2 Chronicles 9:14
not including the revenue from the merchants and traders. And all the Arabian kings and governors of the land also brought gold and silver to Solomon.
not including the revenue from the merchants and traders
This phrase highlights the vast wealth that Solomon accumulated, which was not solely dependent on trade. In the ancient Near East, trade was a significant source of wealth, with merchants and traders dealing in goods such as spices, textiles, and precious metals. Solomon's wealth was so extensive that it surpassed even the substantial income from these commercial activities. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Solomon of unparalleled wisdom and wealth (1 Kings 3:13). The mention of merchants and traders also underscores the economic prosperity of Israel during Solomon's reign, as the kingdom was strategically located along major trade routes connecting Africa, Asia, and Europe.

And all the Arabian kings and governors of the land also brought gold and silver to Solomon
This phrase indicates the political influence and diplomatic relationships Solomon maintained with surrounding nations. The Arabian kings likely refer to rulers from the Arabian Peninsula, a region known for its wealth in spices and precious metals. The act of bringing gold and silver can be seen as a form of tribute or alliance, acknowledging Solomon's supremacy and seeking favor or protection. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to make Solomon's kingdom renowned and respected (1 Kings 4:21). The mention of "governors of the land" suggests local rulers or officials who also contributed to Solomon's wealth, indicating a well-organized and expansive administration. This wealth and influence can be seen as a type of Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate reign of Jesus, who will be recognized by all nations (Philippians 2:10-11). Solomon's reign, marked by peace and prosperity, serves as a precursor to the messianic kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel, renowned for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the First Temple in Jerusalem.

2. Merchants and Traders
These individuals were involved in commerce and trade, contributing to the wealth of Solomon's kingdom through their activities.

3. Arabian Kings
Rulers from the Arabian Peninsula who brought tributes to Solomon, acknowledging his influence and seeking alliances.

4. Governors of the Land
Local rulers or officials who managed regions within Solomon's expansive kingdom, contributing to its prosperity.

5. Gold and Silver
Precious metals that symbolized wealth and prosperity, often used in trade, tribute, and the construction of the Temple.
Teaching Points
The Source of True Wealth
While Solomon's wealth was immense, true wealth is found in spiritual riches and a relationship with God. Believers are encouraged to seek first the kingdom of God.

The Influence of Godly Leadership
Solomon's wisdom and leadership attracted wealth and alliances. Godly leadership can lead to blessings and influence, impacting nations and communities positively.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Riches
Despite Solomon's wealth, it serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly riches. Believers are called to focus on eternal treasures.

The Importance of Stewardship
Solomon's wealth required wise management. Christians are called to be good stewards of the resources God provides, using them for His glory and the benefit of others.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Solomon's wealth and the tributes he received reflect God's promises to him, and what can we learn about God's faithfulness from this?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of seeking wisdom over wealth in our daily lives, as demonstrated by Solomon's initial request for wisdom?

3. How does the wealth of Solomon's kingdom compare to the spiritual riches described in the New Testament, and what does this teach us about our priorities?

4. What lessons can we learn from Solomon's leadership in terms of influencing others and building alliances for God's purposes?

5. How can we practice good stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to us, and what biblical principles guide us in this responsibility?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Kings 10:14
This parallel account provides additional context to Solomon's wealth, emphasizing the vast amount of gold he received annually.

Psalm 72
A psalm attributed to Solomon, which speaks of the prosperity and justice of his reign, reflecting the blessings and wealth described in 2 Chronicles 9:14.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus' teaching on storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, offering a contrast to the earthly wealth of Solomon.
Gold and SilverW. Clarkson 2 Chronicles 9:13-20, 27
The Glory of SolomonT. Whitelaw 2 Chronicles 9:13-31
People
Ahijah, David, Huram, Iddo, Jeroboam, Nathan, Nebat, Nehemiah, Ophir, Rehoboam, Solomon, Tarshish
Places
Arabia, Egypt, Euphrates River, House of the Forest of Lebanon, Jerusalem, Ophir, Sheba, Shephelah, Tarshish
Topics
Addition, Apart, Arabia, Beside, Besides, Bringing, Chapmen, Dealers, Different, Gold, Got, Governors, Kings, Merchants, Revenues, Rulers, Silver, Solomon, Sorts, Tourists, Traders, Traffickers
Dictionary of Bible Themes
2 Chronicles 9:14

     5327   governors

2 Chronicles 9:13-14

     4303   metals
     4363   silver
     5407   merchants

2 Chronicles 9:13-20

     5211   art

2 Chronicles 9:13-21

     4333   gold

Library
The Great Gain of Godliness
'And Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, from Dan even to Beer-sheba, all the days of Solomon. 26. And Solomon had forty thousand stalls of horses for his chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen. 27. And those officers provided victual for king Solomon, and for all that came unto king Solomon's table, every man in his month: they lacked nothing. 28. Barley also and straw for the horses and dromedaries brought they unto the place where the officers were,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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