2 Chronicles 9:10 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 9:10 mean?

2 Chronicles 9:10 reports that the servants of Huram and Solomon, who had brought gold from Ophir, also brought algum trees and precious stones. This verse highlights the valuable materials brought to King Solomon’s kingdom through his alliance with King Huram of Tyre.

The context is the account of Solomon’s wealth and the building projects during his reign. Huram was a neighboring king who supplied materials and skilled workers for Solomon’s temple and palace. The verse shows that the partnership went beyond gold, including rare wood (algum) and valuable stones, which were important for construction and decoration in Solomon’s projects.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 9:10

• אוֹפִיר (Ophir, transliterated "Ophir"): This is a place name, often associated with a distant region famous for its gold. The mention of Ophir emphasizes the exotic and high-value nature of the materials.
• אַלְגּוּמִּים (algummim, transliterated "algum"): This word refers to a rare type of wood, possibly sandalwood or a similar valuable timber. Its inclusion shows the diversity and richness of resources brought to Solomon.
• עֵץ (etz, transliterated "etz"): This is the general word for "tree" or "wood." Its use here clarifies that the algum refers specifically to wood, not another kind of product.
• אֶבֶן (even, transliterated "even"): This means "stone." The verse calls these stones "precious," highlighting their value for royal building and decoration.

Why 2 Chronicles 9:10 matters

• This verse clarifies that Solomon’s wealth was not limited to gold but included other rare and valuable resources, showing the extent of his prosperity and international connections.
• The mention of both Huram’s and Solomon’s servants working together highlights the cooperation between Israel and Tyre, which was crucial for Solomon’s building achievements.
• By listing specific materials, the verse connects to the broader narrative about the splendor of Solomon’s reign and the resources used in constructing the temple and his palace.