Topical Bible: Temple: Solomon's: Materials For, Furnished by Hiram

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The construction of Solomon's Temple, a pivotal event in the history of Israel, was marked by the collaboration between King Solomon and Hiram, the king of Tyre. This partnership was instrumental in providing the necessary materials for the building of the Temple, which was to become the central place of worship for the Israelites and the dwelling place of the Ark of the Covenant.

Hiram's Role and Contribution

Hiram, the king of Tyre, played a crucial role in the supply of materials for Solomon's Temple. Tyre, known for its skilled craftsmen and abundant resources, was an ideal partner for Solomon. The relationship between Solomon and Hiram was built on mutual respect and a shared vision for the Temple's grandeur. Hiram had been a friend of David, Solomon's father, and continued this alliance with Solomon, as recorded in 1 Kings 5:1: "Now when Hiram king of Tyre heard that Solomon had been anointed king to succeed his father David, he sent envoys to Solomon, because Hiram had always been a friend of David."

Materials Supplied by Hiram

The materials provided by Hiram were essential for the construction of the Temple. The most notable of these materials was the cedar and cypress timber from the forests of Lebanon. These woods were highly prized for their quality and durability, making them ideal for the construction of a structure as significant as the Temple. In 1 Kings 5:6, Solomon requests Hiram's assistance: "So give orders that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay you for your servants according to whatever you say. For you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians."

In addition to timber, Hiram also provided skilled laborers, particularly craftsmen who were adept in working with wood and other materials. This collaboration ensured that the Temple was constructed with the highest standards of craftsmanship.

The Agreement Between Solomon and Hiram

The agreement between Solomon and Hiram was mutually beneficial. In exchange for the materials and labor provided by Hiram, Solomon compensated him with wheat and olive oil, as detailed in 1 Kings 5:11: "And year after year Solomon would provide Hiram with twenty thousand cors of wheat as food for his household, as well as twenty thousand baths of pure olive oil."

This exchange highlights the economic and political alliances that were formed during this period, which were crucial for the successful completion of the Temple. The cooperation between Israel and Tyre underlines the importance of international relations in the ancient Near East and the role they played in the fulfillment of divine purposes.

Significance of Hiram's Contribution

Hiram's contribution to the building of Solomon's Temple was not merely a transaction of goods and services; it was a fulfillment of a divine plan. The materials and expertise provided by Hiram were integral to the realization of a sacred space where the Israelites could worship Yahweh. The Temple stood as a testament to the collaborative efforts of two great kings and their shared commitment to honoring God.

The involvement of Hiram and the resources of Tyre in the construction of the Temple underscore the interconnectedness of the ancient world and the ways in which God used these relationships to accomplish His purposes. The Temple, built with the finest materials and craftsmanship, became a symbol of God's presence among His people and a focal point of Israelite worship for generations.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 5:8-18
And Hiram sent to Solomon, saying, I have considered the things which you sent to me for: and I will do all your desire concerning timber of cedar, and concerning timber of fir.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... The Lord Jesus, therefore, while he seeketh materials wherewith to build his ... those
trees, and to dig those stones, with which Solomon built the Temple. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Solomon's government and his buildings"Phoenician colonisation in Spain: Hiram
I. and ... and Tarshish"The palace at Jerusalem, the temple and its ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... for Francis Smith, at the Elephant and Castle without Temple Barr, 1669 ... though I
am without their learned lines, yet well furnished with the ... 1. Solomon Jarchi. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm