His presence (1 Kings 8:10-11; John 14:23). summary 1 Kings 9:25 highlights Solomon’s steadfast, patterned worship after the temple’s dedication. By keeping the tri-annual feasts, offering both burnt and peace sacrifices on the consecrated altar, and adding fragrant incense of prayer, Solomon models wholehearted devotion. The verse reminds us that God’s house is “completed” not merely by stone and gold but by consistent, obedient, God-centered worship that rises from thankful hearts. |
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