MPV Commentary

3-6. Solomon sent a message to Huram, likely written correspondence (2Ch 2:11; also see on 1Ki 5:8).

As you dealt with my father David, I'm asking for your help in building the temple. This would seem to confirm whether Huram was indeed a friend of David's (see on 1Ki 5:1-6). Solomon based his request for Tyrian aid on two reasons: 1) The temple must be a solid and permanent structure because worship will continue forever, requiring durable materials. 2) It should be a magnificent building dedicated to the God who is greater than all gods; however, it's not intended as a dwelling place for Him but rather a temple where His people can offer sacrifices in His honor.

7. Send me now a skilled craftsman who can oversee the work. Solomon didn't ask for masons or carpenters, as those obtained by David (1Ch 14:1) were likely still in Jerusalem and had trained others. Instead, he needed a master of works, someone like Bezaleel (Ex 35:31), capable of directing every department due to the limited division of labor at that time. The craftsman should be skilled in making the temple's furniture, including ironwork, which was now readily available through trade with coastal regions. He should also be able to create colorful cloths for curtains using renowned Tyrian techniques.

8. Send me cedar trees, cypress trees, and algum or almug trees, all valued for their rarity and durability. Although the algum tree wasn't found on Lebanon, Huram could procure it through his connections (see on 1Ki 10:11).

10. I will provide your servants with food and drink for their work on Lebanon. This includes beaten wheat, a common meal among laborers in the East (compare 1Ki 5:11). The yearly supplies of wine and oil mentioned earlier were intended for Huram's court as payment for the cedars sent to him; these articles are meant for the workers on Lebanon.