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 a hundred and fifty thousand and three thousand and six hundred.”
This verse is part of a passage that describes King Solomon’s preparations for building the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem.
Solomon sought the assistance of the neighboring nations to provide the necessary resources and labor for this massive undertaking.
He sent a message to the king of Tyre, Hiram, requesting skilled workers in wood and stone, as well as materials such as cedar trees from Lebanon.
In 2 Chronicles 2:17, we see that Solomon took a census of the foreigners or “strangers” who were living in the land of Israel at that time.
It mentions that he numbered them according to the census that his father, David, had conducted.
The total count was found to be 153,600 individuals.
This verse highlights an important aspect of Solomon’s leadership.
He recognised the value of foreign workers and their contributions to the kingdom.
These individuals would have brought their skills, craftsmanship, and expertise to assist in the construction of the temple.
Solomon’s wise decision to utilise the talents of foreigners reflects his desire to build the temple in the most magnificent manner possible.
Furthermore, this verse also demonstrates the administrative and organisational capabilities of both Solomon and his father David.
The fact that Solomon used his father’s previous census data suggests that they had efficient systems in place to keep track of their resources and the people residing in the land.
From a spiritual perspective, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s purposes often extend beyond the boundaries of a specific nation or people.
Solomon’s willingness to enlist the aid of foreigners shows that God’s work can involve individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and nations.
