2 Chronicles 9:21

For the king had the ships of Tarshish that went with Hiram's servants, and once every three years the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks.

Study Bible

For the king’s ships
This phrase indicates the naval prowess and extensive trade networks established during King Solomon's reign. The Hebrew word for "ships" (אֳנִיּוֹת, 'oniyyot) suggests large, sea-worthy vessels capable of long voyages. Solomon's fleet symbolizes the peak of Israel's economic and political power, reflecting God's blessing and fulfillment of His promise to make Israel a great nation.

went to Tarshish
"Tarshish" is often associated with a distant, wealthy region, possibly located in present-day Spain or the western Mediterranean. The Hebrew term (תַּרְשִׁישׁ, Tarshish) evokes images of exotic lands and riches. This journey to Tarshish underscores the far-reaching influence and ambition of Solomon's kingdom, as well as the fulfillment of God's promise to extend Israel's borders and influence.

with the servants of Huram
Huram, or Hiram, was the king of Tyre, a Phoenician city known for its skilled sailors and craftsmen. The alliance between Solomon and Huram highlights the importance of strategic partnerships in achieving mutual prosperity. This collaboration reflects the wisdom of Solomon in securing resources and expertise beyond Israel's borders, demonstrating the interconnectedness of ancient Near Eastern politics and trade.

Every three years they would return
The phrase "every three years" suggests a well-organized and regular trade route, indicative of the stability and prosperity during Solomon's reign. This triennial cycle allowed for the accumulation of wealth and resources, contributing to the grandeur of Solomon's court and the temple. It also reflects the patience and foresight required in managing long-term ventures, a testament to Solomon's wisdom.

bringing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks
These items represent the wealth and luxury of Solomon's kingdom. Gold and silver were symbols of wealth and divine favor, often used in temple worship and royal adornment. Ivory, apes, and peacocks, likely imported from Africa or India, signify exoticism and the extent of Solomon's trade networks. The Hebrew words for these items (זָהָב, כֶּסֶף, שֵׁן, קוֹפִים, תֻּכִּיִּים) emphasize the diversity and richness of the goods, illustrating the fulfillment of God's promise to bless Israel abundantly. This abundance serves as a reminder of the potential for prosperity when a nation follows God's statutes and wisdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Solomon
The ruler of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and extensive building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem.

2. Tarshish
A distant port or region, often associated with wealth and trade, possibly located in the western Mediterranean.

3. Huram (Hiram)
The king of Tyre, an ally of Solomon, who provided materials and skilled labor for the construction of the Temple.

4. Ships of Tarshish
A fleet used for long voyages, symbolizing international trade and the wealth it brought to Solomon's kingdom.

5. Trade Goods
Gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks, representing the wealth and exotic nature of Solomon's trade endeavors.

Teaching Points

The Blessings of Wisdom and Obedience
Solomon's wealth and success in trade were a result of his God-given wisdom. When we seek God's wisdom and obey His commands, we can experience His blessings in our lives.

The Dangers of Materialism
While Solomon's wealth was a sign of God's blessing, it also serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for material wealth to lead us away from God. We must guard our hearts against the love of money.

God's Sovereignty in Provision
The international trade and wealth of Solomon's kingdom demonstrate God's ability to provide abundantly for His people. We can trust in God's provision for our needs.

The Importance of Alliances
Solomon's partnership with Huram of Tyre shows the value of forming alliances that honor God and contribute to His purposes. We should seek relationships that encourage our faith and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's trade with Tarshish reflect God's blessing on his reign, and what can we learn about seeking God's wisdom in our own lives?

2. In what ways can material wealth become a distraction from our relationship with God, and how can we guard against this in our daily lives?

3. How does the partnership between Solomon and Huram illustrate the importance of godly alliances, and what are some ways we can form such partnerships today?

4. Considering the wealth and trade of Solomon's kingdom, how can we trust in God's provision for our needs, even when resources seem scarce?

5. How do the references to the ships of Tarshish in other scriptures (e.g., Isaiah 2:16) provide a broader understanding of God's sovereignty and the eventual humbling of human pride?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 10:22
This verse parallels 2 Chronicles 9:21, providing additional context about Solomon's wealth and trade.

Isaiah 2:16
Mentions the ships of Tarshish in the context of human pride and the eventual humbling of the nations before God.

Ezekiel 27:12
Describes the wealth of Tyre, a trading partner of Israel, highlighting the extensive trade networks of the ancient world.