2 Chronicles 7:1-3·~1 min
Fire from Heaven
Fire falls on the sacrifices, the glory fills the temple so fully that the priests cannot enter, and all Israel bows down to worship and give thanks.
W1hen Solomon had finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the LORD filled the temple. 2The priests were unable to enter the house of the LORD, because the glory of the LORD had filled it. 3When all the Israelites saw the fire coming down and the glory of the LORD above the temple, they bowed down on the pavement with their faces to the ground, and they worshiped and gave thanks to the LORD:
Section summaryAs soon as Solomon finishes praying, heaven answers with fire and the temple fills with the Lord's glory. The people see it, fall low, and answer with worship and thanks.
Role in the chapterThis opening section confirms that the temple dedication has been received. It turns Solomon's prayer into a public sign that draws priests and people alike under the Lord's overwhelming presence.