2 Chronicles 2:16

And wee will cut wood out of Lebanon, as much as thou shalt need, and wee will bring it to thee in flotes by sea to Ioppa, and thou shalt carie it vp to Ierusalem. 2 Chronicles 2:16 (KJV)

This verse belongs to the larger narrative in which King Solomon is preparing to build the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. Solomon had sent a message to Hiram, king of Tyre, asking for skilled workers and the necessary materials for the sacred construction. The passage records Hiram’s response, promising to supply the timber that Solomon required.

Lebanon was renowned for its high‑quality cedar trees. Cedar wood was prized for its durability, pleasant fragrance, and resistance to decay, making it especially suitable for a building intended to house the presence of God. Solomon’s request therefore focused on obtaining as much of this prized timber as the project demanded.

According to the verse, the timber would be cut in Lebanon and then shipped by sea on rafts or “floats” to the port city of Joppa. Joppa, situated on the Mediterranean coast of what is now Israel, served as a major maritime hub in the ancient world. From Joppa the wood would be carried inland, up the hill to Jerusalem, where the temple site lay at a higher elevation.

The logistics described in the verse illustrate Solomon’s meticulous planning and organization in securing the resources needed for the temple’s construction. They also highlight the cooperative relationship between Solomon and Hiram, showing how the king of Tyre contributed materially to the grand project.

Beyond the practical details, the passage carries symbolic weight. The temple represented the dwelling place of God among His people and the focal point of worship. Using the finest cedar underscored the principle of offering the best to God. Moreover, the effort involved in moving the timber by sea and then overland reflects the care and dedication required to honor God through the building of His house.