What role did the servants play in acquiring gold and algum wood? Setting the Scene In Solomon’s golden age, Israel partnered with Hiram of Tyre. That alliance opened a trade route to the distant, resource-rich land of Ophir. Key Verse “The servants of Hiram and the servants of Solomon, who brought gold from Ophir, also brought algum wood and precious stones.” (2 Chronicles 9:10) Who Were These Servants? • Commissioned by two kings—Solomon and Hiram • Phoenician mariners “who knew the sea” (1 Kings 9:27) • Israelite laborers who joined them as trusted shipmates What They Actually Did • Crewed a joint fleet that sailed to Ophir (2 Chronicles 8:18) • Acquired 420 talents of gold on one voyage (1 Kings 9:28) • Secured rare alguma/almug wood and precious stones (1 Kings 10:11) • Transported everything safely back to Israel’s port at Ezion-geber and then to Jerusalem Why Their Role Matters • Turned royal plans into tangible resources for the temple and palace • Modeled the power of cooperation—“Two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9) • Fulfilled God’s promise of abundance (Deuteronomy 28:12) Connecting the Dots • 1 Kings 9:26-28 repeats their success in bringing gold to Solomon • 1 Kings 10:11-12 notes the algum wood became railings and musical instruments for worship • Psalm 72:10-15 foreshadows kings bringing gifts of gold to the son of David—these servants played a part in that prophetic stream Takeaways for Today • God often works through faithful, unnamed people to advance His purposes • Shared effort multiplies kingdom impact • Excellence in ordinary tasks—like shipping cargo—honors the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24) |
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