2 Chronicles 3:1

Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the LORD had appeared to his father David. This was the place that David had prepared on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.

Study Bible

Then Solomon began
The phrase marks a significant transition in Israel's history, as Solomon, the son of David, takes on the monumental task of building the temple. The Hebrew root for "began" (הֵחֵל, hechel) implies not just a start but a dedication to a divine purpose. Solomon's commencement of the temple construction signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to David, highlighting the continuity of God's covenant with Israel.

to build the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple, a central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The Hebrew word for "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) conveys not just a physical structure but a household or family, symbolizing the intimate relationship between God and Israel. The temple serves as a tangible representation of God's covenant and His desire to dwell with His people.

in Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the city of peace, holds profound theological significance as the chosen city of God. It is the political and spiritual center of Israel, where God's presence is uniquely manifested. The choice of Jerusalem underscores its role as a focal point for worship and divine revelation, fulfilling the promises made to Abraham and David.

on Mount Moriah
Mount Moriah is steeped in biblical history, traditionally identified as the site where Abraham was willing to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22). The Hebrew name "Moriah" (מוֹרִיָּה) is often associated with "seen by Yahweh" or "chosen by Yahweh," indicating a place of divine encounter and provision. Building the temple here connects Solomon's work to the faith of the patriarchs and God's ongoing plan of redemption.

where the LORD had appeared to his father David
This phrase emphasizes the continuity of God's revelation and guidance. The appearance of the LORD to David, recorded in 1 Chronicles 21, was a moment of divine intervention and mercy. It highlights the temple's foundation in God's grace and the importance of obedience and repentance in the life of Israel.

at the site that David had prepared
David's preparation of the site reflects his deep devotion and obedience to God's instructions. Although David was not permitted to build the temple himself, his role in preparing the site underscores the collaborative nature of God's work across generations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of laying a spiritual foundation for future endeavors.

on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite
The threshing floor, a place of separation and purification, symbolizes spiritual cleansing and renewal. Ornan the Jebusite, a non-Israelite, willingly sold the site to David, illustrating the inclusivity of God's plan and the breaking down of ethnic barriers. This location, once a place of judgment, becomes a site of worship and reconciliation, embodying the transformative power of God's presence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel, known for his wisdom and for building the first temple in Jerusalem.

2. The House of the LORD
Refers to the temple that Solomon built, which became the central place of worship for the Israelites and housed the Ark of the Covenant.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, chosen by God as the place where His name would dwell. It holds significant historical and spiritual importance.

4. Mount Moriah
The location where Solomon built the temple. It is also traditionally associated with the binding of Isaac by Abraham, highlighting its deep spiritual significance.

5. Ornan the Jebusite
The original owner of the threshing floor where the temple was built. David purchased this site, which was later prepared for the temple construction.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience and Preparation
Solomon's building of the temple was a fulfillment of God's promise to David. It underscores the importance of obedience to God's instructions and the preparation that precedes fulfilling His plans.

Significance of Sacred Spaces
The temple on Mount Moriah highlights the importance of having dedicated spaces for worship and encountering God. It reminds us to honor and maintain our places of worship.

Legacy and Continuity of Faith
The connection between David's preparation and Solomon's building of the temple illustrates the continuity of faith and legacy. It encourages us to consider how our actions today can impact future generations.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The construction of the temple is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It encourages believers to trust in God's timing and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the location of Mount Moriah enhance the spiritual significance of the temple Solomon built?

2. In what ways can we prepare ourselves and our communities for God's work, as David prepared the site for the temple?

3. How does the account of Solomon building the temple encourage us to trust in God's promises and timing in our own lives?

4. What are some modern-day "sacred spaces" in your life, and how do you honor them as places of worship and encounter with God?

5. How can we ensure that our faith and actions today positively impact future generations, as seen in the legacy of David and Solomon?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
Mount Moriah is first mentioned as the place where Abraham was tested by God to sacrifice Isaac, establishing its significance as a place of faith and obedience.

1 Chronicles 21
Details the purchase of the threshing floor from Ornan by David, emphasizing the importance of the site and David's role in preparing for the temple.

1 Kings 6
Provides a parallel account of Solomon's construction of the temple, offering additional details about the building process and its significance.