1 Kings 8:5
And king Solomon, and all the congregation of Israel, that were assembled unto him, were with him before the ark, sacrificing sheep and oxen, that could not be told nor numbered for multitude. And king Solomon, and all the congregation of Israel, that were assembled unto him, were with him before the ark, sacrificing sheep and oxen, that could not be told nor numbered for multitude.
The verse describes the transfer of the ark of the covenant of the Lord out of the city of David up into the finished temple at its dedication. For this Solomon assembled the elders of Israel and the most influential men together with all the congregation of Israel. Many from other nations also came to witness the dedication of the house of God.
The leading men had consecrated themselves to God and with great solemnity and reverence accompanied the priests who bore the ark. Solomon and all the congregation assembled with him stood before the ark, sacrificing sheep and oxen in such multitude that they could not be told nor numbered. The dedication proceeded with great splendor. In this Solomon followed the example of his father David by sacrificing every six paces as the ark was carried toward its place. The offering was made with singing and music and great ceremony as the ark was carried forward.
Solomon used the gathering to tear away heathen superstitions about Jehovah. He taught the people that God is not like the heathen gods who are confined to temples built for them. The God of Israel would meet His people by His Spirit when they assembled in that house dedicated to His worship.