And the king made of the algum trees terraces to the house of the LORD, and to the king's palace, and harps and psalteries for singers: and there were none such seen before in the land of Judah.
2 CHRONICLES 9:11KJVWhat does 2 Chronicles 9:11 mean?
2 Chronicles 9:11 describes how King Solomon used algum trees to build terraces for the temple of the LORD and his own palace, as well as to make musical instruments for the singers. The verse highlights that such craftsmanship and materials had never been seen before in Judah.
This verse is part of the account of Solomon’s reign, specifically after he received gifts from the Queen of Sheba. The algum wood was a rare and valuable material brought from distant lands, and its use for both construction and music shows the wealth and splendor of Solomon’s kingdom. The mention of the singers’ instruments also points to the importance of worship and music in temple life.
The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 9:11
- אַלְגּוּמִּים (algummim, transliterated “algum”): This word refers to a type of valuable wood, possibly sandalwood or a similar rare tree. Its exact identification is uncertain, but its rarity and value are clear from the context.
- מַעֲלוֹת (ma‘alot, transliterated “terraces”): This word can mean steps, stairways, or terraces. Here, it likely refers to architectural features or platforms, showing the grandeur of the temple and palace.
- כִּנּוֹרוֹת (kinnorot, transliterated “harps”) and נְבָלִים (nevalim, transliterated “psalteries”): These are musical instruments used by temple singers. Their mention emphasizes the role of music in worship and the high quality of materials used.
Why 2 Chronicles 9:11 matters
- This verse shows the extraordinary resources and artistry that went into building and furnishing both the temple and the royal palace, setting Solomon’s reign apart in Israel’s history.
- The mention of musical instruments made from the same precious wood as the temple’s terraces highlights the importance of worship and the arts in the spiritual life of Judah.
- By stating that nothing like this had been seen before in Judah, the verse underscores the uniqueness and prosperity of Solomon’s era, connecting to the broader theme of his wisdom and the blessings on his kingdom.