MPV Commentary
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for 1 Chronicles 29
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for 1 Chronicles 29
David blessed the Lord with a beautiful thanksgiving prayer, overflowing with gratitude and delight at seeing the widespread interest in his life's project. His piety is evident in ascribing all worldly wealth and greatness to God as the giver, tracing the readiness of the people to contribute to the influence of His grace, praying for its continuance, and commending the young king and his kingdom to God's care.
The contributions made towards the temple's construction are impressive. The historian lists the treasure laid up and contributions already made. Focusing on gold and silver, we can estimate their value: one talent of gold is worth approximately £5475, making it about 73s per ounce; one talent of silver is worth around £342 3s 9d, or 4s 4½d per ounce. The total contributions amount to:
* Gold: £547,500,000
* Silver: £342,187,500
David contributed from his private resources:
* Gold: £16,425,000
* Silver: £2,395,312
The assembled rulers also contributed:
* Gold: £28,000,000
* Silver: £3,421,875
This grand total is approximately £939,929,687.
However, this amount exceeds the bounds of probability, and most scholars believe that either there's a corruption in the text or the historian used a different talent measurement system. This would bring the account more in line with Josephus' statements and within credibility.
The entire congregation worshipped the Lord, while the king received civil homage. The people continued their celebration by sacrificing and feasting on the remainder of the sacrifices, still under the influence of the occasion.
Solomon was made king for a second time, following his initial hasty appointment due to Adonijah's conspiracy. Zadok was appointed high priest, meeting with popular approval, as he replaced Abiathar, one of Adonijah's accomplices.
As king of Israel, Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord, serving as His vicegerent. The people submitted themselves to him by placing their hands under his extended hand and kissing it, a custom still practiced in the East.