Lexical Summary algummim: Almug trees, Algum trees Original Word: אַלְגּוּמִּים Strong's Exhaustive Concordance algum trees By transposition for 'almuggiym; sticks of algum wood -- algum (trees). see HEBREW 'almuggiym NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originof foreign origin Definition perhaps a sandalwood tree NASB Translation algum (2), algum trees (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs אֲלְגּוּמִים noun [masculine] plural a tree (foreign & obscure) always with עֲצֵי, perhaps sandal-wood: — 2 Chron 2:7 ׳עֲצֵי אֲרָזִים בְּרוֺשִׁים וְא (from Lebanon); ׳עֲצֵי אַ2Chronicles 9:10 ("" אֶבֶן יְקָרָה; both from Ophir); compare 2 Chronicles 9:11, see following Topical Lexicon OverviewThe term אַלְגּוּמִּים refers to a prized timber imported for the building projects of King Solomon. It occurs only three times in the Old Testament, all within the Chronicler’s record of Solomon’s correspondence with Hiram and the subsequent delivery of unusual materials from Ophir (2 Chronicles 2:8; 9:10–11). The wood’s limited appearance highlights its special value and the unique moment in Israel’s history when the monarchy’s prosperity was devoted to the worship of the Lord. Scriptural Occurrences • 2 Chronicles 2:8 – Solomon requests “cedar, cypress, and algum logs from Lebanon” for “the House I am building”. Historical Background and Trade The Chronicler places the procurement of algummim in the larger context of international commerce. Ophir—likely located on the eastern African coast or in southern Arabia—was famous for its gold. By including algummim among the treasures from Ophir, Scripture underscores both the reach of Solomon’s trade alliances and the exceptional character of the wood. Hiram’s Phoenician sailors, renowned for their maritime expertise, served as indispensable partners in transporting this cargo, illustrating how the Lord used Gentile skill to furnish His house in Jerusalem. Physical Characteristics and Identification While scholars debate its exact species—suggestions range from red sandalwood to a form of juniper—the text dwells not on botany but on worth and rarity. The Chronicler’s comment that “such algum wood had never been seen before in the land of Judah” (2 Chronicles 9:11) testifies to its unmatched quality. Whether prized for color, density, aromatic quality, or durability, algummim was considered suitable for the most significant structures and instruments in Israel’s life of worship. Role in the Temple and Royal Buildings The timber was employed in three primary ways: 1. Structural Elements – “Steps for the house of the LORD” (2 Chronicles 9:11) likely refers to the ascent to the temple precincts, emphasizing a dignified approach to worship. Together these uses illustrate the integration of worship, governance, and artistry under Solomon. The best resources of the world were dedicated first to God’s house, then to the house of the king, mirroring the covenantal priority of divine glory over human authority. Symbolism and Theological Observations 1. Rarity Devoted to Worship – Just as the finest gold and stones were set apart for holy purposes, so this rare wood was offered to adorn the temple. The precedents of Abel’s “firstborn” offering (Genesis 4:4) and later instructions about unblemished sacrifices (Leviticus 22:19–20) find an architectural parallel in algummim. Lessons for Ministry Today • Excellence in Worship – Algummim encourages believers to bring their highest quality—whether resources, talents, or time—to the service of God. Related Passages and Themes 1 Kings 10:11–12 parallels the Chronicler’s account, noting that “the fleet of Hiram” brought “almug wood.” Though the spelling differs, the continuity affirms the same event. 1 Kings also states the wood was used for “supports for the temple of the LORD and for the royal palace, and harps and lyres for the singers,” cementing the Chronicler’s testimony. Together, these passages weave algummim into the broader narrative of Solomon’s reign, where earthly splendor points beyond itself to the glory of the covenant God. Forms and Transliterations אַלְגּוּמִּ֖ים אלגומים הָֽאַלְגּוּמִּ֜ים האלגומים וְאַלְגּוּמִּים֮ ואלגומים ’al·gūm·mîm ’algūmmîm algumMim hā’algūmmîm hā·’al·gūm·mîm haalgumMim vealgumMim wə’algūmmîm wə·’al·gūm·mîmLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance 2 Chronicles 2:8 HEB: אֲרָזִ֜ים בְּרוֹשִׁ֣ים וְאַלְגּוּמִּים֮ מֵֽהַלְּבָנוֹן֒ כִּ֚י NAS: cypress and algum timber KJV: fir trees, and algum trees, out of Lebanon: INT: cedar cypress and algum Lebanon for 2 Chronicles 9:10 2 Chronicles 9:11 3 Occurrences |
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