Shalom chaverim.  In this “Daily Perush” audio I provide an exegesis and reading of a significant phrase in King Solomon’s great prayer at the dedication of the First Temple, namely, “Behold heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain you” (2 Chron. 6:18), and I then go on to reflect a bit on the meaning of these words in relation to the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.  Please note that this topic is primarily designed for those who are studying Biblical Hebrew. I hope you will find it helpful. – John­

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Key Verse:

 

• 2 Chron. 6:18b Hebrew page (pdf)

 

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Additional Comments

During his earthly ministry, our Lord Yeshua referred to himself as “the True Temple of God” (המקדש האמיתי של אלוהים) that dwelt among us. The Mishkan (Tabernacle) was a temporary dwelling place as was the physical Bet Hamikdash (Temple). As Solomon said, God never could be contained in a house made of stone, cedar and gold (2 Chron. 6:18). These were shadows of a greater Substance that entirely embodied the Temple’s purpose and essential truth (Col. 2:17).

Yeshua told the Pharisees of his day that he was greater than the Temple in Jerusalem (Matt. 12:6) and challenged them: “Destroy this Temple, and in three days I will raise it up” (John 2:19-21). Yeshua is the Shekhinah – the Presence of God – manifested in the temple of human form: “For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily” (Col. 2:9, John 1:1,14).

As the Lamb of God, Yeshua is not only the Kodesh Hakodoshim (Holy of Holies) — embodied within a human heart of flesh — but also the substance and end of all sacrifice (Heb. 10:12). When his flesh was destroyed on the Cross, the curtain of the Temple was likewise rent asunder (Matt. 27:50). Access to the inner sanctum of the LORD was thenceforth available to all who would come in faith. Yeshua alone is the Spirit, Source and the End of the true Temple of God.

 

For more see:

The Significance of Zion and the tragedy of Tishah B’Av

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