Biblical Criticism – The Number of Solomon the Wise’s Horse Stalls
In this lecture, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains the apparent contradiction between 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles regarding the number of horse stalls owned by King Solomon. 1 Kings mentions 40,000 stalls, while 2 Chronicles states 4,000 stalls.
Clarifying the Difference:
The Pope emphasizes that this is not a contradiction, but rather a matter of linguistic usage. The word “stall” could refer either to:
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The larger building housing multiple smaller stalls, or
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The individual stalls themselves where the horses were kept.
Linguistic and Logical Explanation:
Using a simple analogy, he compares it to calling both the entire “bathroom complex” and each separate toilet inside it by the same name. Therefore, Solomon could have had 4,000 buildings, each containing 10 stalls, totaling 40,000 stalls. Both numbers are correct, referring to different aspects of the same reality.
Numerical Analysis:
He also explains that the other biblical figure — 12,000 horsemen — fits perfectly with this logic, since each chariot was drawn by two or four horses. Thus, the count of 40,000 horses harmonizes with the numbers of chariots and riders.
Spiritual and Intellectual Insight:
Through this teaching, the Pope shows that every word in Scripture is precise, and any seeming contradiction can be resolved by understanding the language, context, and symbolism of the text. He encourages believers to study the Bible with a discerning and faithful heart.
Final Message:
The lecture concludes by affirming that reading Scripture requires a contemplative spirit and an ear for discernment, recognizing that differences in expression are not contradictions but expressions of the depth and richness of divine revelation.
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