מלכים א, פרק ח׳, פסוק נ״ה

King Solomon stands before the nation to deliver a powerful message rooted in faith, history, and a deep recognition of God's kindness. Raising his voice loudly so all can hear, he prepares to offer his people a profound blessing [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Although his primary goal is to bless the Israelites, he begins by blessing God [אלשיך, חומת אנך]. This specific order is highly intentional. Mystical teachings explain that whenever a person wishes to bless a friend or a child, they must bless God first. Without this initial step, the blessings will not be fulfilled [חומת אנך].

The core of Solomon's message is designed to strengthen the faith of the people. He reminds them of their history, pointing out that God has faithfully kept His promise to Moses by finally granting the nation a place of rest. Building on this historical truth, Solomon asks that God continue to stay by their side, just as He did for their ancestors, and never abandon them [צאינה וראינה].

At the same time, this blessing carries a clear warning. Solomon emphasizes that not a single good promise made by God has ever failed. While this reality brings comfort, it also requires the people to remain careful. The realization that God strictly keeps His word for the good should make the nation aware that His warnings of punishment will also come true if they ever corrupt their actions and do evil in His eyes [אלשיך].