MPV Commentary

1. The fire from heaven descended and consumed the burnt offering, demonstrating God's acceptance of Solomon's prayer (see Leviticus 9:24; 1 Kings 18:38). This miraculous display was a token of God's presence and approval.

The glory of the Lord filled the temple, symbolized by the cloud that enveloped the interior (Exodus 40:35).

2. The priests were initially unable to enter the sanctuary due to awe and reverence for the burning fire on the altar and the dense cloud surrounding the temple (1 Kings 8:10). However, as their courage was revived, they approached the altar and offered numerous sacrifices.

3. All the Israelites bowed down with their faces to the ground on the pavement, a gesture of profound reverence and humility characteristic of Hebrews and Orientals alike. The temple courts were packed, and the massive crowd threw themselves to the ground in response to the majestic sight of the symbolic cloud slowly descending upon the temple and entering it.