Definition: Moreover Solomon hallowed the middle of the court that [was] before the house of the LORD: for there he offered burnt offerings, and the fat of the peace offerings, because the brasen altar which Solomon had made was not able to receive the burnt offerings, and the meat offerings, and the fat.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 7:7. It's a really significant passage about how God wanted to make Solomon’s temple in Jerusalem even more beautiful and dedicated. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God was wanting to make the central area of the temple – the part where sacrifices were made – much grander and more impressive than anything before. He needed a space that would really honor Him. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Moreover Solomon hallowed the middle of the court…” - "Hallowing" means to make something holy or special. Solomon was building a temple, so he wanted to give it a special and reverent atmosphere. “The middle of the court” refers to the main area where people gathered for sacrifices. "...that [was] before the house of the LORD…” - This is really important! It means before the temple was built. It’s talking about the very beginning, when God first started planning this place for worship. “…he offered burnt offerings, and the fat of the peace offerings…” - "Burnt offerings" were sacrifices made to show devotion and gratitude – things like animal blood, often used in rituals. “The fat of the peace offerings” was a special type of offering that symbolized peace. "...because the brasen altar which Solomon had made was not able to receive the burnt offerings, and the meat offerings, and the fat.” - This is where it gets really significant. Solomon’s altar (a large stone platform) couldn't hold all the sacrifices. It wasn't big enough. This shows that the temple needed a larger space to accommodate these offerings. So, what does it all tell us? This verse is about expanding and improving Solomon’s temple. It highlights God’s desire for a place of worship that would be truly magnificent, reflecting His glory and demonstrating his power and love. It shows he was striving to create a space that would honor Him more deeply than anything before. In essence, it's a story about God's plan to make the temple in Jerusalem even more spectacular. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the significance of Solomon’s temple in biblical history?