Then Solomon went to Ezion-geber and Eloth on the shore of the sea, in the land of Edom.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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2 Chronicles 8:17
What does 2 Chronicles 8:17 mean?
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2 Chronicles 8:17
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Here's something easy to miss: The verse highlights how, even in his success, Solomon's focus stretched beyond his immediate kingdom. By venturing to these coastal ports, he was actively expanding Israel's reach and engaging with the wider world, a strategic move that laid the groundwork for future trade and influence. This wasn't just a geographical note; it shows a forward-thinking ambition connected to God's promises of blessing and expansion.
Then Solomon went to Ezion-geber and Eloth on the shore of the sea, in the land of Edom.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Solomon has just finished building the Temple and his own palace, magnificent structures that solidified his kingdom and brought him great renown. These verses describe his subsequent efforts to expand and secure his wealth and influence through extensive trade operations, establishing key ports to facilitate commerce throughout the region. This leads him to secure these important coastal cities in Edom.
Solomon's reign is often remembered for wisdom and temple-building. But did you know he was also a shrewd businessman with a keen eye for geography?
Verse 17 reveals Solomon establishing a presence in Ezion-geber and Eloth, located on the Gulf of Aqaba, a crucial gateway to the Red Sea. This wasn't just about claiming territory; it was about controlling vital trade routes.
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Solomon's development of Ezion-geber and Eloth showcases his ambition to expand Israel's influence and wealth through maritime trade, leveraging his father's military conquests and his own building projects.
c. 970 BC
Solomon Begins Reign
David, Solomon's father, had recently conquered the Edomites, giving Solomon access to the region and its strategic ports. This set the stage for his later ventures.
c. 967 BC
Temple Construction Finished
Solomon completed the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem, a central achievement of his reign and a symbol of Israel's stability and God's presence.
c. 965 BC— this verse
Solomon Develops Port Cities
Following the Temple's completion, Solomon turned his attention to consolidating his kingdom's wealth and power through trade. He began developing Ezion-geber and Eloth as key port cities.
c. 960 BC
Joint Fleet with Hiram
Solomon partnered with King Hiram of Tyre to launch a maritime trading venture from Ezion-geber to distant lands like Ophir, bringing back vast riches.
c. 931 BC
Kingdom Divides
After Solomon's death, the united kingdom fractured into two: Israel in the north and Judah in the south, significantly altering the geopolitical landscape.
This passage describes Solomon's maritime ventures, specifically building a fleet at Ezion-geber, directly corroborating the location and activity mentioned in 2 Chronicles 8:17.
Deuteronomy 2:8This verse records the Israelites passing by the land of Edom without conflict, setting the stage for later Israelite presence and trade in that region, including Solomon's activities.
Numbers 24:7This prophecy speaks of a future king arising from Israel who will have dominion over many nations, which Solomon's extensive trade and established ports, like those at Ezion-geber, began to fulfill.
1 Kings 10:22This verse highlights the vast wealth and reach of Solomon's kingdom, made possible in part by his control of strategic port cities like Ezion-geber and Eloth for international trade.
Here's something easy to miss: The verse highlights how, even in his success, Solomon's focus stretched beyond his immediate kingdom. By venturing to these coastal ports, he was actively expanding Israel's reach and engaging with the wider world, a strategic move that laid the groundwork for future trade and influence. This wasn't just a geographical note; it shows a forward-thinking ambition connected to God's promises of blessing and expansion.
Solomon has just finished building the Temple and his own palace, magnificent structures that solidified his kingdom and brought him great renown. These verses describe his subsequent efforts to expand and secure his wealth and influence through extensive trade operations, establishing key ports to facilitate commerce throughout the region. This leads him to secure these important coastal cities in Edom.
Solomon has just finished building the Temple and his own palace, magnificent structures that solidified his kingdom and brought him great renown. These verses describe his subsequent efforts to expand and secure his wealth and influence through extensive trade operations, establishing key ports to facilitate commerce throughout the region. This leads him to secure these important coastal cities in Edom.
"Then Solomon went to Ezion-geber and Eloth on the shore of the sea, in the land of Edom." — Here's something easy to miss: The verse highlights how, even in his success, Solomon's focus stretched beyond his immediate kingdom. By venturing to these coastal ports, he was actively expanding…
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Last reviewed October 2026