Day 148: Solomon's Wealth

Today's readings: 1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 9, and Psalm 4.

I. 1 Kings 6 describes the construction of King Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, and parallels 2 Chronicles 3-4.

II. 2 Chronicles 9 recounts the climax and conclusion of Solomon's reign, his extraordinary wealth, international fame, and death. Most interesting to me was the story of the Queen of Sheba, who visited and put his God-given wisdom to the test. After he died, he was buried in the City of David, and his son Rehoboam took over as king of Israel.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

Solomon built the Temple for the glory of the Lord. Now, though, we read that he amasses wealth for himself and his own glory. Here, we can ask whether Solomon is becoming an image of strength rather than actually being strong. We need to ask ourselves whether we are seeking to project an image of wisdom, holiness, or strength - rather than being truly wise, holy, or strong. (p. 58)

III. Psalm 4 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

Combines elements of a lament psalm and a psalm of trust. The Psalmist appeals to the Lord for vindication from false accusations that are made by his adversaries... The Psalmist admonishes enemies to examine themselves and repent. Paul quotes the Greek LXX version of this passage in Eph 4:26. (p. 835)

That's it for today!