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Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Chronicles 22:1–5. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. The place fixed for the building of the temple (Ch1 22:1): Then David said, by inspiration of God, and as a declaration of his mind, This is the house of the Lord God. If a temple must be built for God, it is fit that it be left to him to choose the ground, for all the earth is his; and this is the ground he makes choice of - ground that pertained to a Jebusite, and perhaps there was not a spot of ground besides, in or about Jerusalem, that did so - a happy presage of the setting up of the gospel temple among the Gentiles. See Act 15:16, Act 15:17. The ground was a threshing-floor; for the church of the living God is his floor, his threshing, and the corn of his floor, Isa 21:10. Christ's fan is in his hand, thoroughly to purge his floor. This is to be the house because this is the altar. The temple was built for the sake of the altar. There were altars long before there were temples.
II.Preparation made for that building.
David must not build it, but he would do all he could towards it: He prepared abundantly before his death, Ch1 22:5. This intimates that the consideration of his age and growing infirmities, which showed him his death approaching, quickened him, towards his latter end, to be very diligent in making this preparation. What our hands find to do for God, and our souls, and our generation, let us do it with all our might before our death, because, after death, there is no device nor working. Now we are here told,
1.What induced him to make such preparation. Two things he considered: - (1.) That Solomon was young and tender, and not likely to apply with any great vigour to this business at first; so that, unless he found the wheels set a-going, he would be in danger of losing a great deal of time at first, the rather because, being young, he would be tempted to put it off; whereas, if he found the materials got ready to his hand, the most difficult part of the work would be over, and this would excite and encourage him to go about it in the beginnings of his reign. Note, Those that are aged and experienced should consider those that are young and tender, and provide them what help they can, that they may make the work of God as easy to them as possible. (2.) That the house must be exceedingly magnificent, very stately and sumptuous, strong and beautiful, every thing about it the best in its kind, and for a good reason, since it was intended for the honour of the great God, the Lord of the whole earth, and was to be a type of Christ, in whom all fulness dwells and in whom are hid all treasures. Men were then to be taught by sensible methods. The grandeur of the house would help to affect the worshippers with a holy awe and reverence of God, and would invite strangers to come to see it, and the wonder of the world, who thereby would be brought acquainted with the true God. Therefore it is here designed to be of fame and glory throughout all countries. David foretold this good effect of its being magnificent, Psa 68:29 Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.
2.What preparation he made. In general, he prepared abundantly, as we shall find afterwards; cedar and stones, iron and brass, are here specified, Ch1 22:2-4. Cedar he had from the Tyrians and the Zidonians. The daughter of Tyre shall be there with a gift, Psa 45:12. He also got workmen together, the strangers that were in the land of Israel. Some think that he employed them because they were generally better artists, and more ingenious in manual operations, than the Israelites; or, rather, because he would not employ the free-born Israelites in any thing that looked mean and servile. They were delivered from the bondage of making bricks in Egypt, and must not return to hew stone. These strangers were proselytes to the Jewish religion, but, though not enslaved, they were not of equal dignity with Israelites.
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Summary
1 Chronicles 22:4 meticulously details King David's extensive procurement of building materials for the future Temple, a sacred task he was commissioned to prepare for, though not to complete himself. This verse specifically highlights the acquisition of an immense quantity of cedar wood, a highly prized and durable timber, sourced through the trade relationships David established with the skilled artisans and merchants of the Phoenician city-states, Sidon and Tyre. It powerfully illustrates David's unwavering foresight, his profound dedication to God's dwelling place, and the sheer scale of resources amassed through both human diligence and divinely orchestrated international cooperation.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed within 1 Chronicles 22, a chapter that pivots from David's desire to build a Temple for God to his diligent preparations for its construction by his son, Solomon. Having been divinely prohibited from building the Temple due to his history as a man of war (1 Chronicles 22:8), David channels his fervent devotion into amassing an unprecedented array of materials. The preceding verses (1 Chronicles 22:1-3) set the stage by describing David's securing of iron, bronze, and hewn stones. Verse 4 then specifically focuses on the crucial supply of cedar wood, an essential and prestigious component for the Temple's grand design. This narrative sequence underscores David's unwavering commitment to God's house, demonstrating how he meticulously laid the groundwork for the next generation to fulfill God's architectural blueprint.
Historical & Cultural Context
The "Zidonians and they of Tyre" refer to the inhabitants of the formidable Phoenician city-states of Sidon and Tyre, situated along the Mediterranean coast to the north of Israel. These maritime powers were preeminent in the ancient Near East, renowned for their sophisticated seafaring, extensive trade networks, and unparalleled craftsmanship, particularly in the felling and working of timber and metals. Crucially, they held dominion over the majestic cedar forests of Lebanon, whose timber was exceptionally valued for its strength, aromatic properties, natural resistance to decay, and impressive dimensions, making it the ideal material for monumental and sacred architecture. The inclusion of Sidon and Tyre in this verse underscores the vital economic and political alliances David forged, demonstrating how he leveraged these relationships to acquire resources (like the superior cedar) that were not readily available within Israel's own borders, all for the sacred purpose of the Temple. This alliance would later be famously continued by Solomon and Hiram, King of Tyre, as detailed in 1 Kings 5.
Key Themes
The meticulous and abundant gathering of cedar wood in 1 Chronicles 22:4 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Chronicler's narrative and the broader biblical canon. Firstly, it powerfully exemplifies Diligent Preparation and Foresight, showcasing David's proactive planning and long-term vision for God's worship, even when he himself would not complete the project. Secondly, it highlights International Cooperation and Divine Sovereignty, illustrating how God orchestrates events and utilizes diverse peoples and their unique resources—including those outside Israel's immediate covenant community—to accomplish His divine purposes. The Phoenicians, with their specialized skills and access to vital resources, become instruments in God's grand design for the Temple. Thirdly, the emphasis on "abundance" points to Lavish Generosity and Abundant Provision, reflecting David's profound devotion and the intended grandeur and glory of God's future house, a theme consistently present in descriptions of both the Tabernacle and Temple (e.g., Exodus 35:4-9). Ultimately, it subtly speaks to God's Faithful Provision, indicating that even through human effort and strategic trade, God sovereignly provides for the establishment of His worship and the fulfillment of His promises.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
The Hebrew word רוֹב (H7230, rôb) signifies a great quantity, a multitude, or superabundance. It conveys the idea of not merely sufficiency, but an overflowing, lavish, or exceedingly large amount. In the context of 1 Chronicles 22:4, rôb emphasizes the extraordinary scale of the cedar wood acquisition, underscoring David's commitment to providing materials far beyond simple necessity, reflecting the immense glory intended for the Temple. This word choice powerfully communicates the vastness and generosity of David's preparations.
The Hebrew word אֶרֶז (H730, ʼerez) specifically refers to the Cedar of Lebanon, a majestic evergreen conifer native to the mountains of Lebanon. Renowned in the ancient world for its towering height, straight trunk, aromatic wood, and natural resistance to insects and decay, cedar was the most prized timber for grand construction projects. Its use in the Temple signified permanence, strength, beauty, and a connection to divine majesty, often associated with royal and sacred structures throughout the ancient Near East.
Verse Breakdown
"Also cedar trees in abundance"
This opening phrase immediately draws attention to the specific type of material—cedar wood—and its sheer quantity. The crucial word "abundance" (Hebrew rôb) signifies that David was not merely gathering enough materials, but an exceedingly vast, lavish amount. This reflects David's profound devotion and his desire to spare no expense for the house of God, ensuring a magnificent and enduring structure befitting the Lord's glory.
"for the Zidonians and they of Tyre"
This clause precisely identifies the source of the highly sought-after cedar wood. Sidon and Tyre were prominent Phoenician city-states, renowned for their advanced maritime trade, skilled craftsmanship, and, critically, their control over the vast cedar forests of Lebanon. This detail highlights the international scope of David's procurement efforts and the strategic alliances he forged to acquire necessary resources not readily available within Israel's own borders.
"brought much cedar wood to David"
This final clause confirms the action and the recipient of the materials. The Phoenicians actively transported the cedar to David, implying a significant logistical undertaking and a successful trade or diplomatic arrangement. The repetition of "much cedar wood" (echoing "in abundance") further emphasizes the vast quantity. This act of bringing signifies the practical fulfillment of David's vision to gather all necessary components for the Temple's construction, underscoring the successful execution of his meticulous plans.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its meaning and impact. Hyperbole is subtly present in the repeated emphasis on the quantity, with phrases like "cedar trees in abundance" and "brought much cedar wood." While not an exaggeration to the point of impossibility, it certainly conveys a sense of lavishness and overflowing quantity, underscoring the extraordinary scale of David's preparations for God's house. Merism is utilized by specifically mentioning "the Zidonians and they of Tyre" to represent the broader Phoenician people or region, indicating that David's sourcing extended to the renowned timber suppliers of the entire Phoenician coast. Furthermore, the Symbolism of cedar wood itself is potent; it represents strength, permanence, beauty, and the majesty of God's dwelling, a theme consistent throughout biblical descriptions of sacred architecture and royal structures.
Theological and Thematic Connections
The gathering of cedar in abundance for the Temple is a profound testament to the principle of offering one's absolute best to God, reflecting a heart fully devoted to His glory and purposes. David, though divinely prevented from building the Temple himself, poured his energy, foresight, and vast resources into preparing for it, demonstrating that faithful stewardship, diligent preparation, and generous contribution are vital aspects of serving God's kingdom. This act beautifully prefigures the New Testament call for believers to contribute generously and sacrificially to the building of God's spiritual house, the Church, with our gifts, talents, and material resources. It also powerfully highlights God's sovereign ability to use diverse means and unexpected sources—including international alliances and the skills of those outside the covenant community—to accomplish His redemptive plan, reminding us that His kingdom transcends human boundaries and limitations, drawing all things into His ultimate purpose.
Reflection and Application
David's meticulous and abundant provision of cedar wood for the Temple offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. His actions demonstrate a deep, forward-looking commitment to God's future work, even when he would not personally see its completion. This calls us to consider our own role in preparing for and investing in God's kingdom, recognizing that our diligent efforts today can lay foundational groundwork for future generations and ministries. We are encouraged to give generously, to plan diligently, and to offer our finest resources, talents, and time—not just sufficiently, but abundantly—for the glory of God and the advancement of His purposes. Just as God sovereignly used the skills and resources of the Phoenicians, He continues to use diverse people, nations, and unexpected avenues to advance His purposes globally, reminding us that His work is expansive, inclusive, and beyond our limited perspectives. Our willingness to contribute sacrificially to God's work, whether in physical projects, spiritual ministries, or fostering the next generation of faith, becomes a powerful legacy that points to His enduring presence, power, and faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why couldn't David build the Temple himself?
God explicitly told David that he would not be the one to build the Temple. This divine prohibition was not due to any lack of desire or devotion on David's part, but because he had been a man of war and had shed much blood (1 Chronicles 22:8). Instead, God promised that David's son, Solomon, a man of peace, would be the one to complete the sacred task. David's crucial role was to prepare the way, gather the vast resources, and provide the architectural plans for the monumental undertaking.
What was so special about cedar wood in the ancient world?
Cedar wood, particularly from the majestic Cedars of Lebanon, was highly prized throughout the ancient Near East for several compelling reasons. It was renowned for its exceptional durability, natural resistance to insects and decay, and a pleasant aromatic quality. The trees grew to immense sizes, providing long, straight timbers ideal for grand construction projects like palaces and temples. Its inherent beauty, strength, and longevity made it a potent symbol of majesty, permanence, and divine favor. Its extensive use in the Temple underscored the sacred, enduring, and glorious nature of God's dwelling place.
How does this verse relate to international relations in the Bible?
This verse vividly highlights the practical necessity and profound benefit of international relations, even in the context of sacred endeavors. David's strategic alliance and trade with the powerful Phoenician city-states of Tyre and Sidon were absolutely crucial for obtaining essential resources like cedar wood, which were not available in abundance within Israel's own borders. This demonstrates that God's plans often involve the cooperation of diverse nations and peoples, utilizing their unique skills, resources, and geographical advantages. It also foreshadows the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use even non-Israelite entities to achieve His redemptive purposes, as seen in the later, well-documented alliance between King Solomon and King Hiram of Tyre (1 Kings 5).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While 1 Chronicles 22:4 describes the meticulous preparation for a physical temple, its ultimate and most profound fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ, who is the true, eternal, and perfect dwelling place of God. David's diligent gathering of "cedar trees in abundance" and other precious materials points to the immeasurable richness and divine perfection of the "materials" that constitute God's ultimate Temple—Christ Himself and, by extension, His Church. Jesus powerfully declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking not of the stone edifice but of the temple of His own body (John 2:19-21). He is the very foundation, the chief cornerstone, and the living substance of the new spiritual temple, built not with human hands or perishable wood, but with living stones—believers united in Him (Ephesians 2:20-22). The abundance of cedar foreshadows the infinite abundance of grace, truth, and eternal life found uniquely in Christ, who perfectly embodies the very presence of God among humanity. He is the ultimate High Priest who entered a "greater and more perfect tent" not made with human hands, establishing a new covenant that brings us into direct and intimate fellowship with God (Hebrews 9:11). Thus, David's earthly preparations for a temporary dwelling anticipate the eternal reality of God's dwelling with humanity through Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).