2 Chronicles 1:5

But the bronze altar made by Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, was in Gibeon before the tabernacle of the LORD. So Solomon and the assembly inquired of Him there.

Study Bible

But the bronze altar
The "bronze altar" refers to the altar of burnt offering, a significant piece of the tabernacle's furnishings. In Hebrew, the word for altar is "mizbeach," which signifies a place of sacrifice. The use of bronze, a durable and resilient metal, symbolizes strength and endurance. This altar was central to Israelite worship, representing the people's need for atonement and the seriousness of sin. It was a place where sacrifices were made to God, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

that Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, had made
Bezalel, mentioned here, was a skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the tabernacle and its furnishings (Exodus 31:2-5). His lineage, "son of Uri, the son of Hur," connects him to the tribe of Judah, emphasizing the importance of his work in the worship life of Israel. Bezalel's craftsmanship was divinely inspired, highlighting the importance of using God-given talents for His glory. This lineage also reminds us of the continuity of God's work through generations.

was in Gibeon
Gibeon was a significant location during this period, serving as a high place where the tabernacle was located after the destruction of Shiloh. Historically, Gibeon was a Canaanite city that became part of Israel's territory. Its mention here underscores the transitional period in Israel's worship practices, as the central place of worship would soon move to Jerusalem under Solomon's reign. Gibeon's role as a worship site reflects God's presence with His people, even as they awaited the establishment of the temple.

in front of the tabernacle of the LORD
The "tabernacle of the LORD" was the portable dwelling place for God's presence among the Israelites. It was a sacred space where God met with His people, and its presence in Gibeon signifies God's continued faithfulness. The phrase "in front of" indicates the altar's position as central to the worship and sacrificial system, reminding us of the necessity of approaching God through the means He has provided.

So Solomon and the assembly inquired of Him there
Solomon, as the newly anointed king, along with the assembly of Israel, sought God's guidance and blessing at this sacred site. The act of inquiring of God reflects a heart of dependence and humility, recognizing that true wisdom and direction come from the Lord. This moment foreshadows Solomon's later request for wisdom, illustrating the importance of seeking God's will in leadership and life. The communal aspect of this inquiry highlights the unity of God's people in worship and their collective need for divine guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
A skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the bronze altar. His work is a testament to God-given talents and obedience.

2. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was known for his wisdom and leadership. At this point in the account, he is seeking God's guidance at the beginning of his reign.

3. Gibeon
A significant high place where the Tabernacle of the LORD was located at this time. It was a central place of worship before the Temple in Jerusalem was built.

4. The Bronze Altar
Constructed by Bezalel, this altar was used for sacrifices and was a focal point for worship and seeking God's presence.

5. The Assembly
Refers to the gathering of Israel's leaders and people who joined Solomon in seeking the LORD's guidance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Heritage
Bezalel's work, passed down through generations, underscores the value of a godly heritage and the lasting impact of faithful service.

Seeking God’s Guidance
Solomon's inquiry at Gibeon illustrates the necessity of seeking God's wisdom and direction, especially at pivotal moments in life.

The Role of Worship in Leadership
Solomon's leadership began with worship and seeking God, setting a precedent for leaders to prioritize spiritual guidance.

The Significance of Sacred Spaces
Gibeon, as a place of worship, reminds us of the importance of setting aside sacred spaces and times for communion with God.

Continuity of Worship Practices
The use of the bronze altar shows the continuity and consistency in worship practices, emphasizing the importance of tradition in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the craftsmanship of Bezalel inspire us to use our talents for God's glory today?

2. In what ways can we seek God's guidance in our own lives, following Solomon's example at Gibeon?

3. What role does worship play in your personal leadership or decision-making processes?

4. How can we create sacred spaces in our daily lives to ensure regular communion with God?

5. How does understanding the continuity of worship from the Old Testament to the New Testament enhance our appreciation of Christian traditions today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:1-5
Describes Bezalel's divine appointment and skill in crafting the Tabernacle, highlighting the continuity of worship practices from the wilderness to Solomon's time.

1 Kings 3:4-15
Provides a parallel account of Solomon's visit to Gibeon, where he famously asked God for wisdom, demonstrating the importance of seeking divine guidance.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings, including the altar, drawing a connection between the Old Covenant worship and the New Covenant in Christ.