Old Testament
2 Chronicles 7:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And this house, which is high, will be an astonishment to everyone who passes by it. They will ask, 'Why has the LORD done this to this land and to this house?'
Compare translations
And this house, which is high, shall be an astonishment to every one that passeth by it; so that he shall say, Why hath the LORD done thus unto this land, and unto this house?
What 2 Chronicles 7:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the impact of a magnificent house, likely referring to the temple, on those who see it. People passing by will be struck by its grandeur and will wonder why God allowed such a thing to happen in their land. The house stands as a symbol of divine presence and power, evoking curiosity and astonishment. It serves as a reminder of God's relationship with His people and the consequences of their actions. The beauty and height of the structure will prompt questions about the state of the land and the reasons behind its current condition. This moment of reflection can lead to deeper understanding and awareness of spiritual matters. The astonishment expressed by onlookers indicates that the house is not just a physical structure but a representation of something much greater. It invites everyone to consider their own lives and the divine influence at play in their surroundings. Ultimately, it encourages a search for meaning in the relationship between God, the land, and the people.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 7:21 to your life
When you encounter something awe-inspiring, take a moment to reflect on its significance. Ask yourself what it reveals about your life and your relationship with the divine. Let your curiosity lead you to deeper understanding and connection with the world around you. Seek meaning in the extraordinary moments of life, just as the onlookers did with the temple. Embrace the wonder that prompts questions and exploration of faith and purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: The LORD Appears Again (2 Chronicles 7:11–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Solomon
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Chronicles 7:21
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Chronicles 7:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Chronicles 7:21 mean about the house being an astonishment?
In 2 Chronicles 7:21, the 'house' refers to the temple built by Solomon, which was a magnificent structure symbolizing God's presence among His people. The verse indicates that its grandeur will astonish those who see it, prompting them to question why God allowed such a remarkable building to exist in their land. This astonishment reflects the temple's significance as a spiritual landmark and a reminder of the relationship between God and His people.
Why will people ask about the condition of the land and the house?
The questions raised by passersby in 2 Chronicles 7:21 stem from their astonishment at the temple's grandeur juxtaposed with the state of the land. It suggests that the temple's beauty may contrast with the people's spiritual condition or the land's circumstances. This inquiry invites reflection on the consequences of the people's actions and their relationship with God, encouraging a deeper understanding of their faith and the divine influence in their lives.
How can I apply the message of this verse to my life?
To apply the message of 2 Chronicles 7:21, take time to reflect on the awe-inspiring aspects of your life, such as nature, art, or significant experiences. Consider what these moments reveal about your relationship with God and your spiritual journey. Allow your curiosity about these wonders to lead you to deeper questions about faith, purpose, and the divine presence in your life, just as the onlookers were prompted to do.
What themes are present in 2 Chronicles 7:21?
The themes present in 2 Chronicles 7:21 include divine presence, curiosity, spiritual reflection, and the consequences of human actions. The verse emphasizes how the temple serves as a symbol of God's relationship with His people, evoking wonder and prompting questions about their spiritual state and the reasons behind their circumstances. It encourages individuals to seek meaning in their experiences and the divine influence at play.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.