Tyndale Open Study Notes2 Chronicles 7

When they brought the ark to its place (see 2 Chronicles 5:13–14), the glorious presence of the Lord descended on the temple. The divine glory stayed in the temple, stopping the priests from entering to perform their duties (see “The Glory of God” Theme Note and “God’s Glory with His People” Theme Note).

Sacrifices were essential to dedicate the dwelling of the most high on earth. They also provided food for the people during the fifteen-day celebration. The number of animals sacrificed matches those in 1 Kings 8:63.

Lebo-hamath in the north and the Brook of Egypt in the south marked Israel's boundaries, as promised to the patriarchs (Genesis 15:18; Numbers 34:5, 8; Joshua 15:4). The temple dedication festival occurred before the annual Festival of Shelters, which ended on the twenty-second day of the month.

These verses refer directly to Solomon’s prayer (see 2 Chronicles 6:26, 28, 40). God explained to Solomon what is needed to be saved from judgment. In Solomon’s prayer, each situation was addressed separately. In the Lord’s answer, the response is more general and thorough. The people need humility, repentance, seeking the Lord, and prayer to heal from their troubles.

God told Solomon that God's kingdom is eternal. In 1 Kings 9:5, it says one of Solomon's descendants will always be on Israel's throne. The Chronicler says one of Solomon's descendants will always rule Israel. During the Chronicler's time, there was no throne in Israel, so this refers to the Messiah (compare Micah 5:2).

Even though it was magnificent, people mocked the temple when the Israelites turned away from the Lord. The Babylonians destroyed the temple in 586 BC.