Translation commentary on 2 Chronicles 6:39

Then hear thou from heaven thy dwelling place: See the comments on verse 21.

Their prayer and their supplications: See the comments on verse 19.

And maintain their cause: See the comments on verse 35. The cause of the Israelites in this context is the exile.

And forgive thy people who have sinned against thee: See the comments on verse 21.

Since there is so much repetition in verses 37-39, Contemporary English Version combines and restructures these three verses as follows:

• Later, they may feel sorry for what they did and ask your forgiveness. Answer them when they pray toward this temple I have built for you in your chosen city, here in this land you gave their ancestors. From your home in heaven, listen to their sincere prayers and forgive your people who have sinned against you.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Chronicles, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2014. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .

SIL Translator’s Notes on 2 Chronicles 6:39

6:39a then may You hear from heaven, Your dwelling place, their prayer and petition,

There in heaven, where you live, hear their prayer and their cries for mercy.
-or-
Please listen to their prayers. From where you live in heaven, please answer their requests for help.

6:39b and may You uphold their cause.

Help them in the battle.
-or-
Give them victory.

6:39c May You forgive Your people who sinned against You.

Please forgive your people for sinning against you.
-or-
Please forgive the sins your people have done against you.

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