2 Chronicles 2:2

So he conscripted 70,000 porters, 80,000 stonecutters in the mountains, and 3,600 supervisors.

Study Bible

Solomon conscripted
The act of conscription here indicates a formal and organized effort by Solomon to gather a workforce for a significant project. The Hebrew root for "conscripted" is "סָבַל" (sabal), which implies bearing a burden or laboring. This reflects Solomon's role as a wise and strategic leader, organizing resources for the monumental task of building the temple. Historically, this conscription was a common practice for large state projects in the ancient Near East, demonstrating Solomon's alignment with the practices of powerful monarchs of his time.

70,000 porters
The number "70,000" signifies a vast workforce, emphasizing the scale and grandeur of the temple project. Porters, or "נָשָׂא" (nasa), were responsible for carrying heavy loads, a task requiring strength and endurance. This highlights the physical demands of temple construction and the logistical planning involved. The use of such a large number of porters underscores the importance of the temple as a national and spiritual symbol for Israel.

80,000 stonecutters in the mountains
Stonecutters, or "חָצַב" (chatsab), were skilled laborers tasked with extracting and shaping stones, a critical component of ancient construction. The mention of "in the mountains" suggests the sourcing of high-quality materials, likely from the quarries of Lebanon, known for their fine stone. This phrase reflects the dedication to excellence and the lengths to which Solomon went to ensure the temple's magnificence, symbolizing the glory and permanence of God's dwelling place.

3,600 supervisors over them
Supervisors, or "נָצַח" (natsach), were appointed to oversee the laborers, ensuring efficiency and quality control. The specific number "3,600" indicates a well-structured hierarchy and the importance of leadership in managing such a large workforce. This organization reflects Solomon's wisdom in administration and the biblical principle of stewardship, where leaders are called to manage resources and people effectively for God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is known for his wisdom and for building the First Temple in Jerusalem. His reign is marked by peace and prosperity.

2. Porters
These were laborers tasked with carrying materials necessary for the construction of the temple. Their role was crucial in the logistics of the building process.

3. Stonecutters
Skilled workers responsible for cutting and preparing stones used in the temple's construction. Their work required precision and expertise.

4. Supervisors
These individuals were responsible for overseeing the laborers, ensuring that the work was done efficiently and according to plan.

5. Mountains
The stonecutters worked in the mountains, which were the source of the stones used for the temple. This highlights the effort and resources required for the temple's construction.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Organization and Leadership
Solomon's conscription of laborers and supervisors demonstrates the need for organization and leadership in accomplishing large tasks. Effective leadership is crucial in both spiritual and practical endeavors.

The Value of Skilled Labor
The mention of stonecutters highlights the importance of skilled labor in achieving excellence. In our lives, we should value and develop the skills God has given us for His glory.

Unity in Purpose
The diverse roles of porters, stonecutters, and supervisors illustrate the necessity of unity and cooperation in achieving a common goal. In the body of Christ, each member has a unique role that contributes to the whole.

Preparation and Provision
Solomon's preparation for the temple construction underscores the importance of preparation and provision in fulfilling God's purposes. We should be diligent in preparing ourselves for the tasks God has set before us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's organization of laborers reflect principles of effective leadership that can be applied in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we identify and develop the skills God has given us to serve His purposes, similar to the stonecutters in Solomon's time?

3. How can the unity and cooperation among the laborers in building the temple inspire us to work together in the church today?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are adequately prepared for the tasks God has called us to, as Solomon prepared for the temple construction?

5. How does the concept of being built into a spiritual temple, as described in Ephesians 2:19-22, challenge us to live in community with other believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 5:13-18
This passage provides a parallel account of Solomon's labor force and the preparations for building the temple, offering additional details about the workforce and materials.

Exodus 31:1-11
This passage describes the skilled artisans Bezalel and Oholiab, who were filled with the Spirit of God to construct the Tabernacle, drawing a parallel to the skilled laborers in Solomon's time.

Ephesians 2:19-22
This New Testament passage speaks of believers being built together into a spiritual temple, connecting the physical construction of Solomon's temple to the spiritual building of the church.