2 Chronicles 3:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Chronicles 3:1
1 Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD at Jerusalem in mount Moriah, where the LORD appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.
Chapter Context
2 Chronicles 3 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, redemption, creation. Written during the post-exilic reflection on the monarchy (c. 430-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written to remind returning exiles of their temple-centered worship and Davidic heritage.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-17: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Chronicles and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Chronicles 3:1
1 Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD at Jerusalem in mount Moriah, where the LORD appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.
Analysis
The temple's location is theologically significant: 'Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD at Jerusalem in mount Moriah, where the LORD appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.' Identifying this as Mount Moriah connects to Abraham offering Isaac (Genesis 22:2), suggesting the temple site is where God provided the ram in Isaac's place. The mention of David's theophany and the threshingfloor where plague stopped (1 Chronicles 21:18-28) layers meaning - this is the place of sacrifice, divine appearance, and mercy. Ultimately, this points to Christ sacrificed in Jerusalem, the true temple where God's glory dwells.
Historical Context
Beginning construction in Solomon's fourth year (c. 966 BCE) on the threshingfloor David purchased fulfilled his vision. The Moriah identification (unique to Chronicles) theologically connects the temple to Abrahamic covenant and substitutionary sacrifice.
Reflection
- How does the temple built on the site of sacrifice point you to Christ's sacrifice and the true temple?
- What significance does location have in your understanding of where and how God meets His people today?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Genesis 22:14, 1 Chronicles 21:18, 22:1
- Parallel theme: Genesis 22:2