Definition: What prayer and supplication soever be [made] by any man, [or] by all thy people Israel, which shall know every man the plague of his own heart, and spread forth his hands toward this house:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 8:38. It's a pretty complex passage, but here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is about spiritual reflection and repentance. It’s urging the King of Israel to look inward – to really think about his own heart – and to seek forgiveness and change. Here's a breakdown of what each part means: “What prayer and supplication soever be made by any man, [or] by all thy people Israel…” This is the starting point. It’s asking anyone – anyone , regardless of their status – to make a prayer or request. The word “soverer” (or “sovereign”) is a bit tricky here; it means "supreme" or "highest." So, essentially, this is inviting everyone to offer a prayer. “…which shall know every man the plague of his own heart…” This is the key part. “Plague of his own heart” is a powerful metaphor. It means that everyone needs to examine their own thoughts, feelings, and motivations – especially those that are negative or harmful. The verse suggests that each person should be actively trying to understand what’s wrong with themselves. “…and spread forth his hands toward this house:” This is a symbolic gesture. "This house" represents the Temple in Jerusalem. The act of extending one's hands towards it signifies reaching out for forgiveness and seeking God's grace. It's an invitation to turn inward and seek help. Overall Meaning & Context: Historically, this verse was part of a larger ritual – a Shma (sacred prayer) that the King performed. It wasn’t just about asking for blessings; it was about acknowledging your own shortcomings and seeking God's forgiveness for your sins. The idea was that if everyone understood their own mistakes, it would lead to a greater understanding of God’s law and a more righteous life. Why is this important? It highlights the importance of personal accountability and spiritual self-reflection – something that’s still relevant today in our lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?