2 Chronicles 1:15

The king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills.

Study Bible

The king
This phrase refers to King Solomon, the son of David, who was renowned for his wisdom and wealth. Solomon's reign is often seen as the pinnacle of Israel's united monarchy, a time of peace and prosperity. His leadership is a fulfillment of God's promise to David, showcasing the blessings that come with obedience to God's covenant.

made silver and gold as plentiful in Jerusalem as stones
This hyperbolic expression emphasizes the extraordinary wealth and prosperity during Solomon's reign. In the Hebrew context, silver and gold symbolize not only material wealth but also divine favor and blessing. Archaeological findings in Jerusalem and surrounding areas have uncovered significant amounts of these metals, supporting the biblical narrative of a prosperous kingdom. This abundance reflects God's promise to bless Israel when they follow His commandments.

as stones
Stones in ancient Israel were common and abundant, used for building and everyday purposes. By comparing silver and gold to stones, the text highlights the extraordinary economic conditions under Solomon's rule. This comparison also serves as a metaphor for the ease and accessibility of wealth, suggesting that God's blessings were so abundant that what was once rare became commonplace.

cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills
Cedar wood, particularly from Lebanon, was highly prized in the ancient Near East for its quality and durability. It was used in the construction of the temple and Solomon's palace, symbolizing strength and permanence. Sycamore trees, on the other hand, were more common and grew in the lowlands. By equating cedar with sycamore, the text underscores the unprecedented availability of luxury resources, a testament to Solomon's successful trade alliances and God's provision.

in the foothills
The foothills, or Shephelah, were a region of fertile land in ancient Israel, known for agriculture and trade. This geographical reference situates the abundance within a real and tangible context, reminding readers of the historical and physical reality of God's blessings. The mention of the foothills also suggests a spreading of prosperity beyond the capital, indicating a nationwide impact of Solomon's wealth and wisdom.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, Jerusalem is the political and spiritual center of the nation. Under Solomon's rule, it becomes a symbol of wealth and divine blessing.

3. Silver and Gold
These precious metals symbolize wealth and prosperity. Solomon's ability to make them as common as stones indicates the extraordinary economic success during his reign.

4. Cedar
A valuable wood used in construction, especially for the Temple and royal palaces. Its abundance signifies the extensive trade networks and resources available to Solomon.

5. Sycamore in the Foothills
Sycamore trees were common and less valuable, highlighting the contrast with the abundance of cedar, a more precious resource.

Teaching Points

Divine Blessing and Responsibility
Solomon's wealth is a sign of God's blessing, but it also comes with the responsibility to use resources wisely and justly.

The Danger of Materialism
While wealth can be a blessing, it can also lead to complacency and a focus on material rather than spiritual riches.

Stewardship of Resources
Believers are called to be good stewards of the resources God provides, using them to further His kingdom and help others.

Contentment in God's Provision
True contentment comes from trusting in God's provision, not in the accumulation of wealth.

The Temporal Nature of Earthly Wealth
Earthly wealth is temporary and should not be the ultimate goal; instead, focus on eternal treasures.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's wealth reflect God's blessing, and what responsibilities come with such abundance?

2. In what ways can the accumulation of wealth become a spiritual danger, as seen in Solomon's life and other biblical examples?

3. How can we apply the principle of stewardship in our own lives, particularly in managing the resources God has given us?

4. What steps can we take to ensure our focus remains on eternal treasures rather than earthly wealth?

5. How does the abundance of resources in Solomon's time compare to the spiritual riches available to believers today through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 10:27
This verse parallels 2 Chronicles 1:15, emphasizing Solomon's wealth and the abundance of silver and gold in Jerusalem.

Deuteronomy 17:17
This passage warns against kings accumulating excessive wealth, which provides a cautionary backdrop to Solomon's prosperity.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, offering a New Testament perspective on wealth and material abundance.