2 Chronicles 2:8

KJV

Send me also cedar trees, fir trees, and algum trees, out of Lebanon: for I know that thy servants can skill to cut timber in Lebanon; and, behold, my servants [shall be] with thy servants,

KJV (with Strong's)

Send {H7971} me also cedar {H730} trees {H6086}, fir trees {H1265}, and algum trees {H418}, out of Lebanon {H3844}: for I know {H3045} that thy servants {H5650} can skill {H3045} to cut {H3772} timber {H6086} in Lebanon {H3844}; and, behold, my servants {H5650} shall be with thy servants {H5650},

Complete Jewish Bible

Also send me cedar, cypress and sandalwood logs from the L'vanon; for I know that your servants are skilled in cutting timber in the L'vanon. I will have my servants work together with your servants

Berean Standard Bible

Send me also cedar, cypress, and algum logs from Lebanon, for I know that your servants have skill to cut timber there. And indeed, my servants will work with yours

American Standard Version

Send me also cedar-trees, fir-trees, and algum-trees, out of Lebanon; for I know that thy servants know how to cut timber in Lebanon. And, behold, my servants shall be with thy servants,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 2:8 records King Solomon's diplomatic request to King Hiram of Tyre for specific, high-quality timber—cedar, fir, and algum trees—from Lebanon. This pivotal verse underscores Solomon's strategic wisdom in acknowledging and leveraging the superior skill of Hiram's Phoenician servants in felling and processing timber, a crucial step in gathering the vast resources required for the construction of the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem, a project of unparalleled national and spiritual significance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated early in the account of Solomon's reign in 2 Chronicles, specifically within his preparations for building the Temple. Following King David's fervent desire to build a house for the Lord, a task he was providentially prevented from completing, Solomon inherits this sacred mandate. The preceding verses detail Solomon's initial communication with Hiram, establishing the purpose of the Temple and the need for skilled labor and materials. This particular verse, 2 Chronicles 2:8, forms a specific part of Solomon's detailed request, demonstrating his meticulous planning and reliance on external expertise for a project that would define his reign and serve as the central place of worship for Israel. The narrative in 2 Chronicles often emphasizes the spiritual significance and divine blessing associated with the Temple's construction, portraying it as a fulfillment of God's promise to David and a testament to Israel's devotion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The relationship between Israel and Tyre (Phoenicia) was one of strategic alliance, particularly during the reigns of David and Solomon. Tyre, a prominent maritime city-state, was renowned throughout the ancient Near East for its skilled craftsmen, advanced shipbuilding, and expertise in forestry, especially in harvesting the prized cedar and fir trees from the vast forests of Lebanon. These trees were invaluable for large-scale construction due to their durability, aromatic qualities, and resistance to decay. King Hiram had previously supplied cedar and craftsmen for [David's palace](/2_samuel/5-11 "2 Samuel 5:11 - Hiram's help for David's palace"), establishing a precedent for cooperation. Solomon's acknowledgment that Hiram's "servants can skill to cut timber in Lebanon" (2 Chronicles 2:8) was not mere flattery but a recognition of a well-known, specialized proficiency. The mention of "algum trees" (also known as almug in [1 Kings 10:11](/1_kings/10-11 "1 Kings 10:11 - Almug wood from Ophir")) is particularly notable, as this rare and valuable wood was likely imported from distant lands, possibly Ophir, via Tyre's extensive trade networks, indicating the extraordinary quality and exotic nature of materials sought for God's dwelling.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Provision and Human Cooperation**, demonstrating how God orchestrates circumstances and relationships (like that between Solomon and Hiram) to facilitate His purposes, even when it requires international collaboration. Secondly, it underscores the **Value of Specialized Skill and Wisdom in Leadership**. Solomon, despite his own wisdom, humbly recognized and sought out the unique expertise of others, illustrating that effective leadership involves discerning and utilizing diverse gifts for a common goal. This mirrors the principle seen in [1 Kings 5:6](/1_kings/5-6 "1 Kings 5:6 - Solomon's request for Sidonian skill"), where Solomon specifically requests Sidonian skill. Thirdly, the meticulous gathering of specific, high-quality materials for the Temple emphasizes the theme of **Diligent Preparation and Excellence in Worship**. The Temple was to be a place of unparalleled beauty and grandeur, reflecting the majesty of the God it honored, thus requiring the finest resources and craftsmanship. Finally, it subtly points to the theme of **God's Universal Sovereignty**, as even non-Israelite nations and their resources are brought into service for the building of His sanctuary.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Skill (יָדַע, _yada'_):** This Hebrew verb means "to know," "to perceive," "to understand," or "to be acquainted with." In this context, it denotes a deep, practical knowledge or expertise. Solomon's statement "I know that thy servants can skill to cut timber" implies not just a general awareness but an acknowledgment of their superior, specialized proficiency and experience in forestry and logging, particularly in the challenging terrain and with the massive trees of Lebanon. It suggests a mastery of the craft.
* **Cut timber (כָּרַת, _karat_):** This verb primarily means "to cut," "to cut off," "to fell," or "to make a covenant." While its primary meaning here is the felling and processing of trees, the broader semantic range of _karat_ can subtly evoke the precision and decisive action involved. In the context of the Temple, it signifies the deliberate and exact preparation of materials for a sacred purpose, underscoring the careful craftsmanship required.
* **Algum trees (אַלְגּוּמִּים, _'algummim'_):** This term refers to a precious, exotic wood, likely imported from distant lands (possibly Ophir, as suggested by its parallel in [1 Kings 10:11](/1_kings/10-11 "1 Kings 10:11 - Almug wood from Ophir")). Unlike the more common cedar and fir, algum wood was highly valued for its beauty, fragrance, and suitability for intricate work. It was used for musical instruments (harps and lyres) and for elaborate ornamentation within the Temple, signifying the luxurious and sacred nature of the materials dedicated to God's dwelling. Its inclusion highlights the extraordinary resources committed to the Temple's construction.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Send me also cedar trees, fir trees, and algum trees, out of Lebanon:"** This clause details Solomon's specific request for three distinct types of timber. Cedar was prized for its durability, aroma, and majestic size, ideal for structural beams and paneling. Fir (or cypress) was also strong and used for flooring and paneling. Algum, as noted, was a rare, valuable wood for decorative and musical purposes. The explicit mention "out of Lebanon" highlights the source of the finest timber in the ancient world, renowned for its vast, ancient forests.
* **"for I know that thy servants can skill to cut timber in Lebanon;"** This is Solomon's justification and diplomatic acknowledgment. He expresses his full awareness and confidence in the unparalleled expertise of Hiram's Phoenician workers. This statement is a strategic compliment, affirming their renowned proficiency in felling, transporting, and preparing the massive trees of Lebanon, which was a highly specialized and dangerous task. It underscores Solomon's humility and wisdom in seeking the best available resources and labor for God's house.
* **"and, behold, my servants [shall be] with thy servants,"** This final clause demonstrates Solomon's commitment to a cooperative effort. He is not merely demanding resources but offering reciprocal labor. His servants would work alongside Hiram's, learning from their expertise, assisting with the arduous tasks, and fostering a spirit of partnership. This arrangement would likely expedite the process, strengthen the alliance between the two kingdoms, and ensure the efficient extraction and preparation of the vast quantities of timber required for the Temple.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively. **Diplomacy** and **Politeness** are evident in Solomon's carefully worded request, which acknowledges Hiram's superior resources and the renowned **Expertise** of his servants before making a demand. This strategic flattery (or genuine admiration) ensures a positive response and strengthens the alliance. The specific enumeration of "cedar trees, fir trees, and algum trees" serves as **Merism**, representing the full range of high-quality timber available, from the common yet essential to the rare and luxurious. The phrase "skill to cut timber" uses **Metonymy**, where "skill" stands for the skilled craftsmen themselves and their renowned abilities. Furthermore, the entire request, set within the context of building God's Temple, carries **Symbolism**: the grand scale and precious materials symbolize the majesty and holiness of God, for whom only the very best is deemed appropriate.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse offers profound theological insights into the nature of God's work and how He involves humanity in His plans. It demonstrates that while God is omnipotent and could supernaturally provide all resources, He often chooses to work through human collaboration, specialized skills, and international cooperation. Solomon's humble recognition of Hiram's servants' expertise models a vital principle for the body of Christ: valuing and utilizing diverse gifts and talents, whether within the community of faith or in partnership with those outside it, for the advancement of God's kingdom. The meticulous gathering of the finest materials for the physical Temple foreshadows the excellence and dedication required in building the spiritual "temple" of God's people today. It reminds us that God delights in our best efforts, our diligent preparation, and our willingness to partner with others to achieve His purposes.

* [Exodus 31:1-6](/exodus/31-1 "Exodus 31:1-6 - Bezalel and Oholiab, gifted craftsmen")
* [Romans 12:4-8](/romans/12-4 "Romans 12:4-8 - Diverse gifts in one body")
* [Ephesians 4:11-13](/ephesians/4-11 "Ephesians 4:11-13 - Gifts for building up the body of Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's request in 2 Chronicles 2:8 serves as a powerful reminder that significant undertakings for God's glory often require a blend of divine provision, human wisdom, and humble collaboration. Just as Solomon recognized the unique skills of Hiram's servants, we are called to discern and appreciate the diverse gifts within our communities and the broader world. This passage challenges us to move beyond insular thinking, encouraging us to seek out and partner with those who possess specialized knowledge or resources that can further God's work, whether in church ministry, community outreach, or global missions. It underscores the importance of valuing expertise, fostering good relationships, and working diligently with others, recognizing that God often uses human means and cooperative efforts to accomplish His grand designs. Our willingness to share resources, learn from others, and contribute our own strengths, as Solomon offered his servants, is crucial for building up the kingdom of God in tangible and spiritual ways.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry are you tempted to rely solely on your own abilities, rather than seeking out and valuing the specialized skills of others?**
* **How can you better recognize and affirm the unique gifts and expertise of those around you, fostering a spirit of collaboration rather than competition?**
* **What "temple" (spiritual project, community need, personal calling) is God inviting you to build, and what "resources" or "skilled labor" might He be prompting you to seek out or partner with?**
* **How does the pursuit of "excellence" in materials and craftsmanship for the Temple translate into our modern-day efforts in serving God and His people?**

### FAQ
**Why did Solomon need to ask Hiram for these specific trees and skilled laborers?**

Answer: Solomon needed to ask Hiram for these specific trees and skilled laborers because Tyre, under King Hiram, controlled access to the vast and prized cedar and fir forests of Lebanon, which were renowned for producing the highest quality timber in the ancient world. Furthermore, the Phoenicians (Tyrians and Sidonians) were unparalleled in their expertise in felling, transporting, and processing these massive trees, as well as in intricate woodworking. Israel, while possessing some timber and craftsmen, did not have the same scale of resources or specialized skill set required for a monumental project like the Temple. Solomon's request was a strategic move to secure the best materials and labor, demonstrating his wisdom in acknowledging and leveraging external strengths for God's work, as also seen in [1 Kings 5:6](/1_kings/5-6 "1 Kings 5:6 - Solomon requests Sidonian skill").

**What were "algum trees" and why were they important?**

Answer: "Algum trees" (also known as almug, particularly in [1 Kings 10:11](/1_kings/10-11 "1 Kings 10:11 - Almug wood from Ophir")) were a rare and highly valuable type of wood, likely imported from distant lands such as Ophir, possibly via Tyre's extensive trade routes. Unlike cedar and fir, which were primarily structural and general-purpose timbers, algum wood was prized for its beauty, fragrance, and fine grain, making it ideal for intricate and decorative work. It was specifically used for making musical instruments (harps and lyres) for the Temple musicians and for elaborate ornamentation within the Temple itself. Its inclusion underscores the extraordinary quality and luxurious nature of the materials dedicated to God's dwelling, signifying the utmost reverence and desire for excellence in His house.

**Does this passage suggest that God needs human help or resources to accomplish His plans?**

Answer: This passage does not suggest that God *needs* human help or resources in the sense of being limited or dependent. God is omnipotent and could accomplish His plans supernaturally. However, it beautifully illustrates that God *chooses* to work through human means, human cooperation, and human gifts. He involves His people in His redemptive purposes, allowing them the privilege of participating in His grand designs. Solomon's request and Hiram's cooperation demonstrate God's sovereign orchestration of circumstances and relationships, even across national boundaries, to bring about His will. It highlights the principle that while the ultimate power and provision come from God, He often uses our skills, resources, and collaborative efforts to build His kingdom, both literally and metaphorically.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The construction of the physical Temple in Jerusalem, meticulously planned and executed with the finest materials and skilled labor, ultimately points to a greater reality fulfilled in Jesus Christ. While Solomon's Temple served as the earthly dwelling place of God's presence among His people, it was a shadow of the ultimate, perfect sanctuary. Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, stating, "[Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus speaks of His body as the Temple")" (John 2:19), referring to His own body. He is the ultimate dwelling place of God, the one through whom God's presence is fully and perfectly manifested to humanity. Furthermore, Christ, as the chief cornerstone, builds His Church, a spiritual temple "[composed of living stones](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living stones in a spiritual house")" (1 Peter 2:5), where God's Spirit truly dwells. The diverse skills and cooperation seen in 2 Chronicles 2:8 foreshadow the multifaceted gifts and unified work of believers in the body of Christ, all working together under Christ, the ultimate Master Builder, to extend His kingdom and glorify God. The precious materials sought for the physical Temple find their true value in the priceless sacrifice of the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose perfect life and atoning death built the bridge between God and humanity, establishing the new and living way into God's presence.

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.