2 Chronicles 4:16

The pots also, and the shovels, and the fleshhooks, and all their instruments, did Huram his father make to king Solomon for the house of the LORD of bright brass.

The pots {H5518} also, and the shovels {H3257}, and the fleshhooks {H4207}, and all their instruments {H3627}, did Huram {H2361} his father {H1} make {H6213} to king {H4428} Solomon {H8010} for the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068} of bright {H4838} brass {H5178}.

the ash pots, the shovels, the forks and all the other equipment for it. All these articles that Huram the master craftsman made for King Shlomo in the house of ADONAI were of brilliant bronze.

and the pots, shovels, meat forks, and all the other articles. All these objects that Huram-abi made for King Solomon for the house of the LORD were of polished bronze.

The pots also, and the shovels, and the flesh-hooks, and all the vessels thereof, did Huram his father make for king Solomon, for the house of Jehovah, of bright brass.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 4:16 KJV provides a succinct detail within the broader narrative of the construction and furnishing of King Solomon's magnificent Temple in Jerusalem. This verse highlights the essential bronze implements crafted by Huram, the master artisan, for the daily sacred services of the House of the LORD.

Context

This verse is part of a detailed inventory of the Temple's furnishings, specifically focusing on the extensive bronze work commissioned by King Solomon. Following descriptions of larger items like the bronze altar, the Molten Sea, and the ten lavers, 2 Chronicles 4:16 turns to the smaller, yet equally crucial, instruments used in the Temple's sacrificial and maintenance rituals. Huram (also known as Hiram in 1 Kings 7:13), a highly skilled craftsman from Tyre, was pivotal in executing these intricate metal pieces, demonstrating the collaboration between Solomon and King Hiram of Tyre in this grand project for the House of the LORD.

Key Themes

  • Meticulous Preparation for Worship: The enumeration of items like "pots, shovels, and fleshhooks" underscores the belief that every aspect of Temple service, even the most practical and seemingly mundane, required careful design and execution. This level of detail reflects the profound reverence for God and the sacredness of the sacrificial system.
  • Dedication of Resources and Skill: King Solomon spared no expense, and Huram dedicated his exceptional talent to God's house. The use of "bright brass" and the creation of "all their instruments" illustrates the principle of offering one's best in service to the divine, a theme echoed in Proverbs 3:9.
  • Functionality for Sacred Purpose: These instruments were not merely decorative; they were vital tools for carrying out the various functions of the Temple, from handling the ashes of burnt offerings to managing the sacrificial flesh. Their very existence speaks to the practical demands of the elaborate worship rituals prescribed by God.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Huram his father" (ื›ึผึฐืึธื‘ึดื™ื• ื—ึดื™ืจึธื, k'aviv Hฤซrฤm) does not imply a biological relationship but is an honorific title. In ancient Near Eastern contexts, "father" (ืื‘, 'av) could denote a master craftsman, a chief advisor, or a highly respected mentor. This signifies Huram's supreme skill and authoritative role in the metalworking for the Temple, a testament to his expertise being recognized and highly valued by King Solomon.

"Bright brass" refers to a highly polished bronze. This detail emphasizes the quality and gleam of the finished articles, designed not just for utility but also for beauty and dignity befitting God's sanctuary. The use of brass (bronze) was common for durable and functional items in ancient temples.

Practical Application

  • Excellence in Service: This verse reminds us that our service to God, whether in grand projects or seemingly small tasks, should be done with excellence and attention to detail. Just as the Temple instruments were made with precision, our contributions to God's work should reflect our best effort and dedication.
  • Every Tool Has a Purpose: Each item, from pots to fleshhooks, had a specific function in the Temple's operation. Similarly, in the spiritual realm, every believer and every gift is valuable and has a purpose in the body of Christ. Even seemingly ordinary or behind-the-scenes tasks contribute significantly to the larger work of God's kingdom.
  • Consecration of Skills: Huram's extraordinary skill was consecrated and dedicated to the Lord's house. We too are called to consecrate our talents, professions, and resources for God's glory, recognizing that they are gifts from Him to be used for His purposes, as seen in Romans 12:1.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 2:13

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

  • 1 Kings 7:13

    ยถ And king Solomon sent and fetched Hiram out of Tyre.

  • 1 Kings 7:14

    He [was] a widow's son of the tribe of Naphtali, and his father [was] a man of Tyre, a worker in brass: and he was filled with wisdom, and understanding, and cunning to work all works in brass. And he came to king Solomon, and wrought all his work.

  • 1 Chronicles 28:17

    Also pure gold for the fleshhooks, and the bowls, and the cups: and for the golden basons [he gave gold] by weight for every bason; and [likewise silver] by weight for every bason of silver:

  • 2 Chronicles 4:11

    ยถ And Huram made the pots, and the shovels, and the basons. And Huram finished the work that he was to make for king Solomon for the house of God;

  • Exodus 38:3

    And he made all the vessels of the altar, the pots, and the shovels, and the basons, [and] the fleshhooks, and the firepans: all the vessels thereof made he [of] brass.

  • 1 Kings 7:45

    And the pots, and the shovels, and the basons: and all these vessels, which Hiram made to king Solomon for the house of the LORD, [were of] bright brass.
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