2 Chronicles 1:6

Solomon offered sacrifices there before the LORD on the bronze altar in the Tent of Meeting, where he offered a thousand burnt offerings.

Study Bible

Solomon
Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, is a central figure in this passage. His name in Hebrew, "Shlomo," is derived from "shalom," meaning peace. Solomon's reign is often characterized by peace and prosperity, a fulfillment of God's promise to David. As a king, Solomon is known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem. His actions in this verse reflect his dedication to God and his role as a leader who seeks divine guidance.

offered
The act of offering in the Hebrew context is "qarab," which means to draw near or present. This signifies not just a physical act of sacrifice but a spiritual act of drawing near to God. Solomon's offering is an expression of his devotion and desire to honor God, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His favor.

a thousand burnt offerings
The number "a thousand" symbolizes completeness and abundance in the biblical context. Burnt offerings, or "olah" in Hebrew, were sacrifices that were completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God. This extravagant number of offerings demonstrates Solomon's wholehearted commitment and the importance he places on seeking God's presence and blessing at the beginning of his reign.

on the bronze altar
The bronze altar, located at the Tent of Meeting, was a significant place for sacrifices in Israelite worship. Made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, it was used for burnt offerings and symbolized atonement and reconciliation with God. The use of the bronze altar indicates adherence to the prescribed worship practices and the importance of approaching God in the manner He has ordained.

at the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or "Ohel Moed" in Hebrew, was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites before the construction of the Temple. It was the place where God met with Moses and the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Solomon's use of this sacred space underscores the continuity of worship practices from the time of Moses and the centrality of God's presence in the life of Israel.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" indicates that Solomon's actions were done in the presence of God, acknowledging His omnipresence and authority. It reflects a posture of humility and reverence, recognizing that all acts of worship are ultimately directed towards God, who is the ultimate audience and recipient of devotion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is known for his wisdom, wealth, and building the First Temple in Jerusalem. At this point in the account, he has just become king of Israel.

2. Bronze Altar
A significant altar used for sacrifices, located in the Tent of Meeting. It symbolizes the place where offerings are made to God, representing worship and atonement.

3. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is the central figure in Israel's worship and the one to whom Solomon offers sacrifices.

4. Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, it was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites before the construction of the Temple.

5. Burnt Offerings
These are sacrifices made to God, completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication and surrender to God.

Teaching Points

Wholehearted Worship
Solomon's offering of a thousand burnt offerings signifies his wholehearted devotion to God. Believers are encouraged to worship God with their entire being, not holding back any part of their lives.

Seeking God's Guidance
Solomon's actions precede his request for wisdom. This teaches the importance of seeking God's guidance and favor through prayer and worship before making significant decisions.

Obedience to God's Commands
By following the prescribed method of offering sacrifices, Solomon demonstrates obedience. Christians are called to live in obedience to God's Word, trusting in His ways.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The burnt offerings symbolize total surrender to God. Believers are reminded to surrender their desires and plans to God's will, trusting in His perfect plan.

The Role of Leadership in Worship
As a leader, Solomon sets an example of prioritizing worship. Christian leaders are encouraged to lead by example, prioritizing worship and devotion in their lives and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Solomon's offering of a thousand burnt offerings reveal about his priorities as a new king, and how can we apply this to our own lives when we face new beginnings?

2. How does the concept of a burnt offering in the Old Testament relate to the idea of being a "living sacrifice" in the New Testament, and what practical steps can we take to live this out daily?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate wholehearted worship in our modern context, and what might be some obstacles to achieving this?

4. How does Solomon's obedience to the sacrificial laws challenge us to examine our own obedience to God's commands, and what areas of our lives might need realignment?

5. As leaders in various capacities (family, work, church), how can we model a life of worship and devotion to those we lead, and what impact might this have on our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:4
This passage parallels 2 Chronicles 1:6, describing Solomon's offering at Gibeon, highlighting his devotion and the significance of his actions in seeking God's favor.

Leviticus 1:3-17
Provides the laws concerning burnt offerings, which Solomon follows, demonstrating his adherence to God's commands and the importance of sacrificial worship.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a spiritual parallel to the physical sacrifices Solomon made, emphasizing a life dedicated to God.