And Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the LORD, and an house for his kingdom.
Solomon determined to build two distinct houses, one for the name of the Lord and one for his own kingdom. The house for the Lord's name was set apart to God for burning incense before Him. It was also for setting out the continual showbread and for offering burnt offerings morning and evening. Those offerings were to be made on Sabbaths and on new moons and on the appointed feasts. Though the temple was great, God is greater than all gods and even heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain Him, so the house was built not to enclose Him but as a place to offer sacrifices to Him.
Solomon determined to build two distinct houses, one for the name of the Lord and one for his own kingdom. The house for the Lord's name was set apart to God for burning incense before Him. It was also for setting out the continual showbread and for offering burnt offerings morning and evening. Those offerings were to be made on Sabbaths and on new moons and on the appointed feasts. Though the temple was great, God is greater than all gods and even heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain Him, so the house was built not to enclose Him but as a place to offer sacrifices to Him.