2 Chronicles 9:17

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

2 Chronicles 9:17 describes a key element of King Solomon's unparalleled wealth and splendor: his magnificent throne. This verse is part of a larger narrative detailing the opulence and divine favor experienced during Solomon's reign, particularly after the visit of the Queen of Sheba, who marveled at his wisdom and riches.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse offers a glimpse into the lavishness of the Israelite monarchy under King Solomon, a period considered the golden age of ancient Israel. Thrones in the ancient Near East were not merely seats but powerful symbols of authority, dominion, and divine appointment. Solomon's throne, described here and in parallel passages like 1 Kings 10:18-20, was renowned for its intricate design and precious materials. Ivory, likely imported from distant lands such as Africa or India, signified Solomon's extensive trade networks and access to exotic resources. The overlay of pure gold further emphasized the immense wealth and status of the king, reflecting the abundance God had bestowed upon him.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unparalleled Glory and Wealth: The construction of such a throne highlights the extraordinary prosperity and international prestige that characterized Solomon's reign. It was a visible manifestation of the blessings God had promised him for his wisdom (2 Chronicles 1:12).
  • Symbol of Authority: The throne itself was a powerful emblem of Solomon's judicial and political authority, from which he dispensed justice and governed the nation. Its grandeur underscored the majesty of God's chosen king.
  • Human Craftsmanship and Divine Provision: While Solomon employed skilled artisans to create such masterpieces, the ultimate source of the materials and the ability to acquire them was God's provision and blessing.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "ivory" is shen (ืฉึตืืŸ), which literally means "tooth," referring specifically to elephant tusks. This detail underscores the exotic and valuable nature of the material, which had to be imported. The term "pure gold" (zahab tahor, ื–ึธื”ึธื‘ ื˜ึธื”ื•ึนืจ) indicates gold of the highest quality, unadulterated, further emphasizing the extraordinary value and craftsmanship involved in creating this royal seat.

Practical Application

While we may not possess thrones of ivory and gold, this verse reminds us of several timeless principles. It illustrates the concept of divine blessing and the ability of God to grant abundance. However, it also subtly points to the potential pitfalls of immense wealth and power, as Solomon's later life revealed the temptations of pride and materialism. For believers today, it serves as a reminder to acknowledge God as the ultimate source of all good things (James 1:17) and to use any blessings, whether material or spiritual, for His glory rather than for self-aggrandizement.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 10:18 (3 votes)

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

  • 1 Kings 10:20 (3 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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

  • Revelation 20:11 (2 votes)

    ยถ 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.