2 Solomon the son of David established himself in his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him and made him exceedingly great.
2 Solomon spoke to all Israel, to the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, to the judges, and to all the leaders in all Israel, the heads of fathers’ houses.
3 So Solomon, and all the assembly with him, went to the high place that was at Gibeon, for the tent of meeting of God, which Moses the servant of the Lord had made in the wilderness, was there.
4 (Solomon) brought up the ark of God from the city of David, which is Zion.
5 Moreover, the bronze altar that Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, had made, was there before the tabernacle of the Lord. And Solomon and the assembly sought it out.
6 And Solomon went up there to the bronze altar before the Lord, which was at the tent of meeting, and offered a thousand burnt offerings on it.
7 In that night God appeared to Solomon, and said to him, “Ask what I shall give you.”
8 And Solomon said to God, “You have shown great and steadfast love to David my father, and have made me king in his place.
9 Now, O Lord God, let your promise to David my father be established, for you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth.
10 Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?
11 God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked long life, but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king,
12 wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have.
13 So Solomon came from the high place at Gibeon, from before the tent of meeting, to Jerusalem. And he reigned over Israel.
14 The chariots were imported from Egypt for 600 shekels of silver apiece and the horses for 150, and so through the king’s traders they were exported to all the kings of the Hittites and the kings of Syria.
15 And the king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stone, and he made cedar as plentiful as the sycamore of the Shephelah.
16 And Solomon’s import of horses was from Egypt and Kue, and the king’s traders received them from Kue at a price.
17 They imported a chariot from Egypt for 600 shekels of silver, and a horse for 150. Likewise through them these were exported to all the kings of the Hittites and the kings of Syria.
The True Meaning of 2 Chronicles 1
The Book of 2 Chronicles was written by the prophet Ezra, who was a scribe and priest in the time after the Babylonian exile. Ezra compiled the historical accounts of the kingdom of Judah, focusing on the reigns of the kings and their relationship with God. King Solomon, the son of King David, begins his reign in this chapter. Solomon inherits the throne and immediately seeks wisdom and understanding from God. This sets the stage for the great accomplishments and wealth that will define Solomon’s rule, as well as the challenges he will face in keeping the people faithful to God.
The chapter also references earlier events, such as God’s covenant with David in 1 Chronicles 17, highlighting the continuity of God’s plan for his people. Solomon’s choices impact the future of the kingdom and the legacy he leaves behind as we read.
2 Chronicles 1:1-6
The passage in 2 Chronicles 1:1-6 describes the beginning of Solomon’s reign as king of Israel and his journey to Gibeon to seek the Lord. This section serves as an important introduction to the pivotal events that will follow in Solomon’s reign.
Firstly, the verse states that Solomon formed a political alliance by marrying Pharaoh’s daughter, a common practice in the ancient world to establish diplomatic relations between countries. This act of marriage was not without consequences, as we see that Solomon allowed his foreign wives to turn his heart away from the Lord in the later part of his reign (1 Kings 11:1-4). This decision to intermarry would eventually lead to the downfall of his dynasty, highlighting the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God’s commands and the dangers of compromising one’s beliefs for political gain.
The focus then shifts to Solomon’s visit to the high place at Gibeon, where he offered a thousand burnt offerings to God. The significance of this act lies in Solomon’s desire to seek the Lord’s wisdom and guidance as he stepped into his role as king. Solomon showed his dedication and humility before God by offering such a substantial sacrifice, acknowledging his dependence on Him for wisdom and discernment in his leadership. This act underscores the importance of seeking God’s wisdom in all aspects of our lives, especially in positions of authority and decision-making. The choice of Gibeon as the location for this sacrifice is noteworthy. Gibeon was home to the tabernacle that Moses had constructed in the wilderness, housing the Ark of the Covenant and serving as a central place of worship for the Israelites before the construction of the temple in Jerusalem. Solomon was acknowledging and honoring the history and significance of this sacred place in the Israelites’ spiritual journey by going to Gibeon. This act emphasizes the continuity of God’s presence and guidance throughout the generations, from Moses to Solomon, highlighting the importance of honoring and valuing the spiritual heritage passed down to us. This passage sets the stage for the reign of Solomon, depicting his initial actions and attitudes as king. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God’s commands, the necessity of seeking His wisdom in all things, and the value of honoring our spiritual heritage. Through the story of Solomon, we are encouraged to prioritize our relationship with God above all else, seeking His guidance and remaining steadfast in our faith even in the face of temptations and worldly influences.
2 Chronicles 1:7-12
King Solomon’s address to God and God’s response to Solomon’s request break down the verse in 2 Chronicles 1:7-12. The passage narrates a significant moment in Solomon’s life where he visits the tabernacle at Gibeon to make sacrifices before God. This act underscores Solomon’s devotion to seeking God’s guidance and blessings as he embarks on his reign as the new king of Israel. The choice to visit the tabernacle, the sacred meeting place between God and His people, emphasizes the importance of seeking God in times of decision-making and leadership.
Solomon’s prayer in this passage demonstrates his humility and wisdom as he acknowledges God’s faithfulness to his father David and his own need for divine wisdom to govern the people of Israel effectively. Rather than asking for personal gain or power, Solomon requests discernment and understanding to lead God’s chosen people justly and wisely. This reflects the heart of a true servant-leader who prioritizes the well-being of his subjects over his own desires.
God’s response to Solomon’s prayer is both immediate and generous. Not only does God grant Solomon the wisdom he seeks, but He also promises him riches, wealth, and honor beyond that of any king before or after him. This reaffirms the biblical principle that when we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, all these things shall be added unto us (Matthew 6:33). Solomon is blessed abundantly in ways he did not even ask for by putting God’s will before his own, highlighting the importance of trusting in God’s plans and provisions.
The granting of wisdom to Solomon by God is a crucial turning point in his reign and sets the stage for his renowned wisdom displayed in the famous judgment involving the two women claiming the same child (1 Kings 3:16-28). This story becomes a timeless example of Solomon’s discernment and serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God’s promise in this passage. It shows that when we seek wisdom from God with pure intentions, He not only equips us for the task at hand but also exceeds our expectations in blessing us. This passage in 2 Chronicles 1:7-12 teaches us the importance of seeking God’s wisdom above all else, trusting in His provision, and prioritizing His will in our lives. It exemplifies the rewards of humility, faith, and obedience to God’s guidance, showcasing how God’s blessings far surpass what we could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). The narrative of Solomon’s prayer and God’s response serves as a powerful reminder for believers to seek God first in all their endeavors and witness the abundance of blessings that flow from aligning their hearts with His.
2 Chronicles 1:13-17
Several key sections in 2 Chronicles 1:13-17 can be highlighted for deeper reflection and understanding. Let’s break down these verses to uncover their significance and timeless messages.
-
“Then Solomon went to Jerusalem from the high place that was at Gibeon, from before the tent of meeting, and he reigned over Israel.”
This verse marks the transition of Solomon from a prayerful and humble seeker of wisdom at Gibeon to his active reign over Israel from Jerusalem. It emphasizes Solomon’s movement from a place of seeking God’s guidance to a position of leadership. It teaches us the importance of seeking divine wisdom before assuming positions of power or authority. This emphasizes the biblical principle found in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” -
“Solomon gathered chariots and horsemen. He had 1,400 chariots and 12,000 horsemen, whom he stationed in the chariot cities and with the king in Jerusalem.”
Here, we see Solomon’s military strength and preparedness. The mention of his chariots and horsemen highlights the importance of being prepared for defense and protection. While military might alone is not enough, Solomon’s actions underline the importance of being ready for any challenges that may arise. This military preparedness serves as a reminder that in our spiritual lives, we should also be vigilant and prepared for the battles we may face. Ephesians 6:10-18 encourages us to put on the armor of God to stand against the devil’s schemes. -
“And the king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stone, and he made cedar as plentiful as the sycamore of the Shephelah.”
This verse demonstrates the wealth and prosperity that marked Solomon’s reign. His abundance of silver, gold, and cedar symbolize the opulence and grandeur of his kingdom. While material wealth can be a blessing from God, it also poses the danger of distractions and temptations. This verse reminds us of the caution found in 1 Timothy 6:10, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” It serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of wealth and the importance of stewardship. -
“And Solomon’s import of horses was from Egypt and Kue, and the king’s traders received them from Kue at a price.”
Solomon’s import of horses from Egypt and Kue reflects both his strategic thinking in strengthening his military capabilities and his engagement in international trade. The mention of trade routes and commerce emphasizes the economic prosperity of his kingdom and his ability to establish beneficial relationships with other nations. While trade and partnerships are essential for growth, it also serves as a reminder to be cautious of the influences and dependencies that can come with such interactions. This verse prompts us to consider our own alliances and interactions, ensuring that they align with godly principles and values. 2 Chronicles 1:13-17 provides valuable insights into Solomon’s transition to kingship, his military preparedness, his wealth and prosperity, and his engagement in trade. These verses offer timeless lessons on seeking God’s wisdom, being prepared for challenges, managing wealth, and maintaining integrity in relationships. We reflect on Solomon’s actions and their implications, reminding us of the importance of faith, discernment, and stewardship in all aspects of our lives.
After 2 Chronicles 1
The young king Solomon had humbly asked God for wisdom to lead the people. And God granted his request, bestowing upon him an understanding heart and great knowledge. With this divine gift, Solomon set out to build the temple of the Lord, a magnificent structure that would stand as a testament to God’s glory. Yet, as the final stones were laid, the reverend knew that the true test of Solomon’s reign was yet to come. For the wisdom he had been given would be put to the ultimate trial, as the king faced the challenges and temptations that lay ahead.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.