Send me now therefore a man cunning to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron, and in purple, and crimson, and blue, and that can skill to grave with the cunning men that are with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, whom David my father did provide.
2 CHRONICLES 2:7KJVWhat does 2 Chronicles 2:7 mean?
2 Chronicles 2:7 records Solomon asking for a skilled craftsman who can work with precious metals, colored fabrics, and engraving, to help build the temple in Jerusalem. Solomon requests that this expert be sent to work alongside the skilled workers already in Judah and Jerusalem, whom his father David had prepared.
In this verse, Solomon is writing to the king of Tyre, asking for help in finding someone highly skilled in various crafts needed for the temple’s construction. The verse highlights the need for exceptional craftsmanship and cooperation between nations for such an important project, showing the scale and care involved in building the temple.
The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 2:7
- The word "cunning" (חָכָם, ḥākām) means someone wise or skillful, not just clever but deeply knowledgeable in their craft. Solomon is asking for a true master, not just an ordinary worker.
- The word "work" (עָשָׂה, ʿāsāh) refers to doing or making, emphasizing practical skill and the ability to produce fine work with materials like gold, silver, brass, and iron.
- The word "skill" (יָדַע, yādaʿ) means to know or have expertise, especially in the sense of being able to do something well. Solomon wants someone who truly understands the art of engraving and working with these materials.
- The word "grave" (פָּתַח, pāthaḥ / פָּסַל, pāsal) refers to engraving or carving, highlighting the importance of detailed, artistic work in the temple’s construction.
Why 2 Chronicles 2:7 matters
- This verse shows that Solomon valued not just materials but also the highest level of skill and artistry in building the temple, reflecting the importance and sacredness of the project.
- The request for a craftsman from another nation (Tyre) highlights the international cooperation involved in building the temple and the recognition of expertise beyond Israel.
- The mention of David’s earlier preparations connects Solomon’s work to his father’s legacy, showing continuity and careful planning in the temple’s construction.