Definition: And the king made silver and gold at Jerusalem [as plenteous] as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that [are] in the vale for abundance.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 1:15. It's a really interesting and symbolic description of how God established the foundation of Jerusalem. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is saying that he started with a very rich and abundant supply of precious metals and wood – like gold and silver – to build the city of Jerusalem. Let's unpack it further: “And the king made silver and gold at Jerusalem…” - This refers to King David establishing the capital city in Jerusalem. “…as plenteous” - This means "abundant" or "plentiful." It suggests a huge amount of material. "...as stones..." – David was using these materials to create foundations and structures for the city. Think of it like building with incredibly heavy, durable materials. "...and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that [are] in the vale for abundance." - This is where it gets a bit more symbolic. The "valle" refers to the area around Jerusalem. Cedar trees are known for their strength and longevity. David was using these trees to create a strong, enduring foundation for the city, just like God uses his gifts to build something lasting and secure. The Overall Meaning: This verse is a powerful image of God’s provision for his people. It suggests that He started with a generous supply of resources – wealth and beauty – to establish a place of worship and a thriving community. It’s about recognizing that God provides more than enough for His chosen people. In essence, it's a statement of divine abundance and the foundation upon which God’s plan for Israel would be built. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this verse might mean in terms of God's character or His relationship with his people?