TRV
- English
- King James KJV
- Complete Jewish CJB
- World English WEBM
- Berean Standard BSB
- American Standard ASV
- Geneva GNV
- Young's Literal YLT
- Douay-Rheims DRC
- International
- Shqip ALB
- العربية SVD
- বাংলা BN-IRV
- မြန်မာ Judson
- 简体文 CUV-S
- 繁體中文 CUV-T
- Čeština BKR
- Nederlands STVE
- Français LSG
- Deutsch SCH
- Ελληνικά Vamvas
- ગુજરાતી GU-IRV
- Hausa HCB
- עברית Hebrew
- हिन्दी HCV
- Magyar KAROLI
- Bahasa Indonesia INDO-TB
- Italiano Diodati
- 日本語 Kougo
- 한국어 Korean
- മലയാളം MAL
- मराठी MRCV
- Norsk DNB
- فارسی OPV
- Polski BG
- Português Almeida
- Română Cornilescu
- Русский Synodal
- Español RVG
- Kiswahili Neno
- Svenska SV1917
- Tagalog TAG-ADB
- தமிழ் TCV
- తెలుగు TSA
- ภาษาไทย THAI-KJV
- Українська Ohienko
- Tiếng Việt CADMAN
- Yorùbá YCB
See on the biblical-era map
Study this verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Chronicles 9:13–31. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
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.
Continue studying 2 Chronicles 9:21 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
Summary
Second Chronicles 9:21 vividly portrays the unparalleled opulence and extensive global reach of King Solomon's reign, detailing his sophisticated maritime trade operations. This verse highlights the triennial arrival of a fleet of ships, operated in conjunction with King Huram of Tyre, laden with an extraordinary array of precious metals and exotic animals, underscoring the immense wealth and international connections that characterized this golden age of Israel.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed within a larger section (2 Chronicles 9:13-28) that meticulously catalogues the immense wealth, wisdom, and glory of King Solomon. It immediately follows descriptions of his vast gold and silver reserves, emphasizing the source of his material abundance and the sheer volume of precious metals in his kingdom, where silver was said to be as common as stones, a detail highlighted in 2 Chronicles 9:20. The account of these maritime voyages is also found in a parallel passage in 1 Kings 10:22, reinforcing its significance and the Chronicler's intent to present Solomon's reign as a pinnacle of divine blessing and national prosperity, serving as an ideal against which later kings would be measured.
Historical & Cultural Context
Solomon's era (c. 970-931 BC) was a period of relative peace and significant economic expansion for Israel. His strategic alliance with Huram (Hiram), the skilled Phoenician king of Tyre, was crucial for these ambitious maritime ventures. The Phoenicians were renowned seafarers, and their expertise was indispensable for long-distance voyages. "Tarshish" likely refers to a distant port, possibly Tartessos in modern-day Spain, or it could be a general term for any far-off trading destination, signifying the extraordinary scope of Solomon's commercial empire. The importation of exotic animals and luxury goods was a common practice among powerful ancient Near Eastern monarchs, serving as a display of wealth, prestige, and dominion over vast resources, reflecting the prevailing cultural norms of royal display.
Key Themes
The verse powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the Chronicler's narrative. Firstly, it underscores the Unrivaled Prosperity of Solomon's reign, emphasizing the sheer scale of wealth accumulated through international trade, distinguishing him as surpassing all other kings in riches and wisdom, as explicitly stated in 2 Chronicles 9:22. Secondly, it highlights Israel's International Influence and Solomon's diplomatic and commercial prowess, extending his kingdom's reach far beyond its immediate borders through these sophisticated trade networks. Thirdly, while focusing on material aspects, the Chronicler implicitly presents this extraordinary prosperity as a direct manifestation of Divine Blessing and the fulfillment of God's promises to Solomon regarding wisdom and wealth, as initially recorded in 1 Kings 3:13.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
The precise geographical location of Tarshish remains a subject of scholarly debate, with theories ranging from a port in modern-day Spain (Tartessos) to a general term for a distant, significant trading center accessible by sea. Regardless of its exact location, its mention here emphasizes the extraordinary distance and scale of Solomon's trade network, signifying the immense global reach of his kingdom and the exotic nature of the goods acquired. It denotes a far-off destination that required extensive travel and time to reach.
Also known as Hiram in 1 Kings, Huram was the king of Tyre, a powerful Phoenician city-state renowned for its maritime prowess. His alliance with Solomon was instrumental, as his skilled mariners provided the navigational expertise necessary for these ambitious, long-distance voyages. The inclusion of "servants of Huram" highlights the strategic international partnerships that underpinned Solomon's prosperity and the reliance on Phoenician seafaring mastery.
These exotic primates, likely monkeys, were not native to Israel and would have been imported from distant lands, possibly India or Africa. Their presence in the royal inventory signifies extreme luxury and the king's ability to acquire rare and unusual treasures. As a symbol of opulence, apes served as a clear status symbol for a monarch of unparalleled wealth and prestige, demonstrating his access to the most coveted and unusual items from across the known world.
Verse Breakdown
"For the king's ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram:"
This clause establishes the primary actors and the destination of the voyages. It highlights that these were royal expeditions, indicating state-sponsored trade, and underscores the vital collaboration with King Huram of Tyre, whose experienced Phoenician mariners were essential for navigating the vast distances to Tarshish. This partnership demonstrates Solomon's strategic alliances and the international scope of his economic endeavors.
"every three years once came the ships of Tarshish"
This phrase specifies the frequency of these voyages. The triennial cycle suggests a well-established, regular trade route, indicating the immense logistical planning and resources required for such long-distance maritime operations. The infrequency also emphasizes the considerable time it took to complete these journeys, further highlighting the remoteness of Tarshish and the extraordinary nature of the enterprise, a testament to Solomon's enduring commercial power.
"bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks."
This detailed enumeration of the cargo underscores the immense value and exotic nature of the imports. Gold and silver represent pure wealth, while ivory (elephant tusks) was a prized material for luxury goods and decorations. The inclusion of live animals like apes and peacocks signifies the ultimate display of royal extravagance, prestige, and the king's ability to acquire the rarest and most unusual treasures from the farthest corners of the earth, solidifying his reputation as the wealthiest monarch of his time.
Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several Literary Devices to amplify the grandeur of Solomon's reign in this verse. The most prominent is Catalogue or List, where the specific enumeration of "gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks" serves to impress upon the reader the vastness, diversity, and exotic nature of Solomon's accumulated wealth. This detailed listing creates a vivid mental image of overflowing abundance and royal splendor. Furthermore, there is an element of Hyperbole or Exaggeration, typical of ancient Near Eastern royal accounts, as the Chronicler aims to present Solomon's reign as an unparalleled golden age. While the trade was undoubtedly real, the emphasis on "every three years" and the sheer volume and variety of exotic goods contribute to an almost mythical portrayal of royal splendor, underscoring the king's unique status. Finally, the exotic animals like Apes and Peacocks function as powerful Symbols of royal prestige, unparalleled luxury, and the king's dominion over vast resources and distant lands, showcasing his unique access to the world's most coveted treasures.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse, situated within the Chronicler's highly idealized portrayal of Solomon, serves as a powerful testament to God's ability to grant extraordinary material blessings and wisdom to His chosen leaders. Solomon's unprecedented wealth and global influence are presented not merely as human achievement but as a direct fulfillment of divine promises, particularly God's pledge to grant him riches and honor alongside wisdom, as recorded in 1 Kings 3:13. The abundance of gold, silver, and exotic treasures symbolizes the peace and prosperity that God intended for Israel under a righteous king. However, while the Chronicler focuses on the positive aspects, the broader biblical narrative reminds us that such immense material prosperity, if not properly stewarded and if it leads to self-reliance rather than reliance on God, can become a spiritual snare, ultimately contributing to a king's moral and spiritual decline. This serves as a subtle theological warning about the transient nature of earthly treasures compared to enduring spiritual riches.
Reflection and Application
The vivid depiction of Solomon's extraordinary wealth and global reach in 2 Chronicles 9:21 invites us to reflect on the nature of blessings, stewardship, and the true source of lasting prosperity. While God abundantly blessed Solomon, this passage also subtly reminds us of the potential pitfalls of immense material wealth. For the modern believer, it prompts us to consider how we perceive and pursue "riches." Is our focus on accumulating earthly treasures that are fleeting, or on seeking heavenly treasures that endure? God's provision for Solomon was intended to glorify Him and advance His purposes, such as the building of the Temple. Similarly, any resources or blessings we receive are ultimately from God and are to be stewarded for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom, not merely for personal accumulation or indulgence. This verse challenges us to examine our hearts regarding material possessions and to cultivate a spirit of gratitude, generosity, and dependence on God, rather than on our wealth, recognizing that true security and lasting fulfillment are found only in Him.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was Tarshish, and why was it significant to Solomon's trade?
The precise geographical location of "Tarshish" is a subject of ongoing scholarly debate. It is often identified with Tartessos, an ancient port city in southern Spain, or it may have been a general term for any distant, significant trading center accessible by sea, particularly in the western Mediterranean. Its significance to Solomon's trade lies in the immense distance it represented, symbolizing the extraordinary global reach of his commercial empire. Voyages to Tarshish underscored his unprecedented wealth, influence, and ability to establish long-distance trade routes, bringing exotic and highly valuable goods from far-off lands to Israel. This demonstrated his kingdom's unparalleled prosperity and international standing, as also noted in 1 Kings 10:22.
Why are "apes" and "peacocks" specifically mentioned in the cargo list?
The specific mention of "apes" and "peacocks" highlights the extreme luxury and exotic nature of the imports. These animals were not native to Israel and would have been incredibly rare and expensive to acquire, likely sourced from distant regions like India or Africa. Their presence in the royal inventory served as clear indicators of immense wealth, royal prestige, and the king's unique ability to procure the most unusual and valuable treasures from around the world. They were ultimate status symbols, demonstrating Solomon's unrivaled opulence and his dominion over vast resources.
How does this verse relate to the overall narrative of Solomon's reign in the Bible?
This verse encapsulates the zenith of Solomon's material prosperity and global influence, portraying a period of unprecedented wealth, peace, and international connections for Israel. The Chronicler emphasizes this as a direct result of God's blessing upon Solomon's wisdom and obedience, presenting his reign as an ideal golden age. While the verse focuses on the splendor, the broader biblical narrative (especially in 1 Kings 11) also reveals that this immense wealth and foreign influence, coupled with his many foreign wives, eventually contributed to Solomon's spiritual decline and the introduction of idolatry into Israel. Thus, 2 Chronicles 9:21 stands as a high point of material glory, but also implicitly foreshadows the dangers of unchecked prosperity and the importance of remaining faithful to God.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The unparalleled wealth and glory of Solomon, as vividly depicted in 2 Chronicles 9:21, serve as a type and shadow pointing to the far greater, eternal riches found in Jesus Christ. Solomon's kingdom, though magnificent, was earthly and temporal, eventually succumbing to division and decline. His wisdom, though divinely granted, ultimately failed to prevent his own spiritual compromise. In contrast, Jesus is the true King, whose kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36), and whose reign is eternal and incorruptible. He is the one of whom it is said, "something greater than Solomon is here" (Matthew 12:42). While Solomon's ships brought gold, silver, and exotic animals, Christ offers spiritual treasures that do not fade—righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). He is the ultimate source of all wisdom, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3). The material abundance of Solomon's reign, impressive as it was, ultimately pales in comparison to the spiritual abundance and eternal inheritance that believers receive through faith in Christ, the true and everlasting King, whose glory surpasses all earthly splendor.