The leaders of all Israel were gathered.  The ark was brought by the Levites into the Most Holy Place and was placed under the 30 foot long wings of the cherubim.  The priests had consecrated themselves and now the celebrations were to begin.

“When the priests came out of the holy place, the Levitical singers dressed in fine linen and carrying cymbals, harps and lyres were standing east of the altar, and with them were 120 priests blowing trumpets…The trumpeters and singers joined together to praise and thank the LORD with one voice.  They raised their voices, accompanied by trumpets, cymbals, and musical instruments, in praise to the LORD: 

For He is good;
His faithful love endures forever.”

2 Chr 5:12-13

That’s 120 priests blowing on trumpets, with cymbals, lyres, and other musical instruments.  It was well-done, quality and voluminous worship to the Lord to prepare for the dedication.

The Lord was honored and came down in a cloud so intense that they priests could not continue their musical celebration.

“…for the glory of the LORD filled God’s temple” (2 Chr 5:14).

The priest and the people could stand in the grandeur of the magnificent temple and worship.  But before the Presence of God they could not even come close.  Nothing on this earth compares to the glory of God.

And there’s no greater experience on this earth than to know that Immanuel, God is with us.