2 Chronicles 4:18

Authorized King James Version

Thus Solomon made all these vessels in great abundance: for the weight of the brass could not be found out.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּ֧עַשׂ

H6213

made

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

שְׁלֹמֹ֛ה

H8010

Thus Solomon

shelomah, david's successor

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הַכֵּלִ֥ים

H3627

all these vessels

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

הָאֵ֖לֶּה

H428

these or those

לָרֹ֣ב

H7230

abundance

abundance (in any respect)

מְאֹ֑ד

H3966

in great

properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

כִּ֛י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

נֶחְקַ֖ר

H2713

could not be found out

properly, to penetrate; hence, to examine intimately

#11

מִשְׁקַ֥ל

H4948

for the weight

weight (numerically estimated); hence, weighing (the act)

#12

הַנְּחֹֽשֶׁת׃

H5178

of the brass

copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?