2 Chronicles 2:17

Solomon numbered all the foreign men in the land of Israel following the census his father David had conducted, and there were found to be 153,600 in all.

Study Bible

Solomon numbered
The act of numbering or taking a census in ancient Israel was significant, often indicating preparation for a major undertaking, such as building the temple. The Hebrew root for "numbered" is "סָפַר" (safar), which means to count or recount. This action by Solomon reflects his administrative wisdom and organizational skills, traits that were essential for the monumental task of constructing the temple. It also shows continuity in leadership, as Solomon follows in the footsteps of his father, David.

all the foreign men
The term "foreign men" refers to non-Israelites residing in the land. These individuals were often laborers or craftsmen, skilled in various trades necessary for large construction projects. Historically, Israel was a melting pot of cultures and peoples, especially during Solomon's reign, which was marked by peace and prosperity. This inclusion of foreigners highlights the universal scope of God's plan, as even those outside the covenant community were used in the service of building the temple.

in the land of Israel
This phrase emphasizes the geographical and covenantal boundaries within which Solomon's kingdom operated. The land of Israel was not just a physical territory but a spiritual inheritance promised to the descendants of Abraham. The presence of foreign workers within this land underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to make Israel a blessing to all nations.

following the census his father David had conducted
This reference to David's earlier census connects Solomon's actions to his father's legacy. David's census, recorded in 1 Chronicles 21, was controversial and led to divine judgment due to its motivations. However, Solomon's census is portrayed positively, suggesting a legitimate and necessary preparation for temple construction. It reflects a lesson learned from the past, where the focus is on service to God rather than military might or personal pride.

and there were found to be 153,600 in all
The specific number of 153,600 indicates a large workforce, showcasing the scale and ambition of Solomon's temple project. This figure includes 70,000 burden-bearers, 80,000 stonecutters, and 3,600 overseers, as detailed in the surrounding verses. The precision of this number reflects the meticulous planning and organization required for such a grand endeavor. It also symbolizes the unity and cooperation of diverse peoples in achieving a common goal, foreshadowing the inclusive nature of God's kingdom.

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. In this verse, he is organizing labor for the temple construction.

2. David
Solomon's father, who previously conducted a census of the people. David's reign set the stage for Solomon's temple-building project.

3. Foreigners in Israel
These were non-Israelite residents in the land, often involved in labor and construction projects. Their presence highlights the diverse population within Israel during Solomon's reign.

4. Census
A systematic counting of the population, which in this context, was used to organize labor for the temple construction.

5. 153,600
The total number of foreigners counted, indicating the scale of labor available for Solomon's building projects.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Solomon's ability to organize such a large workforce demonstrates God's provision and sovereignty in equipping leaders to fulfill His purposes.

Inclusion and Diversity
The presence of foreigners in Israel's workforce reflects God's inclusive plan, where people from various backgrounds contribute to His work.

Preparation and Planning
Solomon's census underscores the importance of preparation and planning in executing God's work effectively.

Legacy and Continuity
Solomon's actions are a continuation of David's legacy, reminding us of the importance of building on the foundations laid by previous generations.

Work as Worship
The labor of the foreigners was integral to the construction of the temple, illustrating that all work done for God's glory is a form of worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's organization of labor reflect God's provision for His plans, and how can we apply this understanding to our own leadership roles?

2. In what ways does the inclusion of foreigners in Israel's workforce challenge or affirm our views on diversity within the church today?

3. How can we ensure that our preparation and planning for ministry align with God's purposes, as seen in Solomon's census?

4. What lessons can we learn from the continuity between David's and Solomon's reigns about building on the spiritual legacies of those who came before us?

5. How can we view our daily work as an act of worship, similar to how the labor of the foreigners contributed to the building of the temple?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 5
This chapter provides additional context on Solomon's preparations for building the temple, including his correspondence with Hiram of Tyre and the organization of labor.

Exodus 12:38
This verse mentions a "mixed multitude" that left Egypt with the Israelites, showing that non-Israelites have been part of the community since the Exodus.

1 Chronicles 22:2
David also gathered foreigners to prepare materials for the temple, showing continuity in the use of foreign labor for sacred projects.