1 And Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the LORD his God [was] with him, and magnified him exceedingly.
2 Then Solomon spake unto all Israel, to the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and to the judges, and to every governor in all Israel, the chief of the fathers.
3 So Solomon, and all the congregation with him, went to the high place that [was] at Gibeon; for there was the tabernacle of the congregation of God, which Moses the servant of the LORD had made in the wilderness.
4 But the ark of God had David brought up from Kirjathjearim to [the place which] David had prepared for it: for he had pitched a tent for it at Jerusalem.
5 Moreover the brasen altar, that Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, had made, he put before the tabernacle of the LORD: and Solomon and the congregation sought unto it.
6 And Solomon went up thither to the brasen altar before the LORD, which [was] at the tabernacle of the congregation, and offered a thousand burnt offerings upon it.
7 In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee.
8 And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his stead.
9 Now, O LORD God, let thy promise unto David my father be established: for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude.
10 Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, [that is so] great?
11 And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king:
12 Wisdom and knowledge [is] granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that [have been] before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.
13 Then Solomon came [from his journey] to the high place that [was] at Gibeon to Jerusalem, from before the tabernacle of the congregation, and reigned over Israel.
14 And Solomon gathered chariots and horsemen: and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen, which he placed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.
15 And the king made silver and gold at Jerusalem [as plenteous] as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that [are] in the vale for abundance.
16 And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king’s merchants received the linen yarn at a price.
17 And they fetched up, and brought forth out of Egypt a chariot for six hundred [shekels] of silver, and an horse for an hundred and fifty: and so brought they out [horses] for all the kings of the Hittites, and for the kings of Syria, by their means.
Overview of 2 Chronicles Chapter 1
2 Chronicles Chapter 1 focuses on the early reign of Solomon, the son of David, highlighting his request for wisdom from God, his subsequent offerings, and the establishment of his authority as king. This chapter sets the stage for Solomon’s reign and emphasizes the importance of divine wisdom in leadership.
Key Themes
- Divine Wisdom: Solomon’s request for wisdom demonstrates the value of seeking guidance from God in leadership.
- Worship and Sacrifice: The chapter emphasizes the significance of worship through offerings and sacrifices to God.
- God’s Favor: Solomon’s actions lead to God’s favor, showcasing the relationship between obedience and divine blessing.
- Establishment of Authority: Solomon’s ascension to the throne and his actions reinforce his legitimacy as king.
Structure of the Chapter
- Solomon’s Ascension (Verses 1-3):
This section describes Solomon becoming king after David’s death and his consolidation of power in Israel. The chapter opens with Solomon establishing himself in Jerusalem, where he reigns over Israel.
- Worship at Gibeon (Verses 3-6):
Solomon goes to Gibeon, where the tabernacle is located, to offer sacrifices. He offers a thousand burnt offerings, demonstrating his commitment to God and the importance of worship in his reign.
- God’s Response (Verses 7-12):
God appears to Solomon in a dream and asks what he desires. Solomon requests wisdom to govern the people effectively. God grants him wisdom, along with riches and honor, establishing Solomon’s reputation as a wise king.
- Solomon’s Wealth and Wisdom (Verses 13-17):
The chapter concludes with a description of Solomon’s wealth and the extent of his influence, including the trade and military strength of Israel during his reign.
Analysis of Key Verses
Verses 1-3: Solomon’s Reign Begins
These verses establish Solomon’s authority and the transition of power from David to Solomon. The mention of Israel signifies the unity of the tribes under Solomon’s rule, indicating a strong foundation for his reign.
Verses 4-6: The Importance of Worship
Solomon’s journey to Gibeon highlights the importance of worship in the life of a leader. His significant offering of a thousand burnt offerings reflects his dedication to God and sets a precedent for his reign, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine favor through worship.
Verses 7-12: The Request for Wisdom
God’s question to Solomon, “What shall I give you?” is pivotal, as it reveals the nature of divine generosity. Solomon’s choice to ask for wisdom instead of wealth or long life demonstrates his understanding of the responsibilities of leadership. God’s response underscores the principle that true wisdom and understanding are more valuable than material wealth.
Verses 13-17: Solomon’s Prosperity
The concluding verses illustrate the immediate effects of Solomon’s wisdom, as he gains wealth and respect. The descriptions of his horses and chariots symbolize military strength and economic prosperity, establishing Solomon as a formidable ruler in the region.
Conclusion
2 Chronicles Chapter 1 serves as a foundational narrative for Solomon’s reign, emphasizing the significance of wisdom, worship, and divine favor. It sets a tone for the subsequent chapters, which will explore the implications of Solomon’s choices and the legacy of his reign in Israel.
