Dedication in the Bible

David defeats the Philistines, Moabites, Arameans, and Edomites, expanding his kingdom. He dedicates the captured treasures to God. David reigns with justice and righteousness over all Israel.

Solomon builds the temple over seven years according to precise specifications. God promises that if Solomon walks in His statutes, He will dwell among Israel and never forsake them. The inner sanctuary is overlaid with pure gold.

Solomon builds his royal palace complex over 13 years. The craftsman Huram creates elaborate bronze furnishings for the temple, including two massive pillars named Jachin and Boaz, a bronze sea, and ten bronze basins.

Solomon dedicates the temple with a magnificent prayer. The glory of the Lord fills the temple as a cloud. Solomon prays for God to hear prayers directed toward this house — from foreigners, in battle, during famine, and in exile.

Hannah, barren and deeply distressed, prays fervently at the tabernacle in Shiloh for a son. She vows to dedicate him to God. God answers her prayer, and she gives birth to Samuel, whose name means heard by God.

Hannah offers a prophetic song of praise after dedicating Samuel to the Lord. Meanwhile, Eli's sons Hophni and Phinehas are corrupt priests who abuse their position. A prophet warns Eli that judgment is coming on his household.

The temple furnishings are created: the bronze altar, the bronze sea on twelve oxen, ten basins, ten golden lampstands, ten tables, and the courtyard. Huram the craftsman completes the bronze work.

Solomon kneels before the entire assembly and prays an extensive dedication prayer. He asks God to hear prayers directed toward the temple — in times of sin, drought, famine, plague, war, and exile — and to forgive those who repent.

King Darius finds Cyrus's decree and orders the temple rebuilding to continue with full support and funding. The temple is completed and dedicated with joy. The returned exiles celebrate Passover, and God turns the heart of the Assyrian king to help them.

The walls of Jerusalem are dedicated with great celebration. Two choirs march in opposite directions along the walls, meeting at the temple with songs of thanksgiving. The joy of Jerusalem is heard far away. Provision for priests and Levites is organized.