1 Chronicles 14:1

KJV

¶ Now Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and timber of cedars, with masons and carpenters, to build him an house.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now Hiram {H2438}{H2361} king {H4428} of Tyre {H6865} sent {H7971} messengers {H4397} to David {H1732}, and timber {H6086} of cedars {H730}, with masons {H7023} and carpenters {H2796}, to build {H1129} him an house {H1004}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Huram king of Tzor sent envoys to David with cedar logs, and with them stonemasons and carpenters, to build him a palace.

Berean Standard Bible

Now Hiram king of Tyre sent envoys to David, along with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters, to build a palace for him.

American Standard Version

And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar-trees, and masons, and carpenters, to build him a house.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 14:1 records a significant moment in the consolidation of King David's reign, marking the divine favor and international recognition bestowed upon the newly established Israelite monarchy. This verse details the unsolicited diplomatic overture from Hiram, the powerful King of Tyre, who sends valuable cedar timber and highly skilled craftsmen—masons and carpenters—to Jerusalem. This provision enables David to construct a magnificent royal palace, symbolizing the stability, prosperity, and legitimacy of his kingdom under God's sovereign hand, and setting the stage for future national endeavors.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows David's anointing as king over all Israel and his decisive capture of Jerusalem, which he established as his capital and the site of the Ark of the Covenant ([1 Chronicles 11:4-7](/1_chronicles/11-4 "1 Chronicles 11:4-7 - David Conquers Jerusalem")). The narrative in 1 Chronicles is highly selective, focusing on David's spiritual and administrative achievements, particularly those related to the establishment of the kingdom and the preparations for the Temple. Hiram's assistance in building David's palace is presented as a foundational act, solidifying David's earthly dwelling before the narrative turns to his desire to build a "house" for the Lord ([1 Chronicles 17:1](/1_chronicles/17-1 "1 Chronicles 17:1 - David's Desire to Build God a House")). This event also has a parallel account in [2 Samuel 5:11](/2_samuel/5-11 "2 Samuel 5:11 - Hiram's Aid to David"), underscoring its historical importance and the Chronicler's emphasis on David's divinely sanctioned rise to power.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Tyre was a prominent Phoenician city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, renowned in the ancient Near East for its maritime trade, immense wealth, and exceptional craftsmanship. The region of Lebanon, just north of Israel, was the primary source of the highly prized cedar wood, known for its durability, aromatic qualities, and resistance to decay, making it a luxury building material reserved for temples and royal palaces. Phoenician artisans, including masons and carpenters, were considered among the most skilled in the ancient world, possessing advanced techniques in stone-cutting and woodworking that were likely superior to those available in Israel at the time. Hiram's initiative to send these resources and experts to David was a significant diplomatic gesture, signifying a recognition of David's burgeoning power and an establishment of a mutually beneficial alliance that would continue into Solomon's reign ([1 Kings 5:1-12](/1_kings/5-1 "1 Kings 5:1-12 - Solomon and Hiram's Alliance")). This alliance provided Israel with crucial access to materials and expertise vital for large-scale construction projects.

* **Key Themes:** The provision from Hiram highlights several key themes in 1 Chronicles. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Establishment and Provision**, demonstrating God's active hand in solidifying David's throne and kingdom, not merely through military victories but also through unexpected foreign aid. This signifies that David's rule was divinely ordained and supported, reflecting God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. Secondly, the event illustrates **International Recognition**, as Hiram's gesture indicates that David's kingdom was gaining significant respect and standing among neighboring nations, transitioning from a tribal confederacy to a recognized regional power. This alliance fostered crucial trade and diplomatic ties. Lastly, the construction of a permanent royal residence in Jerusalem was vital for **Laying Foundations** for the city's role as the political and spiritual capital of Israel. This stability was a necessary precursor to David's later desire to build a permanent house for the Lord, the Temple, as recorded in [1 Chronicles 17:1](/1_chronicles/17-1 "1 Chronicles 17:1 - David's Desire to Build God a House"), emphasizing the importance of establishing a secure earthly dwelling before contemplating a dwelling for God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hiram (Hebrew, _ḥîrām'_):** The name Hiram (חִירָם) means "my brother is exalted" or "noble brother." This name is significant as it denotes a close, almost familial, relationship between the kings, even though they were from different nations and worshipped different deities. The unsolicited nature of Hiram's aid suggests a recognition of David's rising power and perhaps a desire to forge a strategic alliance, reflecting a pragmatic diplomacy that would prove mutually beneficial for both Tyre's trade routes and Israel's stability.
* **Tyre (Hebrew, _ṣōr'_):** The city of Tyre (צֹר) literally means "rock," referring to its fortified island location off the Phoenician coast. Tyre was a dominant maritime power, controlling vast trade networks and renowned for its wealth, skilled artisans, and access to the valuable cedar forests of Lebanon. Its involvement signifies David's kingdom entering into the broader geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East, gaining access to resources and expertise that would have been otherwise unattainable for a nascent kingdom.
* **Cedars (Hebrew, _ʾerez'_):** The "timber of cedars" (אֶרֶז) refers specifically to the magnificent cedar of Lebanon (_Cedrus libani_), a highly prized and durable wood. Its use in royal and sacred architecture throughout the ancient Near East symbolized strength, permanence, and luxury. The provision of cedar by Hiram underscores the quality and grandeur intended for David's palace, elevating it beyond a simple dwelling and signifying the prestige and divine blessing upon David's reign.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David,"**: This opening clause establishes the proactive and diplomatic initiative taken by Hiram, a powerful foreign monarch. The sending of "messengers" (מַלְאָכִים, _malʾāḵîm_) indicates a formal and respectful approach, acknowledging David's new status as king over all Israel. This unsolicited gesture highlights David's growing international reputation and the stability of his newly unified kingdom, signaling recognition from a significant regional power.
* **"and timber of cedars,"**: This specifies the primary material provided by Hiram. Cedar wood from Lebanon was a highly valued, luxurious, and durable building material. Its inclusion signifies the intention to construct a structure of considerable quality and grandeur, befitting a king divinely chosen and established. The abundance of this material from Tyre's sphere of influence demonstrates a significant resource transfer.
* **"with masons and carpenters,"**: Beyond raw materials, Hiram also provided the specialized labor necessary for such a grand construction project. "Masons" (חָרָשֵׁי אֶבֶן, _ḥārāšê ʾeven_, literally "craftsmen of stone") and "carpenters" (חָרָשֵׁי עֵץ, _ḥārāšê ʿēṣ_, literally "craftsmen of wood") were highly skilled artisans, particularly renowned in Phoenicia. Their expertise was crucial for working with the large, heavy cedar timbers and for constructing a palace of the desired scale and quality, indicating a practical and comprehensive provision for David's needs.
* **"to build him an house."**: The ultimate purpose of Hiram's provision was to construct a "house" (בַּיִת, _bayit_) for David. In this context, "house" refers to a royal palace, a permanent and magnificent residence. This act of building a secure and impressive dwelling for the king in his new capital, Jerusalem, was a physical manifestation of the consolidation of David's kingdom and a symbol of its stability and divine establishment, preceding and in some ways preparing for the greater "house" David would desire to build for the Lord.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler's account in 1 Chronicles 14:1 employs several literary devices to emphasize the significance of this event. There is clear **Parallelism** with the account in [2 Samuel 5:11](/2_samuel/5-11 "2 Samuel 5:11 - Hiram's Aid to David"), which serves to validate the historical accuracy of the event while also reinforcing its importance in the Chronicler's theological narrative. The unsolicited nature of Hiram's gift, a powerful foreign king providing luxury materials and skilled labor, can be seen as an instance of **Divine Providence**, highlighting God's active hand in providing for David's needs and establishing his kingdom. The "house" David builds is not merely a dwelling but a **Symbol** of his established reign and the stability of his kingdom, a necessary step before the more significant "house" (Temple) for God can be contemplated. This also subtly employs **Foreshadowing**, as the alliance with Tyre and the use of cedar and skilled craftsmen will be crucial for the later construction of the Temple under Solomon, as detailed in [1 Kings 5](/1_kings/5 "1 Kings 5 - Solomon's Alliance with Hiram").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 14:1 powerfully illustrates God's sovereign provision and the establishment of David's kingdom. The unsolicited aid from Hiram, a foreign king, underscores that God's favor extends beyond Israel's borders, orchestrating international relations to fulfill His purposes for His chosen king. This divine provision for David's earthly "house" not only solidified his reign but also subtly prepared the way for the greater "house" of God, the Temple, which David would later envision. It is a testament to the truth that when God establishes a work, He also provides the necessary resources, often from unexpected sources, demonstrating His comprehensive care and the universal scope of His providence. This act of building a stable royal residence was a foundational step in establishing Jerusalem as the spiritual and political center of Israel, a necessary precursor to the city's future glory.

* [1 Kings 5:1-12](/1_kings/5-1 "1 Kings 5:1-12 - Solomon and Hiram's Alliance")
* [Psalm 127:1](/psalms/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - Unless the LORD Builds the House")
* [Isaiah 60:13](/isaiah/60-13 "Isaiah 60:13 - The Glory of Lebanon Comes to Zion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The story of Hiram's provision to David in 1 Chronicles 14:1 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God's plans for us are comprehensive, often involving resources, skills, and relationships from unexpected places. Just as a pagan king contributed to the establishment of God's chosen king, God can use diverse individuals and circumstances, even those seemingly outside our spiritual circles, to advance His kingdom and strengthen His people. This passage encourages us to recognize and receive God's provision with gratitude, understanding that every good and perfect gift comes from Him ([James 1:17](/james/1-17 "James 1:17 - Every Good and Perfect Gift")). It also emphasizes the importance of building stable foundations in our lives, families, and ministries. Before we can embark on grander spiritual endeavors, like building a "house for the Lord," we often need to establish our own "house"—our personal and communal stability—through God's provision and guidance. This stability allows us to operate from a place of strength and prepares us for the greater callings God has for us, always recognizing that "unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain" ([Psalm 127:1](/psalms/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - Unless the LORD Builds the House")).

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How have you experienced God's provision coming from unexpected sources in your life or ministry?**
* **In what ways might God be using "foreign" or unconventional resources to strengthen your "house" (your life, family, or work)?**
* **What foundations is God calling you to build or solidify in your life before embarking on a greater calling or endeavor?**
* **How does recognizing God's comprehensive provision for David encourage you to trust Him with your own needs and aspirations?**

### FAQ
**Why is Hiram's unsolicited help significant for David's reign?**

Answer: Hiram's unsolicited help is highly significant because it demonstrates the immediate and widespread recognition of David's kingship, not just within Israel but among powerful neighboring nations. This act of diplomacy and provision of luxury materials (cedar) and skilled labor (masons and carpenters) from a wealthy and advanced city-state like Tyre signals the divine favor upon David and the stability of his newly unified kingdom. It shows that David's reign was not merely a human achievement but divinely sanctioned and supported, as God orchestrated even foreign powers to contribute to the establishment of His chosen king's "house." This also laid the groundwork for future alliances and trade that would benefit Israel, particularly during Solomon's reign when Hiram would again provide critical resources for the Temple's construction ([1 Kings 5:1-12](/1_kings/5-1 "1 Kings 5:1-12 - Solomon and Hiram's Alliance")).

**What is the meaning of "to build him an house" in this context, and how does it relate to the later Temple?**

Answer: In 1 Chronicles 14:1, "to build him an house" refers to the construction of a royal palace for King David in Jerusalem. This "house" signifies a permanent, magnificent dwelling that served as the political and administrative center of his kingdom. It was a crucial step in establishing Jerusalem as the capital and solidifying David's rule. This earthly "house" for David is presented as a necessary precursor to the greater "house" that David would later desire to build for the Lord—the Temple ([1 Chronicles 17:1](/1_chronicles/17-1 "1 Chronicles 17:1 - David's Desire to Build God a House")). While David was not permitted to build the Temple, his desire and the stability of his own "house" set the stage for his son Solomon to fulfill that grand task. The parallel between David's earthly house and God's spiritual house underscores the Chronicler's theological emphasis on God's dwelling among His people and the importance of a stable, divinely established kingdom as the context for true worship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 14:1, in its depiction of David's earthly "house" being established through divine provision and international recognition, foreshadows the ultimate "house" and eternal kingdom of Christ. David's palace, built with the finest materials and skilled labor, symbolized the stability and glory of his reign, a reign that was a type of the messianic kingdom. The Davidic covenant, revealed shortly after David's house is built ([2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant")), promises an eternal "house" (dynasty) for David, whose throne would be established forever. This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Son of David, whose kingdom is not of this world yet extends over all creation ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Eternal Kingdom of Christ")). Just as Hiram provided for David's physical dwelling, God in Christ provides the ultimate dwelling for humanity—a spiritual house built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone")). Jesus himself declared that he would rebuild the temple, referring to his own body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus and the Temple")), becoming the true and living tabernacle where God dwells among His people. Thus, the establishment of David's physical house points to the spiritual reality of Christ's eternal kingdom and His role as the head of the church, His spiritual "house," built not with cedars and stone, but with living stones—believers united in Him ([1 Peter 2:4-5](/1_peter/2-4 "1 Peter 2:4-5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezra 3:7

They gave money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil, unto them of Zidon, and to them of Tyre, to bring cedar trees from Lebanon to the sea of Joppa, according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia.

2 Samuel 5:11

¶ And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and carpenters, and masons: and they built David an house.

2 Samuel 5:16

And Elishama, and Eliada, and Eliphalet.

2 Chronicles 2:3

And Solomon sent to Huram the king of Tyre, saying, As thou didst deal with David my father, and didst send him cedars to build him an house to dwell therein, [even so deal with me].

2 Chronicles 2:8

Send me also cedar trees, fir trees, and algum trees, out of Lebanon: for I know that thy servants can skill to cut timber in Lebanon; and, behold, my servants [shall be] with thy servants,

2 Chronicles 2:12

Huram said moreover, Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel, that made heaven and earth, who hath given to David the king a wise son, endued with prudence and understanding, that might build an house for the LORD, and an house for his kingdom.

1 Kings 7:1

¶ But Solomon was building his own house thirteen years, and he finished all his house.