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Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 5 - Verse 14

5:14
So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of God.

Meaning

When the verse mentions that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud which was a sign of the glory of the Lord filling the house of God, it signifies the overwhelming presence of God in the temple. The cloud often represented the divine presence of God, as seen throughout the Bible when God guided the Israelites in the wilderness and when He appeared to Moses on Mount Sinai. In this context, the cloud symbolizes God's glory and holiness filling the temple to such an extent that the priests were unable to perform their duties. This verse highlights the power and majesty of God, emphasizing His presence as central to the worship and service in the temple. It serves as a reminder of the reverence and awe that His presence inspires, calling attention to the importance of acknowledging and honoring God in all aspects of life.

Theological Overview

In this verse, it is important to note the significance of the phrase "glory of the LORD had filled the house of God." The word "glory" here is translated from the Hebrew word "kabowd," which can also be interpreted as "honor, glory, splendor, or weight." The use of this word emphasizes the majestic presence of God within the temple. The cloud mentioned in the verse symbolizes the divine presence of God, as seen throughout the Bible in instances such as when God led the Israelites through the wilderness in a pillar of cloud by day. The overwhelming nature of God's glory in filling the temple to the point where the priests could not even stand to minister further illustrates the holiness and power of the Lord. This verse serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of God's presence and the reverence that should be shown in His house.

American Standard Version

so that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of Jehovah filled the house of God.
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