2 Chronicles 3:1
Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD at Jerusalem in mount Moriah, where the Lord appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.
2 Chronicles 3:1 · King James Version
Meaning
According to the book of Chronicles in the Old Testament, this verse describes the beginning of the construction of the Temple of the Lord by King Solomon in Jerusalem. Mount Moriah was chosen as the site for the temple because it was where the Lord appeared to King David, Solomon's father. The location was specifically on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite, which David had purchased to build an altar to the Lord. This act by Solomon signifies the fulfillment of one of David's desires to build a permanent dwelling place for the Lord. The Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem became the center of worship for the Israelites and a symbol of their covenant with God. The construction of the temple was a significant event in the history of Israel, demonstrating their devotion and commitment to God.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of 2 Chronicles 3:1, it is important to note the significance of the location where Solomon began to build the house of the LORD. Mount Moriah is a sacred site in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, believed to be the location where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac. This event is seen as a test of Abraham's faith and obedience to God. The fact that the temple was built on this holy mountain further emphasizes the deep connection between God and His people. Additionally, the reference to David's preparations on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite underscores the importance of obedience and worship in establishing a place for God's presence among His people. Through these details, the verse highlights the reverence and devotion required in building a place where God's glory can dwell.
2 Chronicles 3:1 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then Solomon began to build the house of Jehovah at Jerusalem on mount Moriah, where [Jehovah] appeared unto David his father, which he made ready in the place that David had appointed, in the threshing-floor of Ornan the Jebusite.
World English Bible
Then Solomon began to build Yahweh’s house at Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where Yahweh appeared to David his father, which he prepared in the place that David had appointed, in the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.
Douay-Rheims
And Solomon began to build the house of the Lord in Jerusalem, in mount Moria, which had been shewn to David his father, in the place which David had prepared in the thrashingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So Salomon began to buyld the house of the Lord in Ierusalem, in mount Moriah which had bene declared vnto Dauid his father, in the place that Dauid prepared in the thresshing floore of Ornan the Iebusite.