Topical Bible: Thankfulness: To God of Hiram

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Topical Encyclopedia

Hiram, the king of Tyre, is a notable figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of his interactions with King Solomon. His expressions of thankfulness to God are significant, as they highlight the recognition of God's sovereignty and blessings even among those outside the covenant community of Israel.

Biblical Context

Hiram's relationship with Israel is primarily documented in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. He was a contemporary of both King David and King Solomon, and his reign is marked by a strong alliance with the Israelite kingdom. This alliance is most prominently displayed in his cooperation with Solomon in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Expression of Thankfulness

Hiram's thankfulness to God is explicitly mentioned in 2 Chronicles 2:11-12. Upon receiving Solomon's request for materials and skilled laborers to build the Temple, Hiram responds with a letter that acknowledges the greatness of the God of Israel:

"Then Hiram king of Tyre replied in a letter that he sent to Solomon: 'Because the LORD loves His people, He has set you over them as king.' And Hiram added: 'Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who made heaven and earth! He has given King David a wise son, endowed with insight and understanding, who will build a house for the LORD and a royal palace for himself.'" (2 Chronicles 2:11-12)

In this passage, Hiram expresses gratitude and reverence for the God of Israel, recognizing His role in establishing Solomon as king and in the grand project of building the Temple. Hiram's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and his blessing upon Israel is a testament to the influence of God's work beyond the borders of Israel.

Theological Significance

Hiram's thankfulness to God is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates the universal recognition of God's power and authority. Despite being a Gentile king, Hiram acknowledges the God of Israel as the Creator of heaven and earth, which underscores the biblical theme of God's dominion over all nations.

Secondly, Hiram's gratitude reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to David and Solomon. The successful collaboration between Hiram and Solomon in the Temple's construction is a manifestation of God's faithfulness to His covenant with David, as seen in 1 Kings 5:7: "When Hiram heard Solomon’s words, he rejoiced greatly and said, 'Blessed be the LORD today! He has given David a wise son to rule over this great people.'"

Lastly, Hiram's thankfulness serves as a model for recognizing and responding to God's blessings. His acknowledgment of God's hand in the affairs of nations and individuals encourages believers to cultivate a heart of gratitude, recognizing God's providence and grace in their own lives.

Conclusion

Hiram's expressions of thankfulness to God, as recorded in the biblical narrative, provide a profound example of recognizing divine sovereignty and blessing. His acknowledgment of the God of Israel, despite being a Gentile king, highlights the universal reach of God's authority and the importance of gratitude in response to His work in the world.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 2:12
Huram said moreover, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, that made heaven and earth, who has given to David the king a wise son, endued with prudence and understanding, that might build an house for the LORD, and an house for his kingdom.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Great Preparations for a Great Work
... we must do, that the embassy from Hiram mentioned in ... predecessors; but Solomon was
moved by thankfulness and by ... will, and still more, to God's destination of ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/great preparations for a great.htm

Centenary Commemoration
... the election of Bishop Seabury that God did "so ... Seymour, Litchfield; James Stoddard,
Watertown; Hiram Stone, Bantam ... is a service of deepest thankfulness and of ...
/.../the sermons and addresses at the seabury centenary/centenary commemoration.htm

Sennacherib (705-681 BC )
... would be Hiram II., according to others, Hiram I. ... of Jahveh, and to make it a subject
of thankfulness. ... a parting message to Hezekiah: "Let not thy God in whom ...
/.../chapter isennacherib 705-681 b c.htm