1 Chronicles 18:8

KJV

Likewise from Tibhath, and from Chun, cities of Hadarezer, brought David very much brass, wherewith Solomon made the brasen sea, and the pillars, and the vessels of brass.

KJV (with Strong's)

Likewise from Tibhath {H2880}, and from Chun {H3560}, cities {H5892} of Hadarezer {H1928}, brought {H3947} David {H1732} very {H3966} much {H7227} brass {H5178}, wherewith Solomon {H8010} made {H6213} the brasen {H5178} sea {H3220}, and the pillars {H5982}, and the vessels {H3627} of brass {H5178}.

Complete Jewish Bible

From Tivchat and Kun, cities of Hadar'ezer, King David took a great quantity of bronze, which Shlomo used to make the bronze "Sea,"the columns and various bronze articles.

Berean Standard Bible

And from Tibhath and Cun, cities of Hadadezer, David took a large amount of bronze, with which Solomon made the bronze Sea, the pillars, and various bronze articles.

American Standard Version

And from Tibhath and from Cun, cities of Hadarezer, David took very much brass, wherewith Solomon made the brazen sea, and the pillars, and the vessels of brass.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse from 1 Chronicles 18:8 details King David's acquisition of a vast quantity of brass from the cities of Tibhath and Chun, which belonged to Hadarezer, king of Zobah. This significant spoil of war was not merely general plunder but was specifically designated by the Chronicler as the material from which Solomon would later construct key components of the Temple, including the massive "brazen sea," the imposing pillars, and various other brass vessels. It highlights David's role in preparing resources for a divine project he himself was not permitted to complete, underscoring God's meticulous provision and the continuity of His redemptive plan across generations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 18 is part of a larger section (chapters 18-20) that meticulously records David's military victories and the expansion of his kingdom, emphasizing his role as the divinely appointed king who secures Israel's borders and accumulates resources. Immediately preceding this verse, [1 Chronicles 18:3-7](/1_chronicles/18-3 "1 Chronicles 18:3-7 - David's Victory Over Hadarezer") describes David's decisive defeat of Hadarezer, King of Zobah, a powerful Aramean kingdom. The acquisition of brass from Tibhath and Chun is presented as a direct consequence of this victory, highlighting the spoils of war as divine provision. The Chronicler's deliberate inclusion of the brass's future use for the Temple in this military narrative serves to connect David's conquests directly to the sacred purpose of building God's dwelling, establishing a clear theological link between David's reign and Solomon's monumental task. This narrative structure underscores the Chronicler's overarching theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant with David and the preparation for the Temple.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, control over metal resources was crucial for military strength, economic prosperity, and architectural endeavors. Brass (more accurately, bronze, an alloy of copper and tin) was a vital material, used extensively for tools, weapons, and, significantly, for cultic objects in temples and sacred spaces. The cities of Tibhath and Chun, though not extensively documented outside this passage, were evidently significant centers for metal production or trade within Hadarezer's dominion. David's defeat of Hadarezer and his allies (as detailed in [2 Samuel 8:3-8](/2_samuel/8-3 "2 Samuel 8:3-8 - David's Defeat of Hadarezer")) was a major geopolitical event, solidifying Israel's regional dominance and granting David access to immense wealth and strategic resources. The sheer quantity of brass mentioned ("very much brass") suggests the considerable industrial capacity of these regions and the scale of David's victory, which God providentially used to supply the future Temple.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of Chronicles. Firstly, it exemplifies **Divine Provision**, showcasing how God orchestrates even military conquests to supply the necessary materials for His sacred purposes. David's victories are not merely human achievements but instruments of God's overarching plan to establish His dwelling place. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Preparation for the Temple**. Although David was forbidden from building the Temple due to his involvement in warfare ([1 Chronicles 22:8](/1_chronicles/22-8 "1 Chronicles 22:8 - David Forbidden to Build the Temple")), he diligently dedicated himself to gathering the vast quantities of materials needed for its construction, demonstrating his obedience and foresight. This act of preparation underscores the continuity of God's work across generations, where one generation lays the groundwork for the next. Finally, the **Significance of Sacred Materials** is evident; brass, a durable and valuable metal, was essential for the functionality and symbolism of the Temple, echoing its extensive use in the Tabernacle ([Exodus 38:1-8](/exodus/38-1 "Exodus 38:1-8 - Bronze for the Tabernacle")). The Chronicler emphasizes that these materials were not for David's personal enrichment but for God's glory and the establishment of His worship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Brass (Hebrew, _nechosheth'_):** This term (נְחֹשֶׁת) in biblical Hebrew broadly refers to copper or, more commonly, bronze (an alloy of copper and tin), which was the primary metal used for tools, weapons, and cultic objects in the ancient world before the widespread use of iron. Its significance lies in its durability, malleability, and reddish-brown luster. In the context of the Temple, bronze was crucial for large, heavy items like the altar of burnt offering, the laver, and the massive "sea" and pillars, indicating its structural and symbolic importance. Its abundance here signifies immense wealth and the scale of the future Temple project.
* **Tibhath, Chun:** These are identified as "cities of Hadarezer." While their exact locations are debated by scholars, they are understood to be within the territory of Zobah, a powerful Aramean kingdom north of Israel. Their specific mention implies they were known for their rich deposits of copper or for their metalworking industries. Their capture and the subsequent acquisition of their resources underscore the strategic and economic impact of David's victory over Hadarezer.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Likewise from Tibhath, and from Chun, cities of Hadarezer":** This clause establishes the specific geographic source of the valuable metal. "Likewise" connects this acquisition to previous spoils of war taken from Hadarezer (e.g., gold shields in [1 Chronicles 18:7](/1_chronicles/18-7 "1 Chronicles 18:7 - David Takes Gold Shields")). The identification of Tibhath and Chun as "cities of Hadarezer" emphasizes that these resources were obtained directly from the defeated enemy, highlighting the spoils of war as legitimate and divinely sanctioned provision for Israel.
* **"brought David very much brass":** This phrase emphasizes the immense quantity of metal acquired and credits David as the active agent in its procurement. The phrase "very much" (מְאֹד נְחֹשֶׁת, _me'od nechosheth_) underscores the extraordinary abundance, signaling the scale of the resources dedicated to the Temple project. It highlights David's diligence and success in consolidating the wealth necessary for God's future dwelling.
* **"wherewith Solomon made the brasen sea, and the pillars, and the vessels of brass":** This crucial clause provides the theological rationale for recording David's acquisition. It explicitly links David's actions to Solomon's future construction of the Temple, specifically mentioning the "brazen sea" (a massive basin for priestly ablutions, described in [1 Kings 7:23-26](/1_kings/7-23 "1 Kings 7:23-26 - Description of the Molten Sea")), the two towering pillars (Jachin and Boaz, detailed in [1 Kings 7:15-22](/1_kings/7-15 "1 Kings 7:15-22 - The Bronze Pillars")), and other "vessels of brass" used in Temple service. This connection underscores the Chronicler's theme of continuity in God's plan and David's foundational role in preparing for the Temple, even though he would not build it.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in this verse to convey its theological message. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as David's actions in gathering materials explicitly anticipate Solomon's future construction of the Temple. This sets up a narrative link between the two kings, showing a continuity of divine purpose. The mention of "very much brass" uses **Hyperbole** to emphasize the vast quantity of the acquired metal, underscoring the immense resources God provided for His dwelling place and the scale of the future Temple. Furthermore, the Chronicler's selective focus on the brass's ultimate use for the Temple, rather than general plunder, demonstrates **Theological Interpretation**, shaping the historical account to highlight God's providential hand and the sacred destiny of the spoils of war. This interpretive lens transforms a military victory into an act of divine provision for worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse beautifully illustrates the principle of divine provision interwoven with human stewardship and foresight. David, a man of war, was not permitted to build the Temple, yet he was divinely tasked with gathering the immense resources required. This highlights God's sovereign ability to use diverse means—even the spoils of war—to accomplish His sacred purposes. The continuity from David's preparation to Solomon's construction underscores that God's plans transcend individual lifetimes and are often realized through the collaborative efforts of successive generations. The brass, a material of strength and durability, symbolizes the enduring nature of God's covenant and the solid foundation laid for His worship. It teaches that every contribution, whether directly building or merely preparing, is vital to God's kingdom work.

* [Exodus 38:8](/exodus/38-8 "Exodus 38:8 - Bronze Laver from Mirrors") - Shows the use of bronze in the Tabernacle, setting a precedent for its sacred use.
* [1 Kings 7:23-47](/1_kings/7-23 "1 Kings 7:23-47 - Solomon's Bronze Work for the Temple") - Provides a detailed account of Solomon's extensive use of bronze for the Temple's furnishings, including the "molten sea" and pillars, fulfilling the prophecy in 1 Chronicles 18:8.
* [Haggai 2:8](/haggai/2-8 "Haggai 2:8 - God Owns All Wealth") - "The silver is mine and the gold is mine, declares the Lord Almighty." This verse reinforces the theological truth that all resources ultimately belong to God, and He provides them according to His will for His purposes.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 18:8 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers regarding stewardship, legacy, and God's providential care. Just as David diligently gathered resources for a future project he would not complete, we are called to be faithful stewards of the gifts, talents, and material resources God entrusts to us, even if the full impact of our efforts will only be realized by others or in future generations. Our work, whether visible or behind the scenes, contributes to God's ongoing kingdom mission. This verse reminds us that God can use unexpected circumstances, even those involving conflict or difficulty, to advance His divine purposes and provide for His people. It encourages us to have a long-term perspective, investing in ministries, relationships, and spiritual growth that may bear fruit far beyond our immediate sight, trusting that God will bring His plans to fruition through faithful obedience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might God be calling you to "gather resources" or lay groundwork for a future work that you may not see to completion?**
* **How does the idea of God using "spoils of war" (or difficult circumstances) for His sacred purposes challenge or affirm your understanding of His sovereignty?**
* **What "brass" (resources, talents, time) has God entrusted to you that could be dedicated to His kingdom, even if its ultimate use is for a future generation or ministry?**
* **How can we cultivate a spirit of selfless contribution, knowing that our efforts contribute to a larger, divine tapestry?**

### FAQ

**Why was brass (bronze) such an important material for the Temple?**

Answer: Bronze was crucial for the Temple due to its durability, strength, and availability in the ancient world. Unlike gold or silver, which were used for more decorative or portable items, bronze was ideal for large, heavy, and functional components that needed to withstand significant use and exposure. For instance, the "brazen sea" was a massive basin holding thousands of gallons of water for priestly ablutions, and the pillars were monumental structures. Bronze's resistance to corrosion also made it suitable for outdoor elements like the altar of burnt offering in the Temple courtyard. Theologically, its use in the Tabernacle ([Exodus 27:1-8](/exodus/27-1 "Exodus 27:1-8 - The Bronze Altar")) established a precedent for its sacred significance, often associated with judgment (as seen with the bronze serpent in [Numbers 21:9](/numbers/21-9 "Numbers 21:9 - The Bronze Serpent")), and the enduring nature of God's covenant.

**Why did David gather materials for the Temple but not build it himself?**

Answer: David passionately desired to build a permanent dwelling place for God, as recorded in [2 Samuel 7:1-3](/2_samuel/7-1 "2 Samuel 7:1-3 - David's Desire to Build the Temple"). However, God, through the prophet Nathan, revealed that David, a man of war who had shed much blood, would not be the one to build the Temple. Instead, his son, Solomon, a man of peace, would undertake this task ([1 Chronicles 22:8](/1_chronicles/22-8 "1 Chronicles 22:8 - David Forbidden to Build the Temple")). Despite this, David was permitted, and indeed commanded, to prepare extensively for the Temple's construction, gathering vast quantities of materials like this brass, along with gold, silver, wood, and stone, and organizing the priestly and Levitical orders ([1 Chronicles 22:14-16](/1_chronicles/22-14 "1 Chronicles 22:14-16 - David's Preparations for the Temple")). This arrangement highlights God's sovereign choice, the distinction between warfare and worship, and the continuity of God's plan across generations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The physical Temple, meticulously prepared for by David and built by Solomon with vast quantities of materials like this brass, ultimately points to a greater reality fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The Temple was the dwelling place of God among His people, a place of sacrifice, worship, and divine presence. Yet, as the New Testament reveals, the true and ultimate Temple is not made with human hands, but is found in the person of Jesus Christ. He declared, "[Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")," referring to His own body ([John 2:21](/john/2-21 "John 2:21 - Jesus Speaks of His Body as the Temple")). Just as David prepared the materials for the earthly Temple, Christ, through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, has laid the foundation and built the spiritual Temple—His Church—composed of believers, "[built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ as the Cornerstone")" ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ as the Cornerstone")). The brass, symbolizing strength and perhaps judgment (as seen in the bronze altar for sacrifice), finds its ultimate meaning in Christ's enduring sacrifice that perfectly atones for sin and His unshakeable kingdom. He is the one who truly gathers all things to Himself, building a dwelling place for God's Spirit that will stand for eternity ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones for a Spiritual House")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Samuel 8:8

And from Betah, and from Berothai, cities of Hadadezer, king David took exceeding much brass.

2 Chronicles 4:12

[To wit], the two pillars, and the pommels, and the chapiters [which were] on the top of the two pillars, and the two wreaths to cover the two pommels of the chapiters which [were] on the top of the pillars;

2 Chronicles 4:18

Thus Solomon made all these vessels in great abundance: for the weight of the brass could not be found out.

2 Chronicles 4:2

Also he made a molten sea of ten cubits from brim to brim, round in compass, and five cubits the height thereof; and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about.

2 Chronicles 4:6

He made also ten lavers, and put five on the right hand, and five on the left, to wash in them: such things as they offered for the burnt offering they washed in them; but the sea [was] for the priests to wash in.

1 Kings 7:15

For he cast two pillars of brass, of eighteen cubits high apiece: and a line of twelve cubits did compass either of them about.

1 Kings 7:47

And Solomon left all the vessels [unweighed], because they were exceeding many: neither was the weight of the brass found out.