2 Chronicles 2:15 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 2:15 mean?

2 Chronicles 2:15 is a request for the delivery of wheat, barley, oil, and wine that had been promised. The speaker asks that these supplies be sent to his servants as agreed. This verse is about making sure the needed resources for a building project are provided.

King Hiram of Tyre is responding to King Solomon of Israel, who had asked for skilled workers and materials to help build the temple in Jerusalem. Hiram confirms he will provide the workers and asks Solomon to send the food supplies—wheat (חִטָּה, chittah), barley (שְׂעֹרָה, se'orah), oil (שֶׁמֶן, shemen), and wine (יַיִן, yayin)—as part of their agreement. This exchange highlights the practical arrangements and cooperation between the two kings for the temple's construction.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 2:15

• חִטָּה (chittah) — "wheat": This word refers to a staple grain, showing the importance of basic food provisions in ancient agreements.
• שְׂעֹרָה (se'orah) — "barley": Barley was another key grain, often used for both food and drink, underlining the practical needs of the workers.
• שֶׁמֶן (shemen) — "oil": Usually olive oil, this was essential for cooking, lighting, and rituals, emphasizing the value of what Solomon was offering.
• יַיִן (yayin) — "wine": Wine was a common drink and had social and religious significance, showing the completeness of the supplies.

Why 2 Chronicles 2:15 matters

• This verse clarifies the terms of the agreement between Solomon and Hiram, showing that international cooperation in the ancient world often involved both skilled labor and food supplies.
• The mention of specific foods highlights the practical, everyday needs that went into a massive project like building the temple, not just the spiritual or architectural aspects.
• Understanding this exchange helps the reader see the broader context of 2 Chronicles 2, where planning, negotiation, and provision are all necessary for fulfilling a major task.