King James Version

What Does 2 Chronicles 8:3 Mean?

2 Chronicles 8:3 in the King James Version says “And Solomon went to Hamathzobah, and prevailed against it.” — study this verse from 2 Chronicles chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Solomon went to Hamathzobah, and prevailed against it.”

2 Chronicles 8:3 · KJV

Context

1

And it came to pass at the end of twenty years, wherein Solomon had built the house of the LORD, and his own house,

2

That the cities which Huram had restored to Solomon, Solomon built them, and caused the children of Israel to dwell there.

3

And Solomon went to Hamathzobah, and prevailed against it.

4

And he built Tadmor in the wilderness, and all the store cities, which he built in Hamath.

5

Also he built Bethhoron the upper, and Bethhoron the nether, fenced cities, with walls, gates, and bars;

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Solomon went to Hamath-zobah, and prevailed against it.

This verse contributes to the narrative of Solomon's reign, specifically focusing on Consolidating the kingdom and establishing worship. The Chronicler presents Solomon's faithfulness in temple building and worship as paradigmatic for post-exilic Israel. Unlike the Kings account which includes Solomon's failures, Chronicles emphasizes his positive example during his faithful years.

Theologically, the passage demonstrates that wholehearted seeking of God results in His manifest blessing and presence. The temple construction and dedication represent the climax of God's dwelling with Israel, foreshadowing the incarnation when God would dwell among humanity in Christ. The elaborate preparations and careful adherence to divine pattern emphasize that worship must occur on God's terms.

Cross-references to the tabernacle (Exodus 25-40), Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7, 1 Chronicles 17), and Messianic prophecies illuminate how Solomon's temple points toward Christ as the true meeting place between God and humanity. The material glory of Solomon's kingdom anticipates the greater glory of the Messianic age.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The reign of Solomon (970-930 BCE) represents Israel's golden age of peace and prosperity. The temple construction began in Solomon's fourth year (966 BCE), exactly 480 years after the Exodus according to 1 Kings 6:1. The Chronicler writes from a post-exilic perspective (450-400 BCE), emphasizing themes relevant to the restored community: temple worship, Levitical service, and covenant faithfulness.

Archaeological evidence confirms Solomon's extensive building projects and international trade relationships. The temple's design incorporated Phoenician architectural elements, evidenced by parallel structures discovered in Syria and Lebanon. Solomon's alliance with Hiram of Tyre provided both materials (Lebanese cedar) and craftsmen for the construction.

The post-exilic audience, having returned from Babylonian captivity to rebuild the temple, needed encouragement that God's presence and blessing could be restored through faithful worship. The Chronicler presents Solomon's reign as paradigmatic—when leaders and people seek God wholeheartedly, He dwells among them and prospers them.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen understanding of God's presence as the source of true blessing and success?
  2. What does this passage teach about the importance of following God's prescribed patterns in worship and service?
  3. How does Solomon's example in Solomon's Other Building Projects point forward to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ1 of 6
H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

שְׁלֹמֹה֙2 of 6

“And Solomon”

H8010

shelomah, david's successor

חֲמָ֣ת3 of 6
H0
צוֹבָ֔ה4 of 6

“to Hamathzobah”

H2578

chamath-tsobah

וַיֶּֽחֱזַ֖ק5 of 6

“and prevailed”

H2388

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

עָלֶֽיהָ׃6 of 6
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Chronicles 8:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Chronicles 8:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 18:32 Samuel 8:3Numbers 34:81 Kings 11:23-25Numbers 13:21

Places in This Verse

Hamath-zobahSettlement · Modern: Hama · 35.14°N, 36.75°E2 verses across 2 books
View all places in 2 Chronicles 8 →

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