Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, silver holds significant value both materially and symbolically. One of the notable instances of its use is in the preparation for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, a task that King David initiated and his son Solomon completed. This entry explores the role of silver in this monumental project, as described in the Scriptures.Biblical Context The desire to build a house for the Lord was deeply rooted in King David's heart. Although God did not permit David to construct the Temple due to his history as a warrior, He did allow David to make extensive preparations for its construction. This included gathering materials and resources, among which silver was a prominent component. Scriptural References 1 Chronicles 29 provides a detailed account of the contributions made by David and the Israelites for the Temple. David himself set an example by donating from his personal treasures. In 1 Chronicles 29:3-5 , David declares, "Moreover, because of my delight in the house of my God, I now give my personal treasures of gold and silver for the house of my God, in addition to all that I have provided for this holy temple: 3,000 talents of gold (the gold of Ophir) and 7,000 talents of refined silver, to overlay the walls of the buildings, the gold for the gold work and the silver for the silver work, and for all the work to be done by the craftsmen." Following David's example, the leaders of the families, the officers of the tribes of Israel, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and the officials in charge of the king's work also gave willingly. 1 Chronicles 29:6-7 records, "Then the leaders of the families, the officers of the tribes of Israel, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and the officials in charge of the king’s work gave willingly. They gave toward the work on the house of God 5,000 talents and 10,000 darics of gold, 10,000 talents of silver, 18,000 talents of bronze, and 100,000 talents of iron." Significance of Silver Silver, in the biblical context, often symbolizes purity, redemption, and value. Its use in the Temple construction underscores the dedication and reverence the Israelites had for the dwelling place of God. The substantial amount of silver collected reflects the collective commitment of the nation to honor God with their wealth and resources. The silver was used for various purposes in the Temple, including overlaying the walls and crafting sacred objects. This not only enhanced the beauty and splendor of the Temple but also served as a tangible expression of the people's devotion and worship. Theological Implications The giving of silver by David and his subjects illustrates several key theological themes. Firstly, it highlights the principle of stewardship, where the resources provided by God are returned to Him in service and worship. Secondly, it demonstrates the importance of communal participation in the work of God, as the entire nation contributed to the building of the Temple. Lastly, it reflects the heart of worship, where offerings are made willingly and joyfully, as seen in 1 Chronicles 29:9 : "The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly." In summary, the silver given by David and his subjects for the Temple construction is a testament to their faith, devotion, and commitment to honoring God. It serves as a powerful example of sacrificial giving and collective worship in the history of Israel. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Chronicles 28:14He gave of gold by weight for things of gold, for all instruments of all manner of service; silver also for all instruments of silver by weight, for all instruments of every kind of service: Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Chronicles 29:2,6-9 Library The Lord Coming to his Temple Concerning the Wife of Solomon; Concerning his Wisdom and Riches ... The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem The Priest of the World and King of Men Book 8 Footnotes Book 5 Footnotes Solomon's Temple Spiritualized How after the Death of Cambyses and the Slaughter of the Magi but ... And ii. Temporal Advantages. Resources What kind of divination did Joseph do in Genesis 44:5, 15? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Achan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did God judge the sin of Achan so severely? | GotQuestions.org Silver: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Silver for Ornamentation of, and in the Manufacture of, the Utensils for the Tabernacle Silver of Saints Purified by Affliction Silver of the Medo-Persian Kingdom Silver of the Tongue of the Just Silver of the Words of the Lord Silver used As Money from the Earliest Times Silver: (Dross of) of the Wicked Silver: (Labour of Seeking For) of Diligence Required For Silver: (Reprobate) the Wicked Silver: Baskets (Rv), or Filigree (Margin, RV) Silver: Generally Found in an Impure State Silver: Given by David and his Subjects for Making the Temple Silver: Given by the Israelite for Making the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Beds or Couches Silver: Made Into: Candlesticks Silver: Made Into: Ornaments and Hooks for the Pillars of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Ornaments for the Person Silver: Made Into: Sockets for the Boards of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Thin Plates Silver: Made Into: Wires (Alluded To) Silver: Often Given As Presents Silver: Purified, Called: Choice Silver Silver: Purified, Called: Refined Silver Silver: Taken in War often Consecrated to God Silver: Taken in War Purified by Fire Silver: Tarshish Carried on Extensive Commerce In Silver: The Patriarchs Rich In Silver: The Working In, a Trade Silver: Veins of, Found in the Earth Silver: Very Abundant in the Reign of Solomon Silver: Wisdom to be Esteemed More Than Related Terms |
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