TRV
Translation
King James Version
Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold.
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.
World English Bible Messianic
Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold.
Young's Literal Translation
And the king maketh a great throne of ivory, and overlayeth it with pure gold;
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Commentary on 2 Chronicles 9 verses 13–31
13 ¶ Now the weight of gold that came to Solomon in one year was six hundred and threescore and six talents of gold;
14 Beside that which chapmen and merchants brought. And all the kings of Arabia and governors of the country brought gold and silver to Solomon.
15 And king Solomon made two hundred targets of beaten gold: six hundred shekels of beaten gold went to one target.
16 And three hundred shields made he of beaten gold: three hundred shekels of gold went to one shield. And the king put them in the house of the forest of Lebanon.
17 Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold.
18 And there were six steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold, which were fastened to the throne, and stays on each side of the sitting place, and two lions standing by the stays:
19 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.
20 And all the drinking vessels of king Solomon were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold: none were of silver; it was not any thing accounted of in the days of Solomon.
21 For the king's ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks.
22 And king Solomon passed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom.
23 And all the kings of the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his wisdom, that God had put in his heart.
24 And they brought every man his present, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, harness, and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.
25 And Solomon had four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen; whom he bestowed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.
26 And he reigned over all the kings from the river even unto the land of the Philistines, and to the border of Egypt.
27 And the king made silver in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that are in the low plains in abundance.
28 And they brought unto Solomon horses out of Egypt, and out of all lands.
29 Now the rest of the acts of Solomon, first and last, are they not written in the book of Nathan the prophet, and in the prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite, and in the visions of Iddo the seer against Jeroboam the son of Nebat?
30 And Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel forty years.
31 And Solomon slept with his fathers, and he was buried in the city of David his father: and Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead.
We have here Solomon in his throne, and Solomon in his grave; for the throne would not secure him from the grave. Mors sceptra ligonibus aequat - Death wrenches from the hand the sceptre as well as the spade.
I. Here is Solomon reigning in wealth and power, in ease and fulness, such as, for aught I know, could never since be paralleled by any king whatsoever. In cannot pretend to be critical in comparing the grandeur of Solomon with that of some of the great princes of the earth. But I may observe that the most illustrious of them were famed for their wars, whereas Solomon reigned forty years in profound peace. Some of those that might be thought to vie with Solomon affected retirement, kept people in awe by keeping them at a great distance; nobody must see them, or come near him, upon pain of death: but Solomon went much abroad, and appeared in public business. So that, all things considered, the promise was fulfilled, that God would give him riches, and wealth, and honour, such as no kings have had, or shall have, Ch2 1:12. 1. Never any prince appeared in public with great splendour than Solomon did, which to those that judge by the sight of the eye, as most people do, would very much recommend him. He had 200 targets and 300 shields, all of beaten gold, carried before him (Ch2 9:15, Ch2 9:16), and sat upon a most stately throne, Ch2 9:17-19. There was not the like in any kingdom. The lustre wherein he appeared was typical of the spiritual glory of the kingdom of the Messiah and but a faint representation of his throne, which is above every throne. Solomon's pomp was all artificial; and therefore our Saviour prefers the natural beauty of the lilies of the field before it. Mat 6:29, Solomon, in all his glory, was not arrayed like one of these. 2. Never any prince had greater plenty of gold and silver, though there were no gold or silver mines in his own kingdom. Either he made himself master of the mines in other countries, and, having a populous country, sent hands to dig out those rich metals, or, having a fruitful country, he exported the commodities of it and with them fetched home all this gold that is here spoken of, Ch2 9:13, Ch2 9:14-21. 3. Never any prince had such presents brought him by all his neighbours as Solomon had: All the kings of Arabia, and governors of the country, brought him gold and silver (Ch2 9:14), not as tribute which he extorted from them, but as freewill offerings to procure his favour, or in a way of exchange for some of the productions of his husbandry, corn or cattle. All the kings of the earth brought him presents, that is, all in those parts of the world (Ch2 9:24, Ch2 9:28), because they coveted his acquaintance and friendship. Herein he was a type of Christ, to whom, as soon as he was born, the wise men of the east brought presents, gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Mat 2:11), and to whom all that are about him must bring presents, Psa 76:11; Rom 12:1. 4. Never any prince was so renowned for wisdom, so courted, so consulted, so admired (Ch2 9:23): The kings of the earth (for it was too great a favour for common persons to pretend to) sought to hear his wisdom - his natural philosophy, or his skill in physic, or his state policy, or his rules of prudence for the conduct of human life, or perhaps the principles of his religion, and the reasons of it. The application which they then made to Solomon to hear his wisdom will aggravate, shame, and condemn, men's general contempt of Christ and his gospel. Though in them are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, yet none of the princes of this world desire to know them, for they are foolishness to them, Co1 2:8, Co1 2:14.
II. Here is Solomon dying, stripped of his pomp, and leaving all his wealth and power, not to one concerning whom he knew not whether he would be a wise man or a fool (Ecc 2:19), but who he knew would be a fool. This was not only vanity but vexation of spirit, Ch2 9:29-31. It is very observable that no mention is here made of Solomon's departure from God in his latter days, not the least hint given of it, 1. Because the Holy Ghost would teach us not to take delight in repeating the faults and follies of others. If those that have been in reputation for wisdom and honour misbehave, though it may be of use to take notice of their misconduct for warning to ourselves and others, yet we must not be forward to mention it, once the speaking of it is enough; why should that unpleasing string be again struck upon? Why can we not do as the sacred historian here does, speak largely of that in others which is praise-worthy, without saying any thing of their blemishes, yea, though they have been gross and obvious? This is but doing as we would be done by. 2. Because, though he fell, yet he was not utterly cast down. His sin is not again recorded, because it was repented of, and pardoned, and became as if it had never been. Scripture-silence sometimes speaks. I am willing to believe that its silence here concerning the sin of Solomon is an intimation that none of the sins he committed were mentioned against him, Eze 33:16. When God pardons sin he casts it behind his back and remembers it no more.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 13–31. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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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
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The description of Solomon's throne in 2 Chronicles 9:17 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. 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.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed description of Solomon's throne in 2 Chronicles 9:17 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). 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
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 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), 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). 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 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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).