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Jewish Publication Society Bible: 2 Chronicles 2

Book of ChroniclesHebrew Bible TranslationJewish Publication Society Bible

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This is a passage from the Hebrew Bible, specifically 2 Chronicles chapter 2, a historical-religious narrative recounting Solomon's preparations to build the Temple in Jerusalem. The text details Solomon's massive labor mobilization — tens of thousands of burden-bearers, stonecutters, and overseers — and his diplomatic correspondence with Hiram (Huram), king of Tyre, negotiating for skilled craftsmen and Lebanese timber in exchange for agricultural commodities. Solomon's letter frames the Temple project in explicitly theological terms, acknowledging that no physical structure can truly contain God while asserting that building it is nonetheless an act of devotion and perpetual ordinance for Israel. A distinctive theological tension runs through Solomon's request: he poses the rhetorical question of how any house could contain a God whom even the heavens cannot hold, yet proceeds with the construction anyway, framing the Temple as an offering rather than a dwelling. Hiram's reply is notably ecumenical, blessing the God of Israel and praising Solomon's wisdom, suggesting a tone of mutual respect between the Israelite king and his Phoenician ally. The passage is primarily logistical and diplomatic in character, serving the larger Chronicler's agenda of legitimizing and glorifying the Temple and its founding.

Jewish Publication Society Bible: 2 Chronicles 2

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