John Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible - 1 Kings 8:1-66
The Dedication of the Temple. Solomon’s Prayer1. The chief of the fathers] i.e. heads of families. Out of the city] The Temple and Palace were built on the site of Araunah’s threshing floor (2 Chronicles 3:1), which would naturally be outside the city walls and on higher ground: cp. 1 Kings 9:24. 2. Ethanim] The later Tishri, corresponding to Sept.-Oct. The feast referred to was Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:34).3. The priests] 2 Chronicles 5:4 has ’the Levites,’ certain of whom (the Kohathites)... read more
Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - 1 Kings 8:54-61
Solomon’s benediction on the people 8:54-61This benediction began with a review of God’s past faithfulness (1 Kings 8:56). Solomon then voiced three wishes (1 Kings 8:57-59) with an explanation concerning his motive (1 Kings 8:60). He concluded with a challenge for the future (1 Kings 8:61). The three desires of Solomon’s heart were, first, that God would bless his generation with His divine presence (1 Kings 8:57). Second, he asked that He would give His people the will to walk in obedience to... read more