2 Chronicles 9:15

King Solomon made two hundred large shields of hammered gold; six hundred shekels of hammered gold went into each shield.

Study Bible

King Solomon made two hundred large shields of hammered gold;
King Solomon, known for his wisdom and wealth, undertook the construction of these shields as part of his extensive building projects, which included the Temple and his palace. The shields were likely used for ceremonial purposes rather than practical military defense, symbolizing the prosperity and divine favor upon Solomon's reign. The use of gold signifies opulence and the glory of Solomon's kingdom, reflecting the fulfillment of God's promise to David regarding his lineage (1 Kings 3:13). The shields were stored in the House of the Forest of Lebanon, a part of Solomon's palace complex, which served as an armory and a display of wealth and power (1 Kings 10:17).

six hundred shekels of hammered gold went into each shield.
The use of six hundred shekels of gold per shield indicates the immense wealth of Solomon's kingdom. A shekel was a unit of weight, and six hundred shekels would be approximately 15 pounds or 6.8 kilograms of gold per shield. This lavish expenditure highlights the economic prosperity during Solomon's reign, which was unparalleled in Israel's history. The number six hundred may also have symbolic significance, representing completeness or the fullness of wealth. This opulence is contrasted with later periods of Israel's history, where such wealth was lost due to disobedience to God (1 Kings 14:25-26). The shields can be seen as a type of Christ, who is our shield and protector, embodying divine glory and majesty (Psalm 3:3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem.

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, where Solomon reigned and where the Temple was built. It was the political and spiritual center of the nation.

3. Shields of Gold
These were large ceremonial shields made by Solomon, symbolizing wealth and divine favor. They were not intended for battle but for display in the House of the Forest of Lebanon.

4. House of the Forest of Lebanon
A significant building in Jerusalem constructed by Solomon, used for storing weapons and as a treasury. It was named for its cedar pillars, reminiscent of the forests of Lebanon.

5. Shekels of Gold
A unit of weight used in ancient Israel. The use of gold in such quantities for shields indicates the immense wealth and prosperity during Solomon's reign.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Materialism
Solomon's wealth, symbolized by the golden shields, serves as a reminder of the potential pitfalls of materialism. While wealth itself is not evil, the love of money can lead to spiritual decline.

Symbolism of Gold
Gold in the Bible often symbolizes purity and divine glory. However, in Solomon's case, it also represents the temptation to rely on earthly riches rather than God.

Wisdom and Wealth
Solomon was granted wisdom by God, yet his wealth became a stumbling block. This teaches us that wisdom should guide our use of resources, ensuring they honor God.

Legacy and Influence
Solomon's reign was marked by peace and prosperity, but his focus on wealth left a mixed legacy. Our actions and priorities can have lasting impacts on future generations.

Spiritual Priorities
The shields were for display, not defense. This can remind us to prioritize spiritual defenses over outward appearances, ensuring our faith is genuine and robust.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's use of gold for shields reflect his priorities, and what can we learn about our own priorities from this?

2. In what ways can material wealth become a distraction from spiritual growth, and how can we guard against this in our lives?

3. How does the construction of the House of the Forest of Lebanon reflect Solomon's reign, and what lessons can we draw about the use of resources for God's glory?

4. Considering Deuteronomy 17:17, how might Solomon's accumulation of wealth have affected his relationship with God and his leadership of Israel?

5. How can we apply Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:19-21 to ensure our focus remains on eternal treasures rather than earthly ones?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 10:16-17
This passage parallels 2 Chronicles 9:15, providing additional context about Solomon's wealth and the shields of gold.

Deuteronomy 17:17
This verse warns against kings accumulating excessive wealth, which can be connected to Solomon's actions and the eventual consequences for Israel.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, which can be contrasted with Solomon's accumulation of wealth.