◄ 2 Chronicles 1 ►
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Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom (1 Kings 3:1–15; Psalm 45:1–17; Psalm 72:1–20) 1Now Solomon son of David established himself securely over his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him and highly exalted him. 2Then Solomon spoke to all Israel, to the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, to the judges, and to every leader in all Israel—the heads of the families. 3And Solomon and the whole assembly went to the high place at Gibeon because it was the location of God’s Tent of Meeting, which Moses the servant of the LORD had made in the wilderness. 4Now David had brought the ark of God from Kiriath-jearim to the place he had prepared for it, because he had pitched a tent for it in Jerusalem. 5But the bronze altar made by Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, was in Gibeon beforea the tabernacle of the LORD. So Solomon and the assembly inquired of Him there. 6Solomon offered sacrifices there before the LORD on the bronze altar at the Tent of Meeting, where he offered a thousand burnt offerings. 7That night God appeared to Solomon and said, “Ask, and I will give it to you!” 8Solomon replied to God: “You have shown much loving devotionb to my father David, and You have made me king in his place. 9Now, O LORD God, let Your promise to my father David be fulfilled. For You have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. 10Now grant me wisdom and knowledge, so that I may lead this people.c For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?” 11God said to Solomon, “Since this was in your heart instead of requesting riches or wealth or honor for yourself or death for your enemies—and since you have not even requested long life but have asked for wisdom and knowledge to govern My people over whom I have made you king— 12therefore wisdom and knowledge have been granted to you. And I will also give you riches and wealth and honor unlike anything given to the kings before you or after you.” 13So Solomon went to Jerusalem from the high place in Gibeon, from before the Tent of Meeting, and he reigned over Israel. Solomon’s Riches (1 Kings 10:26–29) 14Solomon accumulatedd 1,400 chariots and 12,000 horses,e which he stationed in the chariot cities and also with him in Jerusalem. 15The king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills.f 16Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue;g the royal merchants purchased them from Kue. 17A chariot could be imported from Egypt for six hundred shekels of silver,h and a horse for a hundred and fifty.i Likewise, they exported them to all the kings of the Hittites and to the kings of Aram. Footnotes: 5 a LXX, Vulgate, and some Hebrew manuscripts was there before; MT he placed before 8 b Forms of the Hebrew chesed are translated here and in most cases throughout the Scriptures as loving devotion; the range of meaning includes love, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, and mercy, as well as loyalty to a covenant. 10 c Literally so that I may go out before this people and come in 14 d Literally Solomon accumulated chariots and horses; he had 14 e Or horsemen or charioteers 15 f Hebrew Shephelah or lowlands; that is, the western foothills of Judea 16 g Probably an area in Cilicia, a province in the southeast of Asia Minor 17 h 600 shekels is approximately 15.1 pounds or 6.8 kilograms of silver. 17 i 150 shekels is approximately 3.8 pounds or 1.7 kilograms of silver. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Chronicles 1 Summary Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom Verses 1–6 – Solomon’s Secure Start and Worship at Gibeon Solomon firmly establishes his rule because “the LORD his God was with him and highly exalted him.” He gathers Israel’s leaders and heads to the major high place at Gibeon, where Moses’ original Tent of Meeting still stands. Though the ark already rests in Jerusalem, the bronze altar remains at Gibeon, so Solomon offers a spectacular one-thousand-burnt-offering sacrifice there. Verses 7–13 – God’s Offer, Solomon’s Request, and the Blessing That same night, God appears and says, “Ask, and I will give it to you.” Solomon asks for “wisdom and knowledge” to lead God’s countless people. Pleased, the LORD grants him the requested discernment and also adds riches, wealth, and honor beyond any king before or after. Solomon returns to Jerusalem to reign. Verses 14–17 – Wealth, Trade, and Military Strength The chapter ends by recording Solomon’s massive chariot force (1,400 chariots and 12,000 horses), his silver and gold “more abundant…than stones,” and his profitable horse-and-chariot trade with Egypt, Kue, the Hittites, and the Arameans. 2 Chronicles 1 narrates the beginning of Solomon's reign over Israel. It centers around his humble plea to God for wisdom and understanding, his encounter with God at the Tent of Meeting in Gibeon, and the subsequent blessings that he receives from the Lord in the form of unprecedented wisdom, wealth, and power. This chapter provides a profound illustration of Solomon's humility and dependence on God, as well as God's benevolent response to those who seek Him earnestly. Historical Context and Purpose Chronicles was written after the Babylonian exile to remind a restored community of its true heritage. By opening Solomon’s reign with God’s favor and Solomon’s worship, the narrator highlights that blessing flows from submission to God. The scene summarizes what faithfulness looks like for a post-exilic audience starting over. Chronological Setting • Circa 971 BC: Solomon becomes king (1 Kings 2:12). • Chapter 1 describes early reign events that parallel 1 Kings 3:3-15. • Gibeon is roughly six miles northwest of Jerusalem—close enough for regular worship but distinct in purpose while the temple is not yet built (2 Chron 1:3). Geographical Notes • Gibeon: Elevated city with a prominent high place (cf. Joshua 9). • Jerusalem: Political and covenant center because the ark is there (1 Chron 15:1-3). • “Chariot cities” such as Megiddo, Hazor, and Gezer housed the king’s military hardware (1 Kings 9:15-19). Archaeological Insights • Large Late Bronze and Iron Age fortifications discovered at Gibeon match its description as a strategic town. • Stables unearthed at Megiddo dating to Solomon’s era could hold hundreds of horses, supporting the biblical claim of vast cavalry forces. • Egyptian records list Kue (Cilicia) as a horse-breeding region, confirming the trade routes mentioned in 1:16. Key Themes and Theological Threads 1. Divine Favor and Human Responsibility – God “was with” Solomon (1:1), echoing promises to Joshua (Joshua 1:5). – Solomon responds with worship and humility, modeling Deuteronomy’s call to seek the LORD first (Deuteronomy 6:5). 2. Wisdom Over Wealth – Solomon’s request prioritizes his mission over self-advancement (cf. Matthew 6:33). – The LORD adds material abundance afterward—an Old-Covenant illustration of Psalm 37:4: “Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” 3. Continuity with Moses and David – Moses’ tent and altar—Solomon links his reign to Sinai worship. – David’s ark transfer—Solomon builds on his father’s preparations (1 Chron 22:5). – Chronicles weaves a seamless history from Moses through David to Solomon, underscoring covenant continuity. 4. Preparation for the Temple – The trip to Gibeon anticipates the centralized worship that will soon move permanently to Jerusalem (2 Chron 3:1). – By using the bronze altar, Solomon respects established worship patterns before innovation. Connections to Other Scriptures • 1 Kings 3 parallels: Chronicles omits Solomon’s marriage alliance with Pharaoh’s daughter (1 Kings 3:1-2) to keep focus on covenant faithfulness. • Deuteronomy 17:14-20: God’s guidelines for kings—avoid excess horses, silver, and foreign alliances. Chronicles records Solomon’s early buildup, already foreshadowing later problems (2 Chron 9:28; 1 Kings 11). • James 1:5 urges believers to ask God for wisdom—Solomon’s account stands as the classic Old Testament example. Symbolism of the Bronze Altar • Crafted by Bezalel (Exodus 38:1-2), the altar embodies atonement and access. • Solomon’s 1,000 offerings reflect exuberant gratitude and public dedication. • The sheer number dramatizes the sufficiency of sacrifice, pointing forward to the once-for-all offering of Christ (Hebrews 10:12). The Gift of Wisdom Described Wisdom (Hebrew ḥokmah) in Solomon’s life is practical skill for leadership—insight to render justice, structure governance, and negotiate treaties (1 Kings 4:29-34). It is not mere intellect but Spirit-given capacity to live rightly (Proverbs 9:10). Solomon’s Economic Policy • Horses and chariots enhance security and international prestige. • Trade with Egypt and Kue positions Israel as a regional broker. • The Chronicler’s note that silver and gold were “as stones” illustrates both blessing and potential snare—riches can dull dependence on God (cf. 1 Timothy 6:9-10). Comparison with David’s Early Reign • Both David (1 Chron 11-12) and Solomon receive immediate divine favor. • David conquers militarily; Solomon excels administratively and economically. • Each demonstrates key aspects of kingship: David—heart after God; Solomon—mind shaped by God. Messianic Foreshadowing • Solomon’s wisdom, peace, and wealth prefigure the greater Son of David (Isaiah 11:1-5). • Christ claims to be “greater than Solomon” (Matthew 12:42), offering perfect wisdom and an everlasting kingdom. Lessons for Modern Readers 1. Prioritize God’s presence; He is the source of security (1:1). 2. When given an open-ended opportunity, ask for what honors God and blesses others (1:7-10). 3. Abundance can be a gift, but guard the heart so success does not breed compromise (Deuteronomy 8:11-18). 4. True wisdom is available to any believer who seeks it sincerely (James 1:5). Literary Structure of the Chapter • Verses 1-6: Setting—Solomon’s devotional act. • Verses 7-13: Dialogue—God’s offer and Solomon’s request. • Verses 14-17: Result—national prosperity and global influence. The neat three-panel design underscores cause (worship) → grant (wisdom) → effect (prosperity). Conclusion 2 Chronicles 1 sets the tone for Solomon’s reign: a ruler who begins with worship, asks for wisdom, and receives overflowing blessing. It challenges every generation to start at God’s altar, seek His mind, and steward His gifts wisely. Connections to Additional Scriptures James 1:5 Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. Proverbs 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. Teaching Points Solomon's Worship and Sacrifice Solomon begins his reign by leading the entire assembly to the high place at Gibeon to offer sacrifices, demonstrating his commitment to honoring God. (2 Chronicles 1:6) God's Offer to Solomon God appears to Solomon and offers him anything he desires. This divine encounter highlights God's willingness to bless those who seek Him. (2 Chronicles 1:7) Solomon's Request for Wisdom Solomon asks for wisdom and knowledge to govern the people effectively, prioritizing God's will and the needs of the nation over personal gain. (2 Chronicles 1:10) God's Response Pleased with Solomon's request, God grants him wisdom and knowledge, along with riches, wealth, and honor, surpassing any king before or after him. (2 Chronicles 1:11-12) Practical Applications Prioritize God's Wisdom Like Solomon, we should seek God's wisdom in our decisions, valuing it above material wealth or personal ambition. Lead with Humility Solomon's request reflects a heart of humility and service. We should strive to lead others with the same mindset. Trust in God's Provision When we align our desires with God's will, He provides abundantly, often beyond our expectations. Worship as a Foundation Begin every endeavor with worship and dedication to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His guidance. People 1. Solomon Solomon is the central figure in 2 Chronicles 1. He is the son of David and the newly anointed king of Israel. The chapter highlights his request for wisdom from God to govern the people effectively. The Hebrew root for Solomon's name is "שְׁלֹמֹה" (Shelomoh), which is derived from "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), meaning peace. 2. David Although not directly involved in the events of this chapter, David is mentioned as Solomon's father. David's legacy and his preparations for the temple are significant backdrops to Solomon's reign. The Hebrew root for David's name is "דָּוִד" (Dawid), meaning beloved. 3. The LORD (Yahweh) God is a central figure in this chapter, responding to Solomon's request for wisdom. The interaction between Solomon and God underscores the importance of divine guidance and blessing. The Hebrew name for the LORD is "יהוה" (YHWH), often rendered as Yahweh, signifying the eternal and self-existent nature of God. Places 1. Gibeon Gibeon is mentioned as the location of the high place where Solomon went to offer sacrifices. It was significant because the tabernacle of the LORD, which Moses had made in the wilderness, was located there. The Hebrew root for Gibeon is "גִּבְעוֹן" (Giv'on), which means "hill city." 2. Jerusalem Jerusalem is where Solomon returned after offering sacrifices at Gibeon. It is the city where Solomon reigned as king over Israel. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which is often understood to mean "foundation of peace." Events 1. Solomon's Establishment as King Solomon, the son of David, is firmly established as king over Israel. The text emphasizes that "the LORD his God was with him and highly exalted him" (2 Chronicles 1:1). The Hebrew root for "exalted" (גָּדַל, gadal) conveys the idea of making great or magnifying, indicating God's favor upon Solomon. 2. Solomon's Assembly at Gibeon Solomon gathers all Israel, including commanders, judges, and leaders, to the high place at Gibeon, where the tent of meeting was located (2 Chronicles 1:2-3). This assembly signifies a unified nation under Solomon's leadership. 3. The Bronze Altar and Sacrifices Solomon and the assembly go to the bronze altar before the LORD at the tent of meeting, where Solomon offers a thousand burnt offerings (2 Chronicles 1:5-6). The act of offering sacrifices is a demonstration of worship and dedication to God. 4. God's Appearance to Solomon That night, God appears to Solomon and says, "Ask for whatever you want Me to give you" (2 Chronicles 1:7). This divine encounter highlights God's willingness to bless Solomon and the importance of seeking God's wisdom. 5. Solomon's Request for Wisdom Solomon asks God for wisdom and knowledge to lead the people, acknowledging his own limitations and the greatness of the task (2 Chronicles 1:8-10). The Hebrew word for wisdom (חָכְמָה, chokmah) encompasses skill, insight, and understanding. 6. God's Response and Blessing God grants Solomon wisdom and knowledge, and additionally promises him wealth, possessions, and honor, surpassing any king before or after him (2 Chronicles 1:11-12). This response underscores the biblical principle that seeking God's wisdom leads to additional blessings. 7. Solomon's Wealth and Power The chapter concludes by describing Solomon's accumulation of wealth and military power, including chariots and horses, and his trade in horses and chariots with Egypt and other nations (2 Chronicles 1:14-17). This prosperity is seen as a fulfillment of God's promise and a testament to Solomon's wise governance. Lessons from 2 Chronicles 1 1. Seek Wisdom Above All Else In 2 Chronicles 1, Solomon's first act as king was to seek wisdom from God. When God appeared to him and asked what he desired, Solomon requested wisdom and knowledge to lead his people. This teaches us the importance of prioritizing wisdom over material wealth or power. As it is written, "Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people" (2 Chronicles 1:10). In our daily lives, seeking divine wisdom can guide us to make decisions that honor God and benefit others. 2. God Honors Selfless Requests Solomon's request for wisdom was not for personal gain but for the benefit of his people. God was pleased with this selfless request and granted him not only wisdom but also riches and honor. "Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked for riches, wealth, or honor... I will give you wisdom and knowledge" (2 Chronicles 1:11-12). When our desires align with God's will and the well-being of others, He often blesses us beyond our expectations. 3. The Power of Worship Before making his request, Solomon offered sacrifices to God at the high place in Gibeon. This act of worship set the stage for his encounter with God. Worship is a powerful way to connect with the Creator and align our hearts with His purposes. "Solomon went up there before the LORD to the bronze altar... and offered a thousand burnt offerings on it" (2 Chronicles 1:6). Regular worship keeps us grounded and focused on what truly matters. 4. Leadership Requires Divine Guidance Solomon understood that leading a nation was a task beyond human capability without divine guidance. His request for wisdom underscores the necessity of seeking God's direction in leadership roles. Whether leading a family, a team, or a community, we should always seek God's wisdom to guide our actions and decisions. 5. God’s Generosity Knows No Bounds God's response to Solomon's request demonstrates His boundless generosity. Not only did He grant Solomon wisdom, but He also gave him wealth and honor. "I will also give you riches, wealth, and honor, unlike anything given to the kings before you or after you" (2 Chronicles 1:12). This reminds us that God is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine when we align our hearts with His will. 6. The Importance of Humility Solomon's approach to God was marked by humility. He acknowledged his need for wisdom to govern the people effectively. Humility is a key trait for anyone seeking to grow spiritually and lead others. By recognizing our limitations and relying on God, we open ourselves to His guidance and blessings. 7. God’s Presence is Our Greatest Asset Solomon's encounter with God at Gibeon highlights the importance of God's presence in our lives. It is His presence that empowers us, provides wisdom, and brings peace. "That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, 'Ask for whatever you want Me to give you'" (2 Chronicles 1:7). Prioritizing time in God's presence can transform our lives and equip us for the challenges we face. 8. The Legacy of a Godly Parent Solomon's desire for wisdom was influenced by his father David's legacy. David's relationship with God set a foundation for Solomon's reign. This illustrates the impact a godly parent can have on their children. By living a life that honors God, we can inspire future generations to seek Him and His wisdom. 9. God’s Promises are Faithful The fulfillment of God's promise to Solomon is a testament to His faithfulness. When God makes a promise, He keeps it. "I will give you wisdom and knowledge" (2 Chronicles 1:12). Trusting in God's promises provides us with hope and assurance, knowing that He is faithful to His word. 10. The Pursuit of God’s Kingdom Solomon's story encourages us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. When we prioritize God's kingdom, everything else falls into place. "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33). By focusing on God's purposes, we align ourselves with His blessings and guidance. Topics 1. Solomon's Establishment as King Solomon, son of David, is firmly established as king over Israel. The text emphasizes that "the LORD his God was with him and highly exalted him" (2 Chronicles 1:1). The Hebrew word for "exalted" is "גָּדַל" (gadal), indicating that God made Solomon great in stature and influence. 2. Solomon's Assembly at Gibeon Solomon gathers all Israel, including commanders, judges, and leaders, to the high place at Gibeon, where the tent of meeting was located (2 Chronicles 1:2-3). This assembly signifies the unity and centralization of worship under Solomon's reign. 3. The Bronze Altar and Sacrifices Solomon offers a thousand burnt offerings on the bronze altar at the tent of meeting (2 Chronicles 1:6). The Hebrew term for "burnt offerings" is "עֹלוֹת" (olot), which signifies offerings that are completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God. 4. God's Offer to Solomon God appears to Solomon at night and offers him anything he desires (2 Chronicles 1:7). This divine encounter underscores the special relationship between God and Solomon, as well as the importance of divine wisdom in leadership. 5. Solomon's Request for Wisdom Solomon requests wisdom and knowledge to govern the people effectively, acknowledging his own limitations and the greatness of the task (2 Chronicles 1:10). The Hebrew words for "wisdom" and "knowledge" are "חָכְמָה" (chokmah) and "מַדָּע" (madda), respectively, highlighting the intellectual and practical skills needed for governance. 6. God's Response and Blessing Pleased with Solomon's request, God grants him wisdom and knowledge, as well as riches, wealth, and honor beyond any other king (2 Chronicles 1:11-12). This response illustrates the biblical principle that seeking God's wisdom leads to additional blessings. 7. Solomon's Wealth and Power The chapter concludes with a description of Solomon's wealth and military power, including chariots and horses, and his trade in horses from Egypt (2 Chronicles 1:14-17). The accumulation of wealth and military resources reflects the prosperity and security of Solomon's reign, though it also foreshadows potential challenges related to reliance on material wealth. Themes 1. Divine Wisdom and Knowledge Solomon's request for wisdom and knowledge is central to this chapter. In 2 Chronicles 1:10, Solomon asks, "Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people." The Hebrew words for wisdom ("חָכְמָה" - chokmah) and knowledge ("דַּעַת" - da'ath) emphasize the importance of divine insight and understanding in leadership. 2. God's Generosity and Blessing God's response to Solomon's request highlights His generosity. In 2 Chronicles 1:11-12, God says, "Because this was in your heart... I will also give you wealth, possessions, and honor." This underscores the theme of God's abundant blessings when one's desires align with His will. 3. The Importance of Worship and Sacrifice The chapter begins with Solomon and the assembly going to the high place at Gibeon to offer sacrifices (2 Chronicles 1:3-6). This act of worship signifies the importance of seeking God's presence and favor through sacrificial offerings, a practice rooted in the Hebrew tradition of covenant relationship with God. 4. Leadership and Responsibility Solomon's request for wisdom is directly tied to his role as a leader. In 2 Chronicles 1:10, he expresses the need for wisdom "to govern this great people of Yours." This theme highlights the responsibility of leaders to seek divine guidance in fulfilling their duties. 5. God's Covenant with David The chapter reflects on God's covenantal promises to David, which are being fulfilled through Solomon. In 2 Chronicles 1:9, Solomon refers to "the promise You made to my father David," emphasizing the continuity of God's faithfulness across generations. Prayer Points Seek God's Wisdom Pray for a heart that desires God's wisdom above all else, especially in leadership and decision-making. Cultivate Humility Ask God to help you lead with humility and a servant's heart, prioritizing the needs of others. Trust in God's Provision Pray for faith to trust in God's provision and timing, knowing that He rewards those who seek Him earnestly. Commit to Worship Dedicate time to worship and honor God in all aspects of life, seeking His presence and guidance daily. Answering Tough Questions 1. 2 Chronicles 1:7 – How could God physically appear to Solomon and speak to him, and what evidence supports this event? 2. 2 Chronicles 1:10 – Is there historical or archeological proof that Solomon’s wisdom and wealth matched the biblical account? 3. 2 Chronicles 1:14 – Are there reliable extra-biblical sources confirming Solomon’s vast numbers of chariots and horses? 4. 2 Chronicles 1:16–17 – Does the mention of imported chariots and horses align with known trade routes and historical trade practices of that era? 5. 2 Chronicles 1 – Why does this passage emphasize Solomon’s grandeur when other records of his reign mention serious moral and political failures? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What characteristics of Solomon are depicted in 2 Chronicles 1? 2. How did Solomon demonstrate his humility in his prayer to God? 3. In what ways did God fulfill His promises to Solomon? 4. How does Solomon's approach to asking God for help contrast with how you usually ask for help in your life? 5. Why do you think God was pleased with Solomon's request for wisdom instead of riches or victory over his enemies? 6. How can we apply the principle of seeking divine wisdom over worldly riches in today's context? 7. What does Solomon's early reign teach us about effective leadership? 8. Discuss the importance of sacrifice in 2 Chronicles 1. How does this relate to sacrifices we make in our lives? 9. How can Solomon's decision to seek God's wisdom influence your personal and professional decisions? 10. How does 2 Chronicles 1 reflect the relationship between God and those who earnestly seek Him? 11. What can we learn from Solomon's wealth as a blessing from God? 12. How does the concept of divine blessing manifest in your life today? 13. How can you use your resources to glorify God as Solomon did? 14. How can Solomon's encounter with God at Gibeon influence your perspective on prayer and communication with God? 15. How does the depiction of Solomon's wealth challenge or affirm your views on prosperity? 16. In what ways can God's response to Solomon's prayer encourage you in your walk with God? 17. How would you handle receiving blessings as immense as Solomon's in your life today? 18. How would you utilize divine wisdom if you were granted it today? 19. How can we ensure that we use God's blessings wisely and not misuse them? 20. What practical steps can you take to seek wisdom in your life, and how would it impact your relationships, career, and personal growth? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions