When Bishop Heber read his beautiful poem, "Palestine," in manuscript to Sir Walter Scott, his friend remarked that in speaking of the Temple of Solomon he had forgotten to refer to the silence which prevailed during its erection. The poet immediately retired for a few minutes and introduced the following beautiful lines: No workman's steel, no ponderous axes rung; Like some tall palm, the noiseless fabric sprung.
This very remarkable circumstance has been frequently noticed. It is regarded as an indication of the deep sense which Solomon had of the sacredness of the work and it has given rise to many pious and useful meditations.
Matthew Henry in his commentary says, "It was to be the temple of the God of peace, therefore no iron tool must be heard in it. Quietness and silence both become religious exercises; God's work should be done with as much care and as little noise as may be. The temple was thrown down with axes and hammers; they that did it roared in the midst of the congregation (Psa. 74:4, 64Thine enemies roar in the midst of thy congregations; they set up their ensigns for signs. (Psalm 74:4)
6But now they break down the carved work thereof at once with axes and hammers. (Psalm 74:6)), but it was built up in silence. Clamor and violence often hinder, but never further the work of God." These thoughts are well worthy of consideration, especially of those who can never assert their own opinions without violently assailing those of others, nor do anything for God without inviting the multitude to come and see their zeal for the Lord of Hosts.
Things New and Old