1 Kings 8:33 Meaning
When thy people Israel be smitten down before the enemy, because they have sinned against thee, and shall turn again to thee, and confess thy name, and pray, and make supplication unto thee in this house:
Context Explained
31If any man trespass against his neighbour, and an oath be laid upon him to cause him to swear, and the oath come before thine altar in this house:
32Then hear thou in heaven, and do, and judge thy servants, condemning the wicked, to bring his way upon his head; and justifying the righteous, to give him according to his righteousness.
33When thy people Israel be smitten down before the enemy, because they have sinned against thee, and shall turn again to thee, and confess thy name, and pray, and make supplication unto thee in this house:
34Then hear thou in heaven, and forgive the sin of thy people Israel, and bring them again unto the land which thou gavest unto their fathers.
35When heaven is shut up, and there is no rain, because they have sinned against thee; if they pray toward this place, and confess thy name, and turn from their sin, when thou afflictest them:
Key Themes
Related Cross References
2 Chronicles 7:14
This verse similarly calls for humility, prayer, and seeking God's face for healing.
Luke 15:18
The prodigal son confesses his sins and returns to his father, reflecting the theme of repentance.
James 4:8
James encourages drawing near to God, which involves repentance and confession.
Source: 1 Kings 8:33