2 Chronicles 2:18

Solomon made 70,000 of them porters, 80,000 stonecutters in the mountains, and 3,600 supervisors.

Study Bible

Solomon made 70,000 of them porters
This phrase refers to the labor force that King Solomon organized for the construction of the temple. The porters, or burden-bearers, were responsible for transporting materials. This large workforce highlights the immense scale of the temple project. The use of forced labor, often from non-Israelite populations, was common in ancient Near Eastern monarchies. This practice is reminiscent of the Israelites' own experience in Egypt, where they were subjected to hard labor. The number 70,000 signifies the vast resources and manpower Solomon had at his disposal, reflecting his wealth and the importance of the temple project.

80,000 stonecutters in the mountains
The stonecutters were skilled laborers tasked with quarrying and shaping stones for the temple's construction. The mention of "in the mountains" suggests that the stones were sourced from specific quarries, possibly in the region of Lebanon, known for its high-quality building materials. This aligns with the biblical account of Solomon's alliance with Hiram, king of Tyre, who provided cedar and skilled workers. The use of stone in temple construction symbolizes permanence and strength, qualities associated with God's eternal presence. The labor-intensive process of stonecutting underscores the dedication and effort required to build a house for the Lord.

and 3,600 supervisors
The supervisors were likely responsible for overseeing the laborers and ensuring the quality and progress of the work. This hierarchical structure reflects the organized and efficient approach Solomon took in managing the temple project. The number 3,600 indicates a significant administrative effort, necessary for coordinating such a large workforce. This mirrors the wisdom and administrative skills attributed to Solomon, as seen in his ability to govern Israel effectively. The role of supervisors also points to the importance of leadership and accountability in fulfilling God's purposes, a theme echoed throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel, known for his wisdom and for building the temple in Jerusalem. He organized the labor force for the temple's construction.

2. Porters
These were laborers assigned to carry materials. The Hebrew word used here can imply those who bear burdens, indicating their role in transporting heavy materials.

3. Stonecutters
Skilled workers tasked with cutting stones from the mountains. This was a crucial role, as the temple required large quantities of precisely cut stones.

4. Supervisors
These were the overseers who managed the labor force. Their role was to ensure that the work was done efficiently and according to plan.

5. Mountains
The location where the stonecutters worked. The mountains provided the raw materials necessary for the temple's construction.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Organization in God's Work
Solomon's detailed organization of laborers highlights the importance of planning and structure in accomplishing God's purposes. In our lives, we should seek to organize our efforts to serve God effectively.

Diversity of Gifts and Roles
Just as Solomon's workforce had diverse roles, the body of Christ is made up of individuals with different gifts and callings. Each role is vital to the overall mission of the church.

Leadership and Oversight
The presence of supervisors underscores the need for leadership and accountability in any endeavor. In our spiritual lives, we should seek wise counsel and be accountable to others.

Commitment to Excellence
The skilled work of the stonecutters reflects a commitment to excellence in serving God. We should strive for excellence in all we do, as a reflection of our dedication to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's organization of laborers reflect the importance of planning in our spiritual and daily lives?

2. In what ways can we identify and utilize our unique gifts and roles within the body of Christ, similar to the diverse roles in Solomon's workforce?

3. What lessons can we learn from the role of supervisors in this passage about leadership and accountability in our own communities?

4. How can we apply the principle of commitment to excellence in our personal walk with God and in our service to others?

5. How does the concept of diverse roles in Solomon's workforce connect with Paul's teaching on spiritual gifts in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 5:15-16
This passage provides a parallel account of Solomon's labor force, offering additional details about the organization and scale of the workforce.

Exodus 31:1-11
This passage describes the skilled artisans Bezalel and Oholiab, who were filled with the Spirit of God to construct the Tabernacle, drawing a parallel to the skilled laborers in Solomon's time.

Ephesians 4:11-12
This New Testament passage speaks about the different roles within the body of Christ, similar to the varied roles in Solomon's workforce, emphasizing the importance of each role in building up the church.