2 Chronicles 2:7

KJV

Send me now therefore a man cunning to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron, and in purple, and crimson, and blue, and that can skill to grave with the cunning men that [are] with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, whom David my father did provide.

KJV (with Strong's)

Send {H7971} me now therefore a man {H376} cunning {H2450} to work {H6213} in gold {H2091}, and in silver {H3701}, and in brass {H5178}, and in iron {H1270}, and in purple {H710}, and crimson {H3758}, and blue {H8504}, and that can skill {H3045} to grave {H6605}{H6603} with the cunning men {H2450} that are with me in Judah {H3063} and in Jerusalem {H3389}, whom David {H1732} my father {H1} did provide {H3559}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Now, therefore, send me a man skilled at working with gold, silver, bronze and iron; dealing with purple, crimson, and blue dyed materials; and capable of doing all kinds of engraving. He will be with the skilled craftsmen I have with me in Y'hudah and Yerushalayim, whom David my father provided.

Berean Standard Bible

Send me, therefore, a craftsman skilled in engraving to work with gold and silver, with bronze and iron, and with purple, crimson, and blue yarn. He will work with my craftsmen in Judah and Jerusalem, whom my father David provided.

American Standard Version

Now therefore send me a man skilful to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron, and in purple, and crimson, and blue, and that knoweth how to grave all manner of gravings, to be with the skilful men that are with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, whom David my father did provide.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
King Solomon, embarking on the monumental and divinely ordained task of constructing the Temple for the Lord in Jerusalem, dispatches a specific and detailed request to Hiram, the King of Tyre. This verse meticulously outlines Solomon's urgent need for a master craftsman, highly skilled in working with precious metals—gold, silver, brass, and iron—as well as in the intricate dyeing of purple, crimson, and blue fabrics, and proficient in engraving. It underscores Solomon's strategic foresight and his recognition that such a grand undertaking, intended to honor God, demanded not only immense resources but also the most exceptional and specialized human talent available, complementing the existing skilled artisans provided by his father, David.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Solomon's initial diplomatic overture to King Hiram, detailed in [2 Chronicles 2:1-10](/2_chronicles/2 "2 Chronicles 2 - Solomon's Request to Hiram"). Having already declared his solemn intention to build a magnificent Temple for the Lord, a project of unparalleled national and spiritual significance as outlined in [2 Chronicles 2:1](/2_chronicles/2-1 "2 Chronicles 2:1 - Solomon's Decision to Build the Temple"), Solomon now articulates the specific human resources required. This undertaking fulfills the long-standing promise made to his father David concerning the construction of God's house, a promise recorded in [2 Samuel 7:13](/2_samuel/7-13 "2 Samuel 7:13 - God's Promise to David about the Temple"). The detailed request for a master craftsman in [2 Chronicles 2:7](/2_chronicles/2-7 "2 Chronicles 2:7 - Solomon's Request for a Master Craftsman") finds a close parallel in [1 Kings 5:6](/1_kings/5-6 "1 Kings 5:6 - Solomon's Request for Cedars and Craftsmen"), highlighting the critical importance of this alliance and the specialized expertise sought for the Temple's elaborate design and construction. The narrative flow emphasizes Solomon's methodical approach to fulfilling God's command, moving from the decision to build to the securing of necessary materials and, crucially, the specialized human talent.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, Phoenicia, particularly the city-state of Tyre, was renowned for its unparalleled craftsmanship in metallurgy, woodworking, and the production of highly prized dyes. While Israel possessed skilled laborers, the intricate and ornate designs specified for the Temple, especially its decorative elements and the handling of precious materials, necessitated an expertise that surpassed what was readily available within Israelite borders. The materials mentioned—gold, silver, brass, and iron—were the most valuable and durable metals of the era, essential for both structural and decorative components. The dyes—purple, crimson, and blue—were exceptionally rare and expensive, derived from specific snails (murex for purple and blue) and insects (kermes for crimson). These colors were universally associated with royalty, wealth, and sacred vestments, as seen in the Tabernacle's construction in [Exodus 26:1](/exodus/26-1 "Exodus 26:1 - The Tabernacle Curtains") and the priestly garments in [Exodus 28:5-6](/exodus/28-5-6 "Exodus 28:5-6 - Materials for Priestly Garments"). Solomon's request therefore reflects a pragmatic understanding of the best available resources and a willingness to engage in international collaboration for a sacred purpose, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in God's service.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of **Divine Purpose, Human Skill, and Excellence**, demonstrating that God's grand plans often involve the specialized talents and collaborative efforts of many individuals, and that the work dedicated to Him should be of the highest possible quality, reflecting His own perfection. The detailed enumeration of skills and materials emphasizes a commitment to **Excellence in Service and Worship**, where nothing less than the finest would suffice for God's dwelling place. Furthermore, the request to Hiram highlights the theme of **International Collaboration and Interdependence**, showing how unique talents from diverse nations can converge for a common, sacred goal, transcending national boundaries for a divine project. Finally, Solomon's acknowledgment of the "cunning men" already with him, "whom David my father did provide," speaks to the **Continuity of God's Plan** across generations and the profound benefit of prior preparation and investment in skilled labor, ensuring a seamless transition and a strong foundation for the monumental task of building the Temple.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cunning (Hebrew, _châkâm'_):** From H2450, this word means "wise, intelligent, skilful or artful." In this context, it denotes an extraordinary level of wisdom, ingenuity, and expertise in craftsmanship. It describes a master artisan, someone profoundly proficient and insightful in their trade, capable of executing complex and artistic tasks with precision and understanding, far beyond mere competence.
* **Purple (Hebrew, _ʼargᵉvân'_), Crimson (Hebrew, _karmîyl'_), and Blue (Hebrew, _tᵉkêleth'_):** These refer to highly prized and costly dyes. **Purple** (H710) was typically associated with royalty, wealth, and divine majesty. **Crimson** (H3758), a deep red, symbolized vitality, sacrifice, and richness. **Blue** (H8504) often represented the heavens, divinity, and purity. Their inclusion signifies the Temple's sacredness, its royal patronage, and its intended splendor, reflecting the colors used in the Tabernacle (e.g., [Exodus 25:4](/exodus/25-4 "Exodus 25:4 - Tabernacle Materials")).
* **To grave (Hebrew, _pâthach'_):** From H6605, this primitive root means "to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve." In this context, it refers to the intricate artistic work of incising designs into materials, particularly metals or stone. This skill was crucial for the decorative elements of the Temple, such as cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, which adorned its walls, doors, and furnishings, adding to its beauty and symbolic richness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Send me now therefore a man cunning to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron":** Solomon's immediate and primary request is for a master metallurgist. The enumeration of these four key metals highlights the extensive work required in various metal applications, from structural components to decorative overlays and sacred vessels within the Temple. This indicates a need for someone not merely skilled in one metal, but a versatile expert capable of handling the properties and intricacies of each with exceptional proficiency.
* **"and in purple, and crimson, and blue":** This clause specifies the need for expertise in textiles and dyeing. The inclusion of these particular colors underscores the requirement for artisans capable of producing or working with the most luxurious and symbolically significant fabrics, essential for the Temple's curtains, veils, and priestly garments, reflecting the divine instructions for the Tabernacle and emphasizing the sacredness and royal nature of God's dwelling.
* **"and that can skill to grave":** This refers to the specialized talent of engraving or carving. It points to the need for an artist who can execute intricate, detailed designs, crucial for the aesthetic and symbolic elements of the Temple's interior and furnishings, transforming raw materials into works of sacred art that would visually communicate theological truths.
* **"with the cunning men that [are] with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, whom David my father did provide":** This final clause reveals Solomon's awareness of and appreciation for the existing pool of skilled Israelite craftsmen. It acknowledges David's foresight in assembling and training artisans for the future Temple project, indicating a desire for collaboration between local and foreign experts rather than a complete reliance on external help. It also highlights the continuity of the divine plan across generations and the blessing of preparation.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey Solomon's meticulous planning and the grandeur of the Temple project. The most prominent is **Enumeration**, seen in the detailed listing of materials (gold, silver, brass, iron, purple, crimson, blue) and skills (working metals, dyeing, engraving). This precise listing emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the required expertise and the high standards set for the Temple's construction, underscoring the vast scope of the undertaking. There is also an element of **Emphasis** through the repeated notion of "cunning" or "skill," which underscores the exceptional proficiency demanded for this sacred task and highlights that ordinary skill would not suffice for God's house. Finally, the mention of "whom David my father did provide" serves as a form of **Continuity** or **Legacy**, connecting Solomon's immediate efforts to his father's long-term preparation and God's unfolding plan, demonstrating the generational nature of God's work.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This passage beautifully illustrates the principle that while God's purposes are sovereign, He often chooses to accomplish them through human effort and skill. Solomon's request for a master craftsman highlights that divine projects, even those as sacred as building God's dwelling place, require human excellence, dedication, and collaboration. It teaches that God values not only spiritual devotion but also the diligent application of diverse talents and professional expertise. The detailed nature of the required skills underscores the biblical emphasis on giving God our very best, reflecting His own perfection and glory in our service. This commitment to excellence in craftsmanship for the Temple foreshadows the New Testament concept of believers as living stones, each uniquely gifted and contributing to the spiritual house of God, where every part is essential for the whole.

* [Exodus 31:1-5](/exodus/31-1-5 "Exodus 31:1-5 - God Appoints Bezalel and Oholiab for Tabernacle Work")
* [1 Corinthians 12:4-11](/1_corinthians/12-4-11 "1 Corinthians 12:4-11 - Diversity of Spiritual Gifts for the Common Good")
* [Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created in Christ Jesus for Good Works")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's meticulous search for the most skilled artisans for God's Temple serves as a profound reminder that our gifts, talents, and professional skills are not merely for personal gain or earthly pursuits, but are to be consecrated and utilized for God's glory. Just as Solomon sought out unparalleled craftsmanship for a physical structure, we are called to employ our unique abilities—whether artistic, technical, intellectual, relational, or administrative—with excellence and diligence in every sphere of our lives, recognizing that all good work, when offered to God, can be an act of worship. This verse also teaches us the vital importance of collaboration within the body of Christ, acknowledging that no single individual possesses all the necessary gifts. It encourages humility in seeking help and wisdom from others, even those from different backgrounds or traditions, to achieve God's greater purposes. Our commitment to excellence, our willingness to collaborate, and our understanding that our "cunning" is a divine provision, transform our daily tasks into sacred service, building up God's kingdom in tangible and spiritual ways, demonstrating His glory in and through us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I identify and cultivate the specific "cunning" (skills and talents) that God has uniquely entrusted to me?**
* **In what ways can I intentionally collaborate with others, valuing their diverse gifts, to advance God's purposes in my community or church?**
* **Am I committed to excellence in my work, whether professional or voluntary, recognizing it as an act of worship to God?**
* **How does the example of David's foresight in preparing skilled workers encourage me to plan and invest for future kingdom work?**

### FAQ

**Why did Solomon need foreign craftsmen if Israel already had "cunning men"?**

Answer: While Israel did possess skilled artisans, as acknowledged by Solomon, the Phoenicians, particularly from Tyre, were renowned throughout the ancient world for their superior and highly specialized expertise in certain crafts. This included advanced metallurgy, intricate engraving, and the production of rare and valuable dyes. The scale and complexity of the Temple project, intended to be a magnificent dwelling place for God, demanded the absolute finest craftsmanship available. Solomon's request was not a dismissal of Israelite skill but a strategic recognition that the unparalleled expertise of Tyrian craftsmen was essential to achieve the divine standard of excellence required for the Temple's construction, complementing the existing local talent. This collaboration underscored a practical wisdom in seeking the best resources for a divinely appointed task.

**What is the significance of the specific materials mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The materials listed—gold, silver, brass, iron, purple, crimson, and blue—were not chosen arbitrarily; they held immense value and symbolic significance in the ancient world. Gold and silver represented wealth, purity, and divine majesty, used for the most sacred and ornate elements of the Temple. Brass (bronze) and iron were crucial for structural integrity and practical implements. The dyes—purple, crimson, and blue—were exceptionally rare and expensive, associated with royalty, nobility, and sacredness. Their use in the Tabernacle (e.g., [Exodus 26:1](/exodus/26-1 "Exodus 26:1 - Tabernacle Curtains")) established their sacred significance, marking the Temple as a place set apart for God's glory and a symbol of His royal presence. These materials collectively speak to the immense value and sacredness of God's dwelling place.

**How does this verse relate to God's sovereignty in building His Temple?**

Answer: This verse beautifully illustrates the paradox of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. While the Temple's construction was God's ultimate plan and initiative, He chose to accomplish it through human means and collaboration. Solomon, as God's chosen king, actively sought out the best human resources, demonstrating that God often works through the diligent efforts, wisdom, and specialized skills of individuals and even nations. It shows that God's sovereign will does not negate human agency but often incorporates it, using human ingenuity and cooperation—even from foreign sources like Hiram and his craftsmen—to bring about His divine purposes. The Temple, though built by human hands, was ultimately a testament to God's faithfulness and design, a partnership between divine command and human obedience and skill.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous search for a master craftsman for Solomon's Temple, a physical dwelling place for God's presence, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Solomon sought an earthly artisan to construct a building, God Himself, in the person of Jesus, is the ultimate "cunning man" (or master builder) who perfectly executes the divine design for a spiritual Temple. Jesus declared, "[Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")," speaking of the temple of His body, which became the true dwelling place of God among humanity ([John 2:21](/john/2-21 "John 2:21 - Jesus Speaks of His Body as the Temple")). Moreover, Christ is the chief cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ the Chief Cornerstone")) upon whom the entire spiritual Temple, the Church, is built. Just as Solomon needed diverse skills, Christ, as the head of the Church, provides a rich array of spiritual gifts and talents to His body, the believers, enabling them to be "built up as a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")). The precious materials and intricate designs of Solomon's Temple foreshadow the immeasurable value and divine beauty of the Church, redeemed by the precious blood of Christ ([1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redeemed by Precious Blood")), and adorned with the righteousness and glory of God. In Christ, the need for an external craftsman is transcended, as He Himself is both the architect and the foundation, perfectly fulfilling God's eternal plan for communion with humanity.

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 Chronicles 2:13

And now I have sent a cunning man, endued with understanding, of Huram my father's,

2 Chronicles 2:14

The son of a woman of the daughters of Dan, and his father [was] a man of Tyre, skilful to work in gold, and in silver, in brass, in iron, in stone, and in timber, in purple, in blue, and in fine linen, and in crimson; also to grave any manner of graving, and to find out every device which shall be put to him, with thy cunning men, and with the cunning men of my lord David thy father.

Exodus 31:3

And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,

Exodus 31:5

And in cutting of stones, to set [them], and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.

1 Chronicles 22:15

Moreover [there are] workmen with thee in abundance, hewers and workers of stone and timber, and all manner of cunning men for every manner of work.

1 Chronicles 22:16

Of the gold, the silver, and the brass, and the iron, [there is] no number. Arise [therefore], and be doing, and the LORD be with thee.

Isaiah 28:29

This also cometh forth from the LORD of hosts, [which] is wonderful in counsel, [and] excellent in working.