2 Chronicles 1:1

ยถ And Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the LORD his God [was] with him, and magnified him exceedingly.

And Solomon {H8010} the son {H1121} of David {H1732} was strengthened {H2388} in his kingdom {H4438}, and the LORD {H3068} his God {H430} was with him, and magnified {H1431} him exceedingly {H4605}.

Shlomo the son of David grew stronger in his rulership; ADONAI his God was with him, making him greater and greater.

Now Solomon son of David established himself securely over his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him and highly exalted him.

And Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and Jehovah his God was with him, and magnified him exceedingly.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 1:1 KJV serves as a powerful introduction to the reign of King Solomon, immediately highlighting the divine hand in his ascension and establishment. This verse sets the tone for the entire book of 2 Chronicles, which often emphasizes God's direct involvement in the affairs of Israel's kings and the nation.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse marks the beginning of Solomon's undisputed rule after the death of his father, King David. The transition of power was not without challenges, as seen in 1 Kings chapter 1. However, 2 Chronicles 1:1 firmly asserts that Solomon's reign began with a clear demonstration of divine favor and stability. David had prepared extensively for the kingdom and the temple, and Solomon was chosen by God to succeed him, fulfilling part of God's covenant with David concerning his lineage and kingdom. Solomon was not merely a political successor but a divinely appointed king, whose authority was strengthened by the LORD himself.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Strengthening: The phrase "Solomon...was strengthened in his kingdom" indicates that his authority and reign were not merely a result of human politics or military might, but primarily established and secured by God. This divine empowerment provided stability and legitimacy to his rule.
  • God's Presence: "and the LORD his God was with him" is a profound declaration. It signifies God's active presence, guidance, and approval. This divine companionship was a hallmark of successful leadership in Israel, echoing God's promise to leaders like Joshua and His presence with figures like Joseph in Egypt. It implies favor, wisdom, and protection.
  • Divine Magnification: "and magnified him exceedingly" means God made Solomon great, elevating his status, power, and renown beyond ordinary measures. This foreshadows the immense wisdom, wealth, and international influence Solomon would gain, making him one of the most prominent kings in Israel's history. It is a testament to God's ability to lift up and honor those He chooses.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "strengthened" is chazaq (ื—ื–ืง), which can mean to be strong, courageous, or established. Here, it conveys the idea of Solomon's kingdom being firmly established and made secure. The word for "magnified" is gadal (ื’ื“ืœ), meaning to make great, to cause to grow, or to promote. The addition of "exceedingly" (ืœึฐืžึทืขึฐืœึธื” ืžึผึฐืึนื“ - l'ma'lah m'od) emphasizes the extraordinary nature of this divine elevation, indicating a level of greatness that surpassed expectations.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless insights for believers today:

  • God's Sovereignty in Leadership: It reminds us that true authority and success, particularly in positions of influence, ultimately come from God. He establishes, strengthens, and magnifies according to His will.
  • The Importance of God's Presence: Just as God was with Solomon, His presence is vital for our own endeavors. Knowing that "the LORD his God was with him" gives confidence and assurance that we are not alone in our challenges or responsibilities.
  • Divine Empowerment: We can trust that God is capable of empowering us "exceedingly" to fulfill the callings He places on our lives, equipping us with what is needed to succeed in His purposes. This verse encourages reliance on God's strength rather than solely on human ability.

2 Chronicles 1:1 serves as a foundational verse, setting the stage for Solomon's remarkable reign as a period marked by divine favor and extraordinary blessing, all because the LORD his God was with him and magnified him.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 29:25 (6 votes)

    And the LORD magnified Solomon exceedingly in the sight of all Israel, and bestowed upon him [such] royal majesty as had not been on any king before him in Israel.

  • 1 Kings 2:12 (5 votes)

    ยถ Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly.

  • Genesis 39:2 (5 votes)

    And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.

  • Genesis 21:22 (4 votes)

    ยถ And it came to pass at that time, that Abimelech and Phichol the chief captain of his host spake unto Abraham, saying, God [is] with thee in all that thou doest:

  • Philippians 2:9 (3 votes)

    Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

  • Philippians 2:11 (3 votes)

    And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

  • Exodus 3:12 (3 votes)

    And he said, Certainly I will be with thee; and this [shall be] a token unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain.