Then Solomon sent word to Hiram king of Tyre: "Do for me as you did for my father David when you sent him cedars to build himself a house to live in. Then Solomon sent wordThe phrase indicates a formal communication initiated by Solomon, the newly anointed king of Israel. The Hebrew root for "sent" is שָׁלַח (shalach), which often implies a purposeful dispatching of a message or envoy. This action reflects Solomon's wisdom and diplomatic acumen, as he seeks to establish international relations and secure resources for the temple construction. Historically, this demonstrates the importance of alliances in the ancient Near East, where trade and political relationships were crucial for national stability and prosperity. to Hiram king of Tyre As you dealt with my father David and sent him cedars to build himself a house to dwell in so deal with me Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonThe son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is known for his wisdom and for building the First Temple in Jerusalem. He is the central figure in this passage, seeking resources to construct the temple. 2. Hiram, King of Tyre A contemporary of both David and Solomon, Hiram was the king of Tyre, a city known for its skilled craftsmen and abundant resources, particularly cedar wood. 3. David Solomon's father, the second king of Israel, who had a close relationship with Hiram. David laid the groundwork for the temple by gathering materials and making plans, though he was not permitted by God to build it himself. 4. Tyre An ancient Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade, particularly in timber and skilled labor, which were crucial for Solomon's temple project. 5. The Temple The First Temple, also known as Solomon's Temple, was a significant religious and cultural project for Israel, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Teaching Points The Importance of Godly AlliancesSolomon's alliance with Hiram demonstrates the value of forming partnerships that honor God and further His purposes. Believers should seek relationships that support their spiritual goals. Building on a Legacy Solomon's request to Hiram builds on the foundation laid by David. We are called to honor the spiritual legacies of those who came before us and continue their work in faithfulness. Preparation and Provision Just as Solomon prepared meticulously for the temple, we should prepare our hearts and lives for God's work, trusting that He will provide the necessary resources. The Role of Wisdom in Leadership Solomon's wise approach to securing materials and labor reflects the importance of wisdom in leadership. We should seek God's wisdom in our decisions and actions. God's Presence Among His People The temple was a physical representation of God's presence. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live in a way that reflects His presence in us. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Solomon's relationship with Hiram reflect the importance of forming strategic partnerships in our own lives?2. In what ways can we build on the spiritual legacies of those who have come before us, as Solomon did with David's plans for the temple? 3. What steps can we take to prepare ourselves for the work God has called us to, and how can we trust Him to provide what we need? 4. How can we apply Solomon's wisdom in leadership to our own roles and responsibilities, whether in the church, family, or workplace? 5. Considering that believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, how should this truth impact the way we live and interact with others? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Kings 5This chapter provides a parallel account of Solomon's preparations for building the temple, including his correspondence with Hiram and the arrangements for materials and labor. 2 Samuel 7 This passage recounts God's covenant with David, where God promises that David's son will build a house for His name, establishing the divine mandate for Solomon's temple project. Exodus 25-31 These chapters describe the construction of the Tabernacle, the precursor to the temple, highlighting the continuity of God's dwelling place among His people.
People Abi, Dan, David, Hiram, Huram, SolomonPlaces Jerusalem, Joppa, Lebanon, TyreTopics Build, Building, Cedar, Cedars, Cedar-trees, David, Deal, Dealt, Dwell, Hast, Hiram, Huram, Logs, Message, Palace, Saying, Sending, Solomon, Therein, TyreDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Chronicles 2:3Library Hiram, the Inspired ArtificerBY REV. W. J. TOWNSEND, D.D. The Temple of Solomon was the crown of art in the old world. There were temples on a larger scale, and of more massive construction, but the enormous masses of masonry of the oldest nations were not comparable with the artistic grace, the luxurious adornments, and the harmonious proportions of this glorious House of God. David had laid up money and material for the great work, but he was not permitted to carry it out. He was a man of war, and blood-stained hands were … George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known Chronicles Links 2 Chronicles 2:3 NIV2 Chronicles 2:3 NLT 2 Chronicles 2:3 ESV 2 Chronicles 2:3 NASB 2 Chronicles 2:3 KJV 2 Chronicles 2:3 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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