Topical Bible: Imports of Jerusalem: Horses, Chariots, and Linen

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In the ancient biblical context, Jerusalem, as the capital of the united monarchy under King Solomon, became a significant hub for trade and commerce. The city’s imports included horses, chariots, and fine linen, which played crucial roles in its economic and military strength.

Horses and Chariots

The importation of horses and chariots into Jerusalem is prominently mentioned during the reign of King Solomon. Horses were a symbol of military power and prestige, and their acquisition was a strategic move to enhance the kingdom's defense capabilities. Solomon's importation of horses and chariots is documented in 1 Kings 10:28-29 : "Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue. A chariot could be imported from Egypt for six hundred shekels of silver, and a horse for a hundred and fifty. Likewise, they exported them to all the kings of the Hittites and to the kings of Aram."

This passage highlights the extensive trade network Solomon established, particularly with Egypt, a major supplier of horses. The acquisition of chariots, often paired with horses, was essential for the military, providing a tactical advantage in warfare. The use of chariots is further emphasized in 1 Kings 4:26 , which states, "Solomon had four thousand stalls for his chariot horses and twelve thousand horses."

Linen

Fine linen was another significant import into Jerusalem, valued for its quality and used in both religious and royal settings. Linen was often associated with wealth, purity, and divine service. The importation of linen is mentioned in the context of Solomon's trade activities. In 2 Chronicles 9:14 , it is noted that "besides what was brought by the merchants and traders, all the Arabian kings and governors of the land also brought gold and silver to Solomon."

While this verse does not explicitly mention linen, the broader context of Solomon's wealth and trade implies the inclusion of luxury items such as fine linen. Linen was used in the construction of the Temple, as described in 2 Chronicles 2:14 , where Huram-Abi, a skilled craftsman, is noted for his ability to work with "purple, blue, and crimson yarn and fine linen."

The importation of linen also had religious significance, as it was used in the garments of the priests and in the tabernacle. Exodus 39:27-29 describes the priestly garments: "For Aaron and his sons, they made tunics of fine linen—the work of a weaver—along with the turban of fine linen, the ornate headbands and undergarments of finely spun linen, and the sash of finely spun linen, embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, just as the LORD had commanded Moses."

In summary, the imports of horses, chariots, and linen into Jerusalem under Solomon's reign reflect the city's strategic military enhancements and its status as a center of wealth and religious significance. These imports underscore the interconnectedness of trade, politics, and religion in the ancient Near East.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 10:28,29
And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 1:16
And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Sixth vision "On Earth"
... Some say that "Great Babylon" means "Rome"; others hold that it means "Jerusalem";
while others, like ourselves, believe what is written. ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the sixth vision on earth.htm