Building God’s House: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on 2 Chronicles 2

Executive Summary

2 Chronicles 2, detailing David’s and Solomon’s preparations for building the Temple in Jerusalem, provides a powerful example of diligent obedience, international cooperation, and unwavering faith. This chapter illuminates the importance of utilizing God-given gifts, seeking wisdom in leadership, and recognizing the limitations of human capabilities in constructing a house fit for the Almighty. From Solomon’s request to Hiram, King of Tyre, for skilled craftsmen and materials to his declaration of God’s immeasurable glory, the chapter underscores the spiritual significance of every act of service and the essential role of divine providence in achieving God’s purposes. The chapter is not just a historical record but also a call to us, even today, to build our own spiritual temples with unwavering dedication and reliance on God’s grace. We can get the tools we need to start building our spiritual temples at dohost.us services.

This commentary will explore the rich spiritual insights embedded within each verse, drawing upon the wisdom of the Church Fathers and the broader context of Scripture. Our Focus Key Phrase will be: Building God’s House, which encapsulates the core theme of the chapter.

Commentary: Verse by Verse

2 Chronicles 2:1 (KJV)

Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the Lord, and an house for his kingdom.

2 Chronicles 2:1 (NKJV): Now Solomon determined to build a house for the name of the Lord, and a royal house for himself.

Solomon’s determination signifies more than just architectural ambition; it reflects a profound commitment to fulfilling his father David’s desire (1 Chronicles 22:14). He understands this is not just about a structure but about honoring the “name of the Lord.” The Coptic Orthodox tradition emphasizes the power of the Name, invoking it in our prayers and sacraments. This echoes in the Psalms, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7). Building a house for the Lord and a royal house for himself shows the intertwining of earthly governance and spiritual responsibility. Spiritual Application: Consider how our personal ambitions can be aligned with God’s will. Do we strive for excellence not only in worldly pursuits but also in building up the body of Christ?

2 Chronicles 2:2 (KJV)

And Solomon told out threescore and ten thousand men to bear burdens, and fourscore thousand to hew in the mountain, and three thousand and six hundred to oversee them.

2 Chronicles 2:2 (NKJV): Solomon appointed seventy thousand men to be bearers of burdens, eighty thousand to be hewers of stone in the mountains, and three thousand six hundred as overseers to direct them.

The sheer scale of Solomon’s workforce highlights the massive undertaking. The numbers themselves are symbolic. Seventy thousand is linked to the seventy elders Moses appointed (Numbers 11:16), representing a breadth of experience and labor. Eighty thousand symbolizes abundance, perhaps the abundance of resources and commitment required. The overseers, 3,600 in number, represent diligence and organization. Historical Context: The mountains surrounding Jerusalem, rich in limestone, were crucial for construction. This reflects the ancient world’s dependence on natural resources. Spiritual Application: God calls us to use our talents and abilities, large or small, for His glory. Even seemingly mundane tasks, when performed in faith, contribute to the building of God’s Kingdom. Each one of us contributes to the “Building God’s House” in unique and important ways.

2 Chronicles 2:3-6

And Solomon sent to Huram the king of Tyre, saying, As thou didst deal with David my father, and didst send him cedars to build him an house to dwell therein, even so deal with me. Behold, I build an house to the name of the Lord my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the Lord our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel. And the house which I build is great: for great is our God above all gods. But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him?

2 Chronicles 2:3-6 (NKJV): Then Solomon sent to Huram king of Tyre, saying: “As you dealt with David my father, and sent him cedars to build himself a house to dwell in, so deal with me, that I may build a house for the name of the Lord my God, to dedicate it to Him, to burn before Him sweet incense, for the continual showbread, for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the Sabbaths, on the New Moons, and on the set feasts of the Lord our God. This is an ordinance forever to Israel. And the temple which I build shall be great, for our God is greater than all gods. But who is able to build Him a temple, since heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain Him? Who am I then, that I should build Him a temple, except to burn sacrifice before Him?

Solomon’s address to Hiram highlights diplomacy and recognizing interdependence. The mention of cedar wood from Lebanon emphasizes the value of skilled craftsmanship and resources from afar. “Great is our God above all gods” is not an assertion of polytheism but rather acknowledges the perception of other nations while simultaneously proclaiming the supremacy of Yahweh. Solomon’s humility shines through in his rhetorical question, “Who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him?” St. Augustine said, “Si comprehendis, non est Deus” (“If you understand Him, He is not God.”) (Augustine, *De Trinitate*, Book VIII, Chapter 3). This echoes the Coptic Orthodox understanding of God’s incomprehensibility. Spiritual Application: Acknowledge God’s greatness and your own limitations. Serve with humility and recognize that our efforts are only meaningful through His grace. Building “God’s House” today means striving to serve God within our churches and within our hearts, recognizing God’s greatness and our own limitations, and embracing humility.

2 Chronicles 2:7-10

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. Send me also cedar trees, fir trees, and algum trees, out of Lebanon: for I know that thy servants can skill to cut timber in Lebanon; and, behold, my servants shall be with thy servants, Even to prepare me timber in abundance: for the house which I am about to build shall be wonderful great. And, behold, I will give to thy servants, the hewers that cut timber, twenty thousand measures of beaten wheat, and twenty thousand measures of barley, and twenty thousand baths of wine, and twenty thousand baths of oil.

2 Chronicles 2:7-10 (NKJV): Therefore send me at once a man skillful to work in gold, silver, bronze, iron, purple, crimson, and blue, who has skill to engrave with the skillful men who are with me in Judah and Jerusalem, whom David my father provided. Also send me cedar, cypress, and algum trees from Lebanon, for I know that your servants have skill to cut timber in Lebanon; and indeed my servants will be with your servants, to prepare timber for me in abundance, for the temple which I am about to build shall be great and wonderful. And indeed I will give to your servants, the woodsmen who cut timber, twenty thousand kors of ground wheat, twenty thousand kors of barley, twenty thousand baths of wine, and twenty thousand baths of oil.

Solomon’s detailed request underscores the importance of expertise. The specific materials listed (gold, silver, bronze, iron, purple, crimson, and blue) symbolize royalty, purity, strength, and holiness. The reference to cedar, cypress and algum trees, and the abundance of food provided to the workers further accentuates the magnitude of the task. Spiritual Application: God equips us with diverse gifts. We should utilize our skills and talents to contribute to the building up of His Kingdom. Practical Application: Just as Solomon valued skilled labor, we should value those who contribute through their talents, whether they be artists, builders, or teachers.

2 Chronicles 2:11-16

Then Huram the king of Tyre answered in writing, which he sent to Solomon, Because the Lord hath loved his people, he hath made thee king over them. Huram said moreover, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, that made heaven and earth, who hath given to David the king a wise son, endued with prudence and understanding, that might build an house for the Lord, and an house for his kingdom. And now I have sent a cunning man, endued with understanding, of Huram my father’s, The son of a woman of the daughters of Dan, and his father was a man of Tyre, skillful to work in gold, and in silver, in brass, in iron, in stone, and in timber, in purple, in blue, and in fine linen, and in crimson; also to grave any manner of graving, and to find out every device which shall be put to him, with thy cunning men, and with the cunning men of my lord David thy father. Now therefore the wheat, and the barley, the oil, and the wine, which my lord hath spoken of, let him send unto his servants: And we will cut wood out of Lebanon, as much as thou shalt need: and we will bring it to thee in floats by sea to Joppa; and thou shalt carry it up to Jerusalem.

2 Chronicles 2:11-16 (NKJV): Then Huram king of Tyre answered in writing, which he sent to Solomon: “Because the Lord loves His people, He has made you king over them.” Huram also said: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who made heaven and earth, who has given King David a wise son, endowed with prudence and understanding, who will build a temple for the Lord and a royal house for himself! And now I have sent a skillful man, endowed with understanding, whose name is Huram Abi. He is the son of a woman of the daughters of Dan, and his father was a man of Tyre; he is skilled to work in gold and silver, bronze and iron, stone and wood, purple and blue, fine linen and crimson, and to make any engraving and to accomplish any plan which shall be given to him, with your skillful men and with the skillful men of my lord David your father. Now therefore, the wheat, the barley, the oil, and the wine which my lord has spoken of, let him send to his servants. And we will cut wood from Lebanon, as much as you need; and we will bring it to you in rafts by sea to Joppa; and you will carry it up to Jerusalem.

Hiram’s response is remarkable for its acknowledgment of the Lord and His love for Israel. He attributes Solomon’s kingship to God’s favor. He blesses the Lord God of Israel and recognizes Solomon’s wisdom as a divine gift. The description of Huram Abi’s skills emphasizes the breadth of his talent. The agreed-upon logistical arrangements (floating timber to Joppa) demonstrate practical cooperation. Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria saw in this cooperation a foreshadowing of the unity of the Church, comprised of Jews and Gentiles, working together for the glory of God (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Isaiah*, Book IV, Homily 2). Spiritual Application: Recognize God’s hand in all things. Give thanks for the gifts and talents of others, and strive for unity in purpose. It is important to find the Huram Abis in our own lives, those skilled tradespeople in our community, or that friend who can help provide assistance with a project, and recognize that they are doing the Lord’s work.

2 Chronicles 2:17-18

And Solomon numbered all the strangers that were in the land of Israel, after the numbering wherewith David his father had numbered them; and they were found an hundred and fifty thousand and three thousand and six hundred. And he set threescore and ten thousand of them to be bearers of burdens, and fourscore thousand to be hewers in the mountain, and three thousand and six hundred overseers to set the people awork.

2 Chronicles 2:17-18 (NKJV): Then Solomon numbered all the aliens who were in the land of Israel, after the census in which David his father had numbered them; and there were found to be one hundred fifty-three thousand six hundred. And he made seventy thousand of them bearers of burdens, eighty thousand stonecutters in the mountain, and three thousand six hundred overseers to get the people to work.

Solomon’s census of the aliens highlights the inclusion of non-Israelites in the construction project. While the work was demanding, it provided them with opportunities and integration. The specific numbers underscore the scale of the project and Solomon’s meticulous organization. Spiritual Application: The inclusion of foreigners reminds us of God’s universal love and the calling to extend hospitality and opportunity to all. “Building God’s House” must extend to our neighbor.

Subtopic: The Significance of Skilled Craftsmanship

The frequent mention of skilled craftsmen throughout 2 Chronicles 2 underscores the vital role that artistry and expertise play in building a house worthy of God. God equips people with talents that can be used to His glory. Consider the following key reflections:

• Divine Inspiration: God inspires and guides the hands of the skilled. This inspiration is not merely artistic but also spiritual, enabling craftsmen to create beauty that reflects God’s glory.
• Excellence as Worship: The pursuit of excellence in craftsmanship is an act of worship. The dedication to producing the finest work reflects a devotion to God’s honor and a desire to present Him with the best.
• Collaboration and Mentorship: Solomon’s reliance on both local and foreign craftsmen highlights the importance of collaboration and mentorship. The sharing of knowledge and skills enhances the overall quality of the work and fosters a sense of unity.
• Practicality and Beauty: The skilled craftsmen contributed to both the structural integrity and the aesthetic appeal of the Temple.
• God’s Provision: Just as God provided the necessary skills and resources for the construction of the Temple, He continues to equip believers with the gifts and talents needed to build up His Church.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 2 Chronicles 2 and its relevance to our lives today:

Q: Why is it important for Solomon to seek help from other nations in building the temple?

A: Solomon’s seeking help from other nations demonstrates the interconnectedness of people and the importance of utilizing diverse talents and resources for God’s glory. It also shows humility, acknowledging that Israel did not possess all the necessary skills and materials. This is a key lesson in building God’s house today.

Q: What does the chapter tell us about the relationship between faith and work?

A: 2 Chronicles 2 shows that faith and work are inseparable. Solomon’s faith in God inspires his dedication to building the temple, and the work itself is an act of worship. The careful planning, meticulous execution, and reliance on God’s provision all demonstrate the integration of faith into every aspect of the project.

Q: How can we apply the principles of 2 Chronicles 2 to our own lives today?

A: We can apply the principles of 2 Chronicles 2 by diligently using our God-given talents and resources to serve others and glorify God. We should strive for excellence in our work, collaborate with others, and maintain a spirit of humility, recognizing that our efforts are ultimately dependent on God’s grace. We should recognize that we all play a part in “Building God’s House”.

Conclusion

2 Chronicles 2, a prelude to the magnificent Temple’s construction, offers profound spiritual lessons. It highlights the importance of recognizing divine sovereignty, embracing international cooperation, and diligently employing our unique talents. Solomon’s request to Hiram and Hiram’s acknowledgment of God’s blessing underscores a powerful dynamic: acknowledging God’s hand in our achievements fosters unity and facilitates grand endeavors. The chapter underscores that “Building God’s House” is not merely a historical event but a timeless calling to each believer. Like Solomon, we are called to build—not just physical structures, but also spiritual temples in our hearts and communities, relying on God’s grace and dedicating our efforts to His glory. Let us learn from Solomon’s example and strive to build with wisdom, diligence, and unwavering faith, embodying the very essence of service and devotion.

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2 Chronicles, Solomon, Temple, Hiram, Building God’s House, Coptic Orthodox, Theology, Commentary, Old Testament, Jerusalem

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Explore the spiritual depths of 2 Chronicles 2 in this Coptic Orthodox commentary. Discover insights into faith, work, and Building God’s House with wisdom.