2 Chronicles 9:17

KJV

Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold.

KJV (with Strong's)

Moreover the king {H4428} made {H6213} a great {H1419} throne {H3678} of ivory {H8127}, and overlaid {H6823} it with pure {H2889} gold {H2091}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The king also made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold.

Berean Standard Bible

Additionally, the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold.

American Standard Version

Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 9:17 offers a vivid glimpse into the unparalleled opulence and majesty of King Solomon's reign, specifically through the description of his magnificent throne. Crafted from precious imported ivory and lavishly overlaid with pure gold, this royal seat transcended mere furniture, standing as a potent symbol of divine favor, earthly dominion, and the zenith of Israel's prosperity, reflecting the immense blessings and wisdom bestowed upon Solomon by God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the broader narrative of 2 Chronicles, particularly chapters 1-9, which meticulously chronicle the extraordinary glory, profound wisdom, and immense wealth that characterized King Solomon's reign. Immediately preceding this description of the throne, the text recounts the awe-struck visit of the Queen of Sheba, whose astonishment at Solomon's wisdom and riches (as detailed in [2 Chronicles 9:1-12](/2_chronicles/9-1-12 "2 Chronicles 9:1-12 - The Queen of Sheba's Visit to Solomon")) serves as a narrative crescendo, setting the stage for further elaborations on his unparalleled opulence. The account of the throne in [2 Chronicles 9:17-19](/2_chronicles/9-17-19 "2 Chronicles 9:17-19 - Description of Solomon's Throne") closely parallels the description found in [1 Kings 10:18-20](/1_kings/10-18-20 "1 Kings 10:18-20 - Solomon's Throne in 1 Kings"), underscoring the king's unique status and the divine source of his prosperity. Following this detailed portrayal of the throne, the Chronicler continues to enumerate Solomon's vast annual income (see [2 Chronicles 9:13-16](/2_chronicles/9-13-16 "2 Chronicles 9:13-16 - Solomon's Annual Income")) and his formidable military strength, all contributing to the overarching theme of his unprecedented prosperity and international prestige, which ultimately culminates in his death and the subsequent division of the kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, thrones were far more than utilitarian pieces of furniture; they functioned as profound symbols of royal authority, divine appointment, and the king's sacred role as the dispenser of justice and wisdom. The materials chosen for their construction were deliberate, often reflecting the monarch's power, immense wealth, and extensive access to exotic and rare resources. Ivory, derived from elephant tusks, was an incredibly valuable and scarce commodity, typically imported from distant lands such as Africa or India, signifying extensive trade networks and immense affluence, as further evidenced by Solomon's trade fleet in [2 Chronicles 9:21](/2_chronicles/9-21 "2 Chronicles 9:21 - Solomon's Trade Fleet"). Gold, especially "pure gold," represented the highest form of wealth, purity, and enduring value, frequently associated with divinity and ultimate worth. Solomon's reign (c. 970-931 BC) is widely regarded by historians as the zenith of Israelite power and prosperity, a period characterized by relative peace, extensive international relations, and significant architectural achievements, making such a lavish throne a fitting and powerful emblem of his era's grandeur.
* **Key Themes:** The construction of Solomon's throne, as described in this verse, powerfully contributes to several central themes within the book of 2 Chronicles. Firstly, it emphatically underscores the theme of **Unparalleled Glory and Wealth**, serving as a tangible manifestation of God's direct fulfillment of His promise to Solomon in [2 Chronicles 1:12](/2_chronicles/1-12 "2 Chronicles 1:12 - God's Promise of Wealth and Honor to Solomon") to grant him riches, wealth, and honor beyond any king before or after him. This material splendor is presented as a direct and visible sign of divine blessing and favor. Secondly, the throne functions as a potent **Symbol of Authority and Justice**, from which Solomon governed and dispensed his renowned wisdom, thereby reinforcing his divinely appointed role as king and judge over Israel. Its sheer grandeur visually emphasized the majesty and legitimacy of God's chosen ruler. Lastly, the throne highlights the intricate interplay between **Human Craftsmanship and Divine Provision**; while skilled artisans were undoubtedly employed to create this masterpiece, the ultimate source of the precious materials and the ability to acquire them was God's abundant provision and overflowing blessing upon Solomon's kingdom, demonstrating that all true prosperity flows from Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **King (Hebrew, _melek'_):** This term (H4428) refers to the monarch, the supreme ruler of a nation. In the context of 2 Chronicles, "the king" specifically denotes Solomon, whose reign is presented as the epitome of Israelite glory and prosperity. The mention of "the king" here emphasizes his singular authority and the immense resources at his command, signifying his unique position as God's chosen ruler over Israel.
* **Throne (Hebrew, _kiççêʼ'_):** This word (H3678) denotes a seat of state, specifically a royal chair or a canopied seat. More than mere furniture, a "throne" in biblical literature is the very locus of royal power, judgment, and authority. Solomon's throne, therefore, was not just a symbol but the physical embodiment of his God-given authority to rule and administer justice, reflecting the stability and legitimacy of his reign.
* **Ivory (Hebrew, _shên'_):** Literally meaning "tooth" (H8127), this term specifically refers to elephant tusks. Its use in the construction of the throne immediately conveys the exotic, rare, and immensely valuable nature of the material. Ivory was a luxury item, typically imported from distant lands, and its presence on Solomon's throne underscored his vast wealth, extensive trade networks, and international prestige, further emphasizing the unique and unparalleled splendor of his kingdom.
* **Gold (Hebrew, _zâhâb'_):** This word (H2091) refers to the precious metal, often associated with wealth, purity, and divine glory. The text specifies "pure" (H2889, _ṭâhôwr_) gold, highlighting the highest quality and unadulterated nature of the metal used. The emphasis on "pure gold" signifies not only extraordinary value and meticulous craftsmanship in overlaying the throne but also reflects the abundance and excellence of the blessings God had bestowed upon Solomon, connecting earthly wealth with divine favor.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory":** This opening clause immediately establishes King Solomon's active role in commissioning and creating this magnificent piece of royal furniture. The adjective "great" (H1419, _gâdôwl_) immediately signals the extraordinary scale, impressiveness, and grandeur of the throne, setting it apart from any ordinary royal seat. The deliberate choice of "ivory" (H8127, _shên_) as the primary material speaks volumes about the king's vast resources, his access to rare and imported luxury goods, and his extensive international trade networks, signifying his unparalleled wealth and global reach.
* **"and overlaid it with pure gold":** This second clause details the lavish and opulent finishing of the throne. The verb "overlaid" (H6823, _tsâphâh_) suggests a complete covering, not merely an accent or embellishment, with the most precious metal available. The specific mention of "pure" (H2889, _ṭâhôwr_) gold (H2091, _zâhâb_) emphasizes the highest quality, unblemished nature, and immense value of the material used, underscoring the extraordinary cost and unparalleled opulence of the throne. This combination of exotic ivory and unblemished gold created a visual spectacle that served as a powerful symbol of the peak of Solomon's earthly glory and the abundant divine blessings upon his reign.

#### Literary Devices
The description of Solomon's throne in [2 Chronicles 9:17](/2_chronicles/9-17 "2 Chronicles 9:17 - Solomon's Throne") employs several literary devices to effectively convey its grandeur and profound significance. **Symbolism** is paramount, as the throne itself transcends its functional purpose to become a powerful emblem of Solomon's divinely appointed authority, his unparalleled wisdom, and his immense wealth. The materials used—ivory and pure gold—are also highly **symbolic**, representing exotic luxury, purity, enduring value, and divine favor, thereby reinforcing the king's unique status and the extraordinary nature of his kingdom. The vivid, though concise, **description** of the throne contributes significantly to the Chronicler's overarching narrative of Solomon's splendor, creating a mental image of unparalleled opulence and majesty. While not explicit **hyperbole**, the sheer lavishness described implies an extraordinary, almost unbelievable level of wealth, perfectly fitting the Chronicler's intent to portray Solomon's reign as a golden age, a direct manifestation of divine blessing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The construction of Solomon's throne, with its lavish materials and intricate design, stands as a profound theological statement about God's abundant blessings upon His chosen king and nation. It powerfully demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the promise of unparalleled wealth and honor given to Solomon in [2 Chronicles 1:12](/2_chronicles/1-12 "2 Chronicles 1:12 - God's Promise of Wealth and Honor to Solomon"). This material splendor was not merely for human glorification but was intended to reflect the glory of God's kingdom on earth, showcasing the prosperity and peace that flow from divine wisdom and obedience. However, the Chronicler, while celebrating this peak of glory, also subtly prepares the reader for the inevitable decline, hinting at the inherent dangers of immense wealth and power if not stewarded with humility and unwavering fidelity to God. The throne, therefore, becomes a complex symbol, representing both the zenith of divine favor and the potential pitfalls of earthly glory when it overshadows devotion to the Giver of all good things.

* [1 Kings 10:18-20](/1_kings/10-18-20 "Parallel Description of Solomon's Throne")
* [2 Chronicles 1:12](/2_chronicles/1-12 "God's Promise of Wealth and Honor to Solomon")
* [Proverbs 20:28](/proverbs/20-28 "Steadfast Love and Righteousness Preserve a King")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed description of Solomon's throne in [2 Chronicles 9:17](/2_chronicles/9-17 "2 Chronicles 9:17 - Solomon's Throne") invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of true wealth, the source of authority, and the meaning of divine blessing in our own lives. While we may not possess thrones of ivory and gold, the underlying principles remain profoundly relevant. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that all good and perfect gifts come from God, the Father of lights (as articulated in [James 1:17](/james/1-17 "James 1:17 - Every Good and Perfect Gift")). Prosperity, when granted, is a testament to His generosity, faithfulness, and the abundance of His provision. However, Solomon's later life, marked by spiritual compromise and idolatry, serves as a poignant cautionary tale. It reminds us that immense material blessings, if not carefully stewarded with humility and unwavering devotion, can lead to pride, distraction, and a departure from God's commands, ultimately eroding the very foundation of true flourishing. For believers today, the challenge is to acknowledge God as the ultimate source of all our resources—whether material possessions, intellectual capacities, spiritual gifts, or positions of influence—and to commit to using them for His glory, for the advancement of His kingdom, and for the benefit of others, rather than for self-aggrandizement or worldly pursuits that distract us from our true purpose. Our "throne" of influence, whatever its size or scope, should be a platform for justice, wisdom, and selfless service, reflecting God's character and His reign in our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the description of Solomon's throne challenge or affirm our contemporary understanding of wealth, success, and divine blessing?**
* **In what ways might we, like Solomon, be tempted to rely on earthly splendor, personal achievements, or accumulated resources rather than on God's enduring wisdom and grace?**
* **How can we ensure that any blessings, talents, or positions of influence we receive are consistently used for God's glory and the good of others, rather than for self-promotion or fleeting worldly pursuits?**

### FAQ

**Was Solomon's throne truly unique among ancient monarchs?**

Answer: Yes, the biblical text strongly emphasizes the unparalleled nature of Solomon's throne. [1 Kings 10:20](/1_kings/10-20 "1 Kings 10:20 - There was nothing like it in any kingdom") explicitly states, "there was not the like made in any kingdom." While other ancient Near Eastern kings certainly possessed magnificent thrones, Solomon's was distinguished by its specific combination of exotic ivory, pure gold overlay, and the twelve lion figures (six on each side, as described in the parallel passage in [1 Kings 10:19](/1_kings/10-19 "1 Kings 10:19 - Solomon's Throne with Twelve Lions")), which likely symbolized the twelve tribes of Israel and the king's strength and justice. This unique design, the sheer value of its materials, and the symbolic lions collectively set it apart as a testament to his unprecedented wealth, wisdom, and divinely bestowed status.

**What was the significance of using ivory for the throne?**

Answer: The use of ivory was highly significant for several reasons in the ancient world. Firstly, ivory was an extremely valuable and exotic material, indicating immense wealth and the ability to acquire rare commodities from distant lands. Its presence on the throne highlighted Solomon's extensive trade networks, including the "Tarshish ships" that brought gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks every three years (as noted in [2 Chronicles 9:21](/2_chronicles/9-21 "2 Chronicles 9:21 - Solomon's Trade Fleet")). Secondly, ivory was often associated with luxury, beauty, and durability, making it a fitting material for a throne intended to symbolize a king's lasting power and splendor. Its inclusion underscored Solomon's international prestige and his access to resources far beyond the typical borders of Israel, marking his reign as a period of exceptional affluence and influence.

**Did this immense wealth and splendor ultimately benefit Solomon and Israel in the long term?**

Answer: While Solomon's reign was initially a period of unparalleled peace, prosperity, and divine blessing, his vast accumulation of wealth and power, ironically, ultimately contributed to his spiritual decline and the eventual division of the kingdom. The warnings given to future kings in [Deuteronomy 17:16-17](/deuteronomy/17-16-17 "Deuteronomy 17:16-17 - Warnings for the King") cautioned against multiplying horses, silver, and gold, and especially against multiplying wives, lest their hearts turn away from the Lord. Solomon, despite his renowned wisdom, famously violated all these prohibitions, leading to idolatry and a divided heart (as detailed in [1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1-8 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Idolatry and Decline")). Thus, while the throne symbolized a peak of God's blessing, it also subtly foreshadowed the inherent dangers of unchecked earthly power and the potential for material blessings to become a snare if not stewarded with unwavering fidelity and humility before God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Solomon's magnificent throne, meticulously crafted from exotic ivory and lavishly overlaid with pure gold, stands as a powerful earthly type, or foreshadowing, of a far greater, heavenly reality found supremely in Jesus Christ. Solomon's reign, characterized by unparalleled wisdom, immense wealth, and a period of relative peace, was a glorious but ultimately imperfect and temporal shadow of the eternal kingdom of God. While Solomon sat on a physical throne, dispensing earthly justice and ruling over a temporal kingdom, Jesus Christ now sits at the right hand of God on a spiritual and eternal throne, exercising ultimate authority and perfect justice over all creation (as affirmed in [Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ Seated at God's Right Hand")). The divine promise to David that his throne would be established forever finds its ultimate and everlasting fulfillment not merely in Solomon's lineage, but preeminently in Christ, who is the true Son of David and whose kingdom will have no end (as prophesied in [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus' Eternal Kingdom")). The profound wisdom Solomon displayed, which drew the Queen of Sheba to marvel at his glory, is fully embodied in Christ, who is revealed as the very wisdom of God (see [1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ, Our Wisdom")). The spiritual riches and unblemished glory of Christ's heavenly kingdom far surpass the material splendor of Solomon's throne, which, though magnificent, was ultimately perishable and subject to the ravages of time and human sin. In Christ, we behold the perfect King, whose reign is eternal, whose wisdom is infinite, and whose kingdom is built not on perishable gold and ivory, but on righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (as described in [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")). This leads us to the ultimate eschatological vision of God and the Lamb on the throne in the New Jerusalem, where His servants will reign forever and ever (foretold in [Revelation 22:1-5](/rev/22-1-5 "Revelation 22:1-5 - The River of Life and the Throne of God")).

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

1 Kings 10:18

Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with the best gold.

1 Kings 10:20

And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom.

Psalms 45:8

All thy garments [smell] of myrrh, and aloes, [and] cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad.

Revelation 20:11

¶ And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.