b. The building and its furnishings (3:1-5:1)

This section begins with the statement that Solomon began to work (3:1) and closes with a note about the completion of the task (5:1). Araunah’s threshing floor on Mount Moriah is the proper site for the temple. The chronicler links David’s lot to Ge 22 and Abraham’s aborted sacrifice of Isaac. The Lord mercifully appeared to both Abraham and David at this site. Thus, on the basis of both an ancient tradition and a recent deliverance, it is the appropriate place for the sanctuary.

The chronicler outlines the building and furnishing of the temple (3:3-4:22). He highlights various aspects from the foundation to the decorative pomegranates dangling from chains on the front pillars. Solomon provides utensils for worship made with undetermined amounts of bronze and gold. His preparations for worship are extensive and expensive. The stage is now set for the spiritual anointing of the house.