2 Chronicles 1:15

The king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills.

Study Bible

The king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stones
This phrase highlights the immense wealth and prosperity during King Solomon's reign. Solomon's wisdom and God's blessing led to unprecedented economic growth. The abundance of silver and gold signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to bless Israel if they followed His commandments. This prosperity is a direct result of Solomon's request for wisdom over wealth, as seen in 1 Kings 3:10-13. The comparison to stones emphasizes the extraordinary nature of this wealth, as stones were plentiful and of little value. This abundance also foreshadows the wealth of the New Jerusalem described in Revelation 21:18-21, where precious materials are used as common building materials, symbolizing divine blessing and glory.

and cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills
Cedar wood, particularly from Lebanon, was highly prized in the ancient Near East for its quality and durability. Solomon's use of cedar in the construction of the temple and his palace (1 Kings 5:6) underscores its value. The abundance of cedar during Solomon's reign indicates successful trade relations, particularly with Hiram, king of Tyre, who supplied cedar in exchange for wheat and oil (1 Kings 5:10-11). Sycamore trees, common in the lowlands of Israel, were used for less prestigious purposes, such as building and furniture. The comparison suggests that what was once rare and valuable (cedar) became as plentiful as the more common sycamore, illustrating the extraordinary prosperity and resources available during Solomon's rule. This abundance can be seen as a type of the spiritual richness found in Christ, who provides abundantly for His people (John 10:10).

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem. His reign is marked by prosperity and peace.

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, Jerusalem is the political and spiritual center of the nation. Under Solomon's rule, it becomes a symbol of wealth and divine blessing.

3. Silver and Gold
These precious metals symbolize wealth and prosperity. Solomon's ability to make them as common as stones indicates the extraordinary economic success during his reign.

4. Cedar
A valuable wood used in construction, especially for the Temple and royal palaces. Its abundance signifies the extensive trade networks and resources available to Solomon.

5. Sycamore in the Foothills
Sycamore trees were common and less valuable, highlighting the contrast with the abundance of cedar, a more precious resource.

Teaching Points

Divine Blessing and Responsibility
Solomon's wealth is a sign of God's blessing, but it also comes with the responsibility to use resources wisely and justly.

The Danger of Materialism
While wealth can be a blessing, it can also lead to complacency and a focus on material rather than spiritual riches.

Stewardship of Resources
Believers are called to be good stewards of the resources God provides, using them to further His kingdom and help others.

Contentment in God's Provision
True contentment comes from trusting in God's provision, not in the accumulation of wealth.

The Temporal Nature of Earthly Wealth
Earthly wealth is temporary and should not be the ultimate goal; instead, focus on eternal treasures.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's wealth reflect God's blessing, and what responsibilities come with such abundance?

2. In what ways can the accumulation of wealth become a spiritual danger, as seen in Solomon's life and other biblical examples?

3. How can we apply the principle of stewardship in our own lives, particularly in managing the resources God has given us?

4. What steps can we take to ensure our focus remains on eternal treasures rather than earthly wealth?

5. How does the abundance of resources in Solomon's time compare to the spiritual riches available to believers today through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 10:27
This verse parallels 2 Chronicles 1:15, emphasizing Solomon's wealth and the abundance of silver and gold in Jerusalem.

Deuteronomy 17:17
This passage warns against kings accumulating excessive wealth, which provides a cautionary backdrop to Solomon's prosperity.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, offering a New Testament perspective on wealth and material abundance.