Topical Bible: Solomon: Builds his House, the Forest of Lebanon

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Topical Encyclopedia

Solomon, the son of David and the third king of Israel, is renowned for his wisdom, wealth, and extensive building projects. Among his notable constructions is his own royal palace, often referred to as "Solomon's House," and the "House of the Forest of Lebanon." These structures are significant not only for their architectural grandeur but also for their symbolic representation of Solomon's reign and the prosperity of Israel during his time.

Biblical Account

The account of Solomon's building projects is detailed in 1 Kings 7 and 2 Chronicles 8. After completing the Temple of the LORD, Solomon turned his attention to constructing his own palace complex. The House of the Forest of Lebanon is described in 1 Kings 7:2-5:

"He built the House of the Forest of Lebanon a hundred cubits long, fifty cubits wide, and thirty cubits high, with four rows of cedar pillars supporting cedar beams. The house was roofed with cedar above the beams that rested on the pillars—forty-five beams, fifteen per row. There were three rows of high windows facing each other in three tiers. All the doorways had rectangular frames, with the openings facing each other in three tiers."

Architectural Features

The House of the Forest of Lebanon was named for its extensive use of cedar wood, imported from Lebanon, which was highly prized for its quality and durability. The structure's dimensions and the use of cedar pillars and beams suggest a grand and imposing edifice, likely used for official functions and as an armory, as indicated in 1 Kings 10:17: "And he made three hundred small shields of hammered gold, with three minas of gold in each shield, and the king put them in the House of the Forest of Lebanon."

The design of the house, with its rows of windows and cedar construction, evokes the imagery of a forest, providing a sense of majesty and strength. The use of cedar, a symbol of longevity and beauty, reflects the stability and splendor of Solomon's kingdom.

Symbolic Significance

The House of the Forest of Lebanon served not only as a physical structure but also as a symbol of Solomon's wealth, power, and international influence. The alliance with Hiram, king of Tyre, for the procurement of cedar wood, highlights the diplomatic and trade relationships Solomon cultivated, which contributed to the prosperity of Israel.

Furthermore, the house's function as an armory underscores the importance of military strength and preparedness during Solomon's reign. The presence of gold shields within the house signifies the wealth and opulence that characterized his kingdom.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Solomon's building projects, including the House of the Forest of Lebanon, reflect the fulfillment of God's promises to David regarding the establishment of his son's kingdom. They also serve as a reminder of the blessings and responsibilities that come with divine favor. Solomon's achievements in architecture and governance are seen as manifestations of the wisdom granted to him by God, as recorded in 1 Kings 3:12: "Behold, I have done what you asked. I have given you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been anyone like you before, nor will there ever be again."

However, the grandeur of Solomon's constructions also foreshadows the potential for human pride and the eventual decline of his kingdom, as later chapters in his life reveal a turning away from complete devotion to God. The House of the Forest of Lebanon, therefore, stands as both a testament to Solomon's achievements and a cautionary symbol of the need for humility and faithfulness to God's covenant.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 7:2-7
He built also the house of the forest of Lebanon; the length thereof was an hundred cubits, and the breadth thereof fifty cubits, and the height thereof thirty cubits, on four rows of cedar pillars, with cedar beams on the pillars.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Appendices
... Men or Meni (Menes), king of This, who builds Memphis and ... Accession of David
cir.1000 Accession of Solomon cir.960 ... his mouth, nor on the soles of his feet, nor ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/appendices.htm

The Pilgrim's Progress
... He also would have thee know, that He inviteth thee to come into His presence, to
His table, and that He will feed thee with the fat of His house, and with the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm