2 chronicles 1:17 - They brought up and brought out of Egypt a chariot for six hundred pieces of silver, and a horse for one hundred fifty. They also exported them to the Hittite kings and the Syrian kings.

Generated Verse: 2 chronicles 1:17

What does "2 chronicles 1:17" mean?


This verse from 2 Chronicles 1:17 describes Solomon's lucrative trade in horses and chariots. Let's break it down:

"They brought up and brought out of Egypt a chariot for six hundred pieces of silver, and a horse for one hundred fifty." This indicates that Solomon's traders were importing chariots and horses from Egypt, which was renowned for its horsemanship and chariot construction. The prices are given in "pieces of silver" which could have been a standard weight or coin. A chariot cost 600 pieces of silver, while a horse cost 150. This suggests a significant price difference, reflecting the greater complexity and value of a chariot (which included the chariot itself, harnesses, and probably some training for the horses).

"They also exported them to the Hittite kings and the Syrian kings." This is the key to understanding the verse's purpose. After importing these war machines from Egypt, Solomon's traders didn't keep them all. They became re-exporters, selling them to other kingdoms in the region, specifically the Hittites and the Syrians. This highlights that Solomon's kingdom, under his wise and prosperous rule, became a major trade hub. It demonstrates that he not only controlled valuable resources within his territory but also facilitated trade between other nations, profiting from the import and export of strategic military assets.

In summary, the verse describes Solomon's successful business in importing chariots and horses from Egypt and then reselling them to the Hittites and Syrians, showcasing the economic strength and strategic importance of his kingdom. It demonstrates how Solomon's kingdom profited by being a middleman in the trade of military technology between powerful nations. It shows that he was not only a king, but also a shrewd businessman who played a vital role in the economy and politics of the ancient Near East.

What categories does "2 chronicles 1:17" have?