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 presence of God. The Temple was built during the reign of King Solomon, the son of King David, who was chosen by God to construct this sacred edifice. The narrative of the Temple's construction is detailed in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, providing insight into the collaboration between Solomon and Hiram, the king of Tyre.
Solomon's Request to HiramSolomon's father, David, had established a friendly relationship with Hiram, king of Tyre, which Solomon continued. Recognizing the need for skilled labor and quality materials, Solomon reached out to Hiram to procure the necessary resources for the Temple's construction. In
1 Kings 5:6 , Solomon requests, "Now therefore, command that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay you for your servants according to whatever you say. For you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians."
Hiram's Response and AgreementHiram responded favorably to Solomon's request, expressing joy over Solomon's wisdom and the opportunity to assist in building a house for the Lord. In
1 Kings 5:8-9 , Hiram replies, "I have received your message; I will do all you desire regarding the cedar and cypress timber. My servants will bring the logs from Lebanon to the sea, and I will make them into rafts to go by sea to the place you indicate to me. There I will break them apart, and you can take them away. You will fulfill my desire by providing food for my household."
Materials and LaborThe agreement between Solomon and Hiram involved the supply of cedar and cypress wood from the forests of Lebanon, renowned for their quality and durability. Additionally, Hiram provided skilled laborers, particularly those adept in timber work, to assist Solomon's workforce. This collaboration highlights the importance of international relations and trade in the ancient Near East, as well as the shared respect for craftsmanship and resources.
Stone and LaborIn addition to the timber, Solomon required large quantities of stone for the Temple's foundation and structure.
1 Kings 5:17-18 notes, "At the king’s command they removed from the quarry large blocks of high-quality stone to provide a foundation of dressed stone for the temple. The craftsmen of Solomon and Hiram, along with the men of Gebal, cut and prepared the timber and stone for the construction of the temple."
The WorkforceThe workforce for the Temple's construction was vast and well-organized. Solomon conscripted laborers from among the Israelites, as described in
1 Kings 5:13-14 : "Then King Solomon conscripted a labor force of thirty thousand men from all Israel. He sent them to Lebanon in shifts of ten thousand per month, so that they would spend one month in Lebanon and two months at home. Adoniram was in charge of the forced labor."
SignificanceThe collaboration between Solomon and Hiram in the construction of the First Temple underscores the importance of wisdom, diplomacy, and resource management in fulfilling God's purposes. The Temple not only served as a physical manifestation of Israel's covenant with God but also as a testament to the unity and cooperation between nations in the service of a divine mission. The materials and labor provided by Hiram were instrumental in creating a structure that would become central to Israelite worship and identity for centuries.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Kings 5:6-12Now therefore command you that they hew me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and my servants shall be with your servants: and to you will I give hire for your servants according to all that you shall appoint: for you know that there is not among us any that can skill to hew timber like to the Sidonians.
Torrey's Topical Textbook2 Chronicles 2:8-10
Send me also cedar trees, fir trees, and algum trees, out of Lebanon: for I know that your servants can skill to cut timber in Lebanon; and, behold, my servants shall be with your servants,
Torrey's Topical Textbook
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The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
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Resources
What is the temple tax? | GotQuestions.orgHow many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the significance of the temple veil being torn in two when Jesus died? | GotQuestions.orgTemple: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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