2 Chronicles 9:13

The weight of gold that came to Solomon each year was 666 talents,

Study Bible

The weight of gold that came to Solomon each year
This phrase highlights the immense wealth and prosperity of King Solomon's reign. Solomon's annual income of gold signifies the peak of Israel's economic power and influence during his rule. The accumulation of wealth was a fulfillment of God's promise to Solomon, as seen in 1 Kings 3:13, where God grants him riches and honor. This wealth also reflects the extensive trade networks and alliances Solomon established, particularly with nations like Tyre and Sheba, as described in 1 Kings 10 and 2 Chronicles 9.

was 666 talents,
The specific number, 666 talents, is significant and has sparked much discussion. A talent was a large unit of weight, approximately 75 pounds or 34 kilograms, making 666 talents an enormous amount of gold. This figure underscores Solomon's unparalleled wealth but also serves as a point of caution. The number 666 is later associated with imperfection and human fallibility in Revelation 13:18, where it is the number of the beast. This connection may suggest a subtle warning about the potential for wealth and power to lead to spiritual decline, as seen in Solomon's later years when he turned away from God (1 Kings 11:4). Solomon's wealth, while a blessing, also foreshadows the dangers of materialism and idolatry, themes that resonate throughout Scripture.

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 First Temple in Jerusalem, Solomon's reign is often seen as a high point in Israel's history.

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel during Solomon's reign, Jerusalem was the political and spiritual center of the nation. It housed the Temple, which Solomon built as a place for the worship of Yahweh.

3. Gold
A precious metal that symbolized wealth and prosperity. In the context of Solomon's reign, gold was a significant indicator of the kingdom's economic strength and Solomon's personal wealth.

4. 666 talents
A measure of weight used in ancient times. The number 666 here represents the annual amount of gold that came to Solomon, highlighting the immense wealth he accumulated.

5. Trade and Tribute
The wealth mentioned in this verse was likely accumulated through trade agreements and tributes from other nations, reflecting Solomon's extensive influence and the prosperity of his kingdom.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Wealth
While wealth itself is not inherently evil, the pursuit and accumulation of wealth can lead to spiritual complacency and a departure from reliance on God. Solomon's wealth, as described in this verse, serves as a cautionary tale.

God's Provision and Blessing
Solomon's wealth was a result of God's blessing and provision. It is important to recognize that all we have comes from God and should be used for His glory.

Wisdom Over Wealth
Solomon is known for his wisdom, which he initially valued over wealth. Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom and understanding from God above material riches.

Stewardship
The resources and wealth we have should be managed wisely and used to further God's kingdom. Solomon's wealth could have been an opportunity for greater service and worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's accumulation of wealth align or conflict with the warnings given to kings in Deuteronomy 17:17?

2. In what ways can the pursuit of wealth distract us from our relationship with God, and how can we guard against this in our own lives?

3. How can we apply the principle of stewardship to the resources God has entrusted to us, as seen in the example of Solomon's wealth?

4. What lessons can we learn from Solomon's life about the balance between seeking wisdom and accumulating wealth?

5. How does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:19-21 challenge our perspective on wealth and material possessions in light of Solomon's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 10:14
This verse parallels 2 Chronicles 9:13, providing a similar account of Solomon's wealth and the annual gold he received.

Deuteronomy 17:17
This passage warns Israelite kings against accumulating excessive wealth, horses, and wives, which can lead them away from God. Solomon's wealth, as described in 2 Chronicles 9:13, can be seen in light of this warning.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, which can be contrasted with Solomon's accumulation of earthly wealth.