2 Chronicles 8:2

Solomon rebuilt the cities Hiram had given him and settled Israelites there.

Study Bible

Solomon rebuilt
The act of rebuilding signifies restoration and renewal. In the Hebrew context, the word for "rebuilt" (בָּנָה, banah) implies not just physical construction but also establishing something with purpose and intention. Solomon, known for his wisdom and dedication to God, undertakes this task to strengthen his kingdom. This reflects a spiritual principle of restoring what has been lost or neglected, aligning with God's will for renewal in our lives.

the cities
Cities in ancient Israel were not just places of habitation but centers of culture, commerce, and worship. The Hebrew word for "cities" (עָרִים, arim) indicates organized communities with social and religious structures. Solomon's focus on cities underscores the importance of community and the role of leadership in fostering environments where faith and society can flourish together.

Hiram had given him
Hiram, the king of Tyre, was a significant ally of Solomon. The phrase highlights the political and economic alliances that were crucial in the ancient Near East. Hiram's gift of cities to Solomon symbolizes the cooperation between nations and the blessings that can come from godly partnerships. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God using relationships to fulfill His purposes.

and settled Israelites there
The settlement of Israelites in these cities is a strategic move by Solomon to ensure the stability and security of his kingdom. The Hebrew root for "settled" (יָשַׁב, yashav) conveys the idea of dwelling or inhabiting with permanence. This action signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham about the land and His people. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of establishing God's people in places where they can thrive and uphold His commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel, known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem.

2. Hiram
The king of Tyre, a city-state in modern-day Lebanon, who was an ally of both David and Solomon. He provided materials and craftsmen for the building of the Temple.

3. Cities
These were the cities that Hiram had given to Solomon, which Solomon then rebuilt and settled with Israelites. The specific cities are not named in this verse, but they were part of the land exchange between Solomon and Hiram.

4. Israelites
The people of Israel, God's chosen people, whom Solomon settled in the rebuilt cities.

5. Rebuilding
This refers to Solomon's efforts to restore and enhance the cities given by Hiram, indicating a focus on infrastructure and expansion during his reign.

Teaching Points

Wise Stewardship
Solomon's rebuilding of the cities demonstrates wise stewardship of resources and relationships. As Christians, we are called to manage our resources and relationships wisely, seeking to build and restore rather than neglect.

Strategic Alliances
The partnership between Solomon and Hiram shows the importance of forming strategic alliances. In our lives, we should seek partnerships that align with God's purposes and contribute to His kingdom.

Community Building
By settling Israelites in the rebuilt cities, Solomon prioritized community and national identity. We are encouraged to invest in our communities, fostering environments where faith and values can thrive.

Faithful Fulfillment of Promises
Solomon's actions reflect a commitment to fulfilling agreements and promises. As believers, we should strive to be faithful in our commitments, reflecting God's faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Solomon's relationship with Hiram about forming alliances with those outside our immediate faith community?

2. How does Solomon's rebuilding of the cities reflect principles of stewardship that we can apply in our own lives?

3. In what ways can we contribute to building and strengthening our communities, both physically and spiritually?

4. How does the settling of Israelites in these cities relate to God's promises to His people, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to rebuild or restore something in your life. How did your faith influence your approach and outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 9:10-14
This passage provides more context about the exchange between Solomon and Hiram, including the cities given and the materials provided for the Temple.

2 Chronicles 2:3-16
Details the preparations and agreements between Solomon and Hiram for the construction of the Temple, highlighting their cooperative relationship.

Deuteronomy 7:1-6
Discusses the importance of the Israelites settling in the land and the command to drive out other nations, which relates to Solomon settling Israelites in the rebuilt cities.