2 Chronicles 2:17
And Solomon numbered all the strangers that were in the land of Israel, after the numbering wherewith David his father had numbered them; and they were found an hundred and fifty thousand and three thousand and six hundred.
2 Chronicles 2:17 (KJV)
Context
This verse is part of Solomon’s preparation for building the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. He had already asked King Hiram of Tyre for skilled workers and cedar wood (2 Chronicles 2:3-16). Now Solomon counts the foreigners, called “strangers,” who lived in Israel. These were resident aliens, not native Israelites. The census followed the pattern his father David had used earlier.
Meaning
The total was 153,600 foreign men. They were not idolaters, for David and Solomon would not have allowed such people to remain in the land. Many had become worshipers of the God of Israel. The next verse shows their duties: 70,000 carried loads, 80,000 cut stone in the mountains, and 3,600 supervised the work (2 Chronicles 2:18). This census was not like David’s, which counted all Israel. It focused only on the resident aliens who would serve as laborers.
Biblical connections
Solomon’s action shows careful organization and wise use of available people. The temple was meant for all nations, as Solomon later prayed (1 Kings 8:41-43). Including these foreigners in the work reflected that truth. God’s purposes often reach beyond one nation, and He welcomes people from every background into His service.
Application
Solomon recognized the value of foreign workers and their skills. He did not despise them but gave them meaningful roles. Believers today can learn to appreciate and include people from different cultures and nations in God’s work. The church is stronger when every person’s gifts are used for His glory.
Reflection
God sees and values every person, regardless of origin. The census reminds us that He keeps careful account of His people. Just as Solomon planned the temple with precision, God orders His work with purpose. Each believer has a place in building His kingdom.
