Topical Bible: the First Temple: Solomon: Applied to Hiram for a Skilful Workman to Superintend

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Topical Encyclopedia

The construction of the First Temple, also known as Solomon's Temple, is a significant event in biblical history, marking a central place of worship for the Israelites and a dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant. King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom and wealth, undertook the monumental task of building this temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling the vision of his father, King David.

Biblical Context

The narrative of Solomon's Temple construction is primarily found in 1 Kings 5-7 and 2 Chronicles 2-4. Solomon's desire to build a house for the name of the LORD is rooted in the covenantal promises made to David, as recorded in 2 Samuel 7. Solomon's reign was characterized by peace and prosperity, providing the ideal conditions for such an ambitious project.

Solomon's Request to Hiram

To ensure the temple's construction was executed with the highest quality and craftsmanship, Solomon sought assistance from Hiram, the king of Tyre. Hiram had been a loyal friend to David and continued this alliance with Solomon. Recognizing the need for skilled artisans, Solomon requested Hiram to send a master craftsman to oversee the work.

1 Kings 5:6 records Solomon's request: "Now therefore, command that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay your servants whatever wages you set, for you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians."

Hiram's Response

Hiram responded favorably to Solomon's request, acknowledging the wisdom granted to Solomon by God. He agreed to supply the necessary materials and craftsmen. In 1 Kings 5:7 , Hiram's reaction is noted: "When Hiram received Solomon’s message, he rejoiced greatly and said, 'Blessed be the LORD today! He has given David a wise son over this great people.'"

The Skilled Craftsman: Huram-Abi

Hiram sent Huram-Abi, a man of exceptional skill, to assist Solomon. Huram-Abi was a craftsman of mixed heritage, with a Tyrian father and an Israelite mother from the tribe of Naphtali. His expertise was crucial in the temple's construction, particularly in working with bronze and other materials.

2 Chronicles 2:13-14 provides insight into Huram-Abi's qualifications: "So now I am sending you Huram-Abi, a skillful man endowed with understanding. He is the son of a woman from the daughters of Dan, and his father is a man of Tyre. He is trained to work in gold and silver, bronze and iron, stone and wood, and in purple, blue, and crimson yarn and fine linen. He is an expert in every kind of engraving and can execute any design given to him. He will work with your craftsmen and with those of my lord David your father."

Significance of the Collaboration

The collaboration between Solomon and Hiram, facilitated by the skilled work of Huram-Abi, underscores the importance of wisdom, diplomacy, and skilled labor in achieving great endeavors. The construction of the First Temple was not only a religious and cultural milestone for Israel but also a testament to the cooperative spirit between nations and the shared pursuit of excellence in craftsmanship.

The First Temple stood as a symbol of God's presence among His people and a focal point for worship and sacrifice, reflecting the glory and majesty of the God of Israel. Solomon's engagement with Hiram and the employment of a master craftsman like Huram-Abi highlight the divine orchestration and human effort that brought this sacred edifice into being.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 2:7,13,14
Send me now therefore a man cunning to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron, and in purple, and crimson, and blue, and that can skill to grave with the cunning men that are with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, whom David my father did provide.
Torrey's Topical Textbook