Old Testament
1 Kings 9:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
then I will cut Israel off from the land I gave them; and this temple, which I have set apart for my name, I will cast out of my sight; and Israel will become a proverb and a byword among all people.
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Then will I cut off Israel out of the land which I have given them; and this house, which I have hallowed for my name, will I cast out of my sight; and Israel shall be a proverb and a byword among all people:
What 1 Kings 9:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God warns that if the people of Israel turn away from Him, they will face severe consequences. He will remove them from the land He promised them and reject the temple that was built in His honor. This temple was meant to be a sacred place, but if the people abandon their faith, it will no longer hold significance. As a result, Israel will become a symbol of disgrace among other nations, often mentioned in a negative context. This serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God. The consequences of turning away from Him can lead to loss and shame, not just for individuals but for the entire community. The message is clear: staying true to one's beliefs is crucial for maintaining a meaningful relationship with God and preserving one's identity. The fate of Israel illustrates how vital it is to remain committed to one's values and the divine guidance provided. This verse challenges us to reflect on our own lives and the impact of our choices.
How to apply 1 Kings 9:7 to your life
Consider how your actions reflect your values and beliefs. Are there areas in your life where you might be drifting away from what you hold dear? Staying true to your principles can help you maintain a strong sense of identity and purpose. Reflect on the importance of community and how your choices affect those around you. Make a conscious effort to align your actions with your beliefs for a more fulfilling life.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: The LORD Appears Again (1 Kings 9:1–9)
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Solomon

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying 1 Kings 9:7
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 9:7 mean?
1 Kings 9:7 conveys God's warning to Israel that if they turn away from Him, He will remove them from the promised land and reject the temple built for His name. This verse highlights the severe consequences of disobedience and the importance of remaining faithful to God.
What is the significance of the temple in 1 Kings 9:7?
In 1 Kings 9:7, the temple represents a sacred space dedicated to God. If the people abandon their faith, the temple will lose its significance, symbolizing the loss of God's presence among them.
What are the consequences mentioned in 1 Kings 9:7?
The consequences in 1 Kings 9:7 include being cut off from the land God gave Israel and the temple being cast out of His sight. This serves as a warning that disobedience leads to loss of identity and disgrace among other nations.
How does 1 Kings 9:7 relate to faithfulness?
1 Kings 9:7 emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God. It illustrates that turning away from Him can result in severe repercussions, affecting both individual and community identity.
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