1 Kings 10:25

KJV

And they brought every man his present, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and garments, and armour, and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they brought {H935} every man {H376} his present {H4503}, vessels {H3627} of silver {H3701}, and vessels {H3627} of gold {H2091}, and garments {H8008}, and armour {H5402}, and spices {H1314}, horses {H5483}, and mules {H6505}, a rate {H1697} year {H8141} by year {H8141}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Each one brought his present - articles of silver, articles of gold, clothing, armor, spices, horses and mules; and this continued year after year.

Berean Standard Bible

Year after year, each visitor would bring his tribute: articles of silver and gold, clothing, weapons, spices, horses, and mules.

American Standard Version

And they brought every man his tribute, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, and armor, and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 10:25 provides a vivid snapshot of the unparalleled wealth and international prestige enjoyed by King Solomon during the zenith of his reign. This verse meticulously details the nature of the annual tribute received from various kings and nations, including a diverse array of precious metals, textiles, military provisions, and livestock. It underscores the immense prosperity and influence of the Israelite kingdom under Solomon's rule, serving as tangible evidence of God's abundant blessing and the widespread recognition of his wisdom and authority across the ancient Near East.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader section of 1 Kings (chapters 9-10) that meticulously chronicles the unparalleled glory, wealth, and wisdom of King Solomon. It immediately follows the celebrated visit of the Queen of Sheba in [1 Kings 10:1-13](/1_kings/10-1 "1 Kings 10:1-13 - The Queen of Sheba's Visit to Solomon"), an event that itself highlights Solomon's international renown. Verses [1 Kings 10:14-29](/1_kings/10-14 "1 Kings 10:14-29 - Solomon's Riches and Splendor") specifically elaborate on the vast accumulation of gold, silver, ivory, and other treasures, positioning 1 Kings 10:25 as a key detail illustrating the *source* and *regularity* of a significant portion of this wealth. It functions as a summary statement of the continuous inflow of tribute that solidified Israel's economic and political dominance, setting the stage for the subsequent descriptions of Solomon's vast chariot cities and horse trade.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the giving of "presents" or tribute was a common practice signifying political submission, alliance, or a desire for favorable relations with a dominant power. These were not merely voluntary gifts but often a form of annual taxation or a recognition of suzerainty. Solomon's kingdom, strategically located at the crossroads of major trade routes, was ideally positioned to exert such influence. The diverse nature of the tribute—silver, gold, garments, armor, spices, horses, and mules—reflects the varied resources and industries of the contributing nations, as well as the comprehensive needs and luxuries of a powerful monarchy. This annual system of tribute, "a rate year by year," indicates a stable and established international order where Solomon's authority was widely acknowledged and respected, allowing Israel to flourish economically without extensive military conquest.
* **Key Themes:** The verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Kings. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Unparalleled Riches and Glory**, demonstrating the tangible manifestation of God's promise to Solomon in [1 Kings 3:13](/1_kings/3-13 "1 Kings 3:13 - God's Promise of Riches and Honor to Solomon") that he would receive wealth and honor beyond any king before or after him. This abundance was a sign of divine favor and the peak of Israel's earthly prosperity. Secondly, it highlights Solomon's **International Influence and Authority**, as kings from diverse lands recognized his dominion, wisdom, and power, solidifying Israel's political and economic standing as a regional hegemon. The annual nature of the tribute, also recorded in [2 Chronicles 9:24](/2_chronicles/9-24 "2 Chronicles 9:24 - Parallel Account of Annual Tribute"), underscores the sustained nature of this recognition. Finally, it subtly foreshadows the dangers of such immense wealth, a theme that becomes increasingly prominent as Solomon's reign progresses and he begins to accumulate forbidden items (horses, gold, and many wives) in violation of the Deuteronomic law for kings found in [Deuteronomy 17:16-17](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16-17 - Warnings Against Royal Accumulation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Present (Hebrew, _minchah'_):** The Hebrew word מִנְחָה (_minchah_) is a versatile term that can refer to a grain offering, a general gift, or, as in this context, a tribute paid by an inferior to a superior. Here, it carries the strong connotation of a mandatory payment or homage, signifying the political and economic submission of other nations to Solomon's suzerainty. It underscores the hierarchical relationship between Solomon and the kings who brought these items, solidifying his status as a dominant regional power.
* **Rate (Hebrew, _mas'_):** While the KJV translates "a rate year by year," the Hebrew behind "rate" in this specific phrase is not the common word for forced labor or tribute (_mas_). Instead, the phrase "year by year" (שָׁנָה בְּשָׁנָה, _shanah b'shanah_) emphasizes the **regularity and consistency** of these payments. This indicates an established, systematic flow of international tribute rather than sporadic, voluntary gifts. It speaks to the stability and sustained prosperity of Solomon's kingdom, built upon a recognized system of international obligation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they brought every man his present":** This opening clause establishes the widespread nature of the tribute. "Every man" refers to the various kings and rulers mentioned implicitly in the broader context of Solomon's international relations (e.g., [1 Kings 4:21](/1_kings/4-21 "1 Kings 4:21 - Solomon's Dominion and Tribute")). The act of bringing a "present" (as _minchah_) signifies an act of homage, acknowledging Solomon's superior status and authority.
* **"vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and garments, and armour, and spices, horses, and mules":** This detailed enumeration provides a concrete inventory of the vast and diverse wealth flowing into Solomon's kingdom. "Vessels of silver and gold" speak to immense material riches and luxury. "Garments" (fine textiles) and "armour" (military provisions) indicate both the sophistication of the contributing cultures and the practical needs of a powerful state. "Spices" highlight the lucrative trade routes and exotic luxuries available. "Horses and mules" were crucial for military strength and transport, signifying power and mobility in the ancient world. The sheer variety underscores the comprehensive nature of the tribute and the vastness of Solomon's influence.
* **"a rate year by year":** This concluding phrase emphasizes the systematic and annual nature of these payments. It was not a one-time windfall but a continuous, predictable source of income and resources for Solomon's kingdom. This regularity speaks to the stability of his international relations and the enduring recognition of his authority, contributing significantly to the sustained prosperity described throughout 1 Kings 10.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several effective literary devices to convey the magnitude of Solomon's wealth and influence. **Enumeration** or **Cataloging** is prominently used through the detailed list of items: "vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and garments, and armour, and spices, horses, and mules." This extensive list creates a vivid mental picture of the sheer volume and variety of the tribute, overwhelming the reader with the sense of abundance. The **Repetition** of "vessels of silver, and vessels of gold" emphasizes the preciousness and quantity of these metals, highlighting the kingdom's opulence. Furthermore, the overall description borders on **Hyperbole**, as the text consistently portrays Solomon's wealth as "unparalleled" and "exceeding" that of all other kings ([1 Kings 10:23](/1_kings/10-23 "1 Kings 10:23 - Solomon's Unrivaled Wealth and Wisdom")), effectively using exaggeration to underscore his unique status. Finally, the "presents" themselves function as **Symbolism**, representing not just material goods but the political submission, economic power, and divine favor that characterized Solomon's reign at its peak.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The immense wealth and tribute described in 1 Kings 10:25 stand as a powerful testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Solomon, particularly the promise of unprecedented riches and honor given in response to Solomon's request for wisdom ([1 Kings 3:13](/1_kings/3-13 "1 Kings 3:13 - God's Promise of Wealth and Honor")). This material abundance was a visible sign of divine blessing upon a king who, at this point in his reign, largely walked in obedience. It demonstrates that God is capable of bestowing earthly prosperity upon His people, often as a consequence of seeking His kingdom and righteousness first. However, the narrative of Solomon's later life also subtly foreshadows the inherent dangers of such wealth, as it can lead to self-reliance, idolatry, and a departure from God's commands. The very items listed as tribute—silver, gold, horses—are precisely what Deuteronomy warns kings against accumulating excessively ([Deuteronomy 17:16-17](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16-17 - Warnings Against Royal Accumulation")), setting up a tragic irony for Solomon's eventual decline.

* [Deuteronomy 17:16-17](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16-17 - Warnings Against Royal Accumulation")
* [Proverbs 3:9-10](/proverbs/3-9 "Proverbs 3:9-10 - Honoring God with Your Wealth")
* [Isaiah 2:7](/isaiah/2-7 "Isaiah 2:7 - Prophecy of Israel's Materialism")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of Solomon's annual tribute in 1 Kings 10:25 invites us to reflect on the nature of true prosperity and the responsibilities that accompany influence and abundance. While Solomon's material wealth was a unique manifestation of God's blessing in a specific historical context, it reminds us that all resources ultimately belong to God and are entrusted to us for His purposes. The verse challenges us to consider whether our own "presents"—our talents, resources, and influence—are being used to honor God and advance His kingdom, or if they risk becoming ends in themselves, leading to the very spiritual compromises that eventually plagued Solomon. It underscores that seeking wisdom and righteousness, as Solomon initially did, is the foundation for genuine flourishing, which may or may not include material riches. Ultimately, Solomon's story serves as a profound reminder that earthly glory, however magnificent, is transient, and true, lasting treasure is found in an enduring relationship with God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Solomon's unparalleled material wealth, as described here, challenge or affirm your understanding of God's blessings in a believer's life today?**
* **In what ways might the pursuit or accumulation of earthly "presents" (whether wealth, status, or power) distract from or enhance one's spiritual walk?**
* **What lessons can we draw from Solomon's zenith regarding the responsibilities that come with influence and prosperity, both personally and corporately?**

### FAQ
**Who brought these "presents" to Solomon, and what was their significance?**

Answer: These "presents" were brought by various kings and nations who were either under Solomon's dominion, seeking his favor, or establishing alliances with him. The broader context of 1 Kings indicates that Solomon ruled over "all the kingdoms from the Euphrates River to the land of the Philistines, as far as the border of Egypt" ([1 Kings 4:21](/1_kings/4-21 "1 Kings 4:21 - Solomon's Dominion and Tribute")). These annual tributes were not merely voluntary gifts but a form of regular taxation or homage, signifying the political and economic submission of these entities to Solomon's authority. Their significance lay in demonstrating and solidifying Israel's unprecedented power, wealth, and international influence during Solomon's reign.

**How did Solomon's wealth compare to other kings of his time, and what was its source?**

Answer: The biblical text explicitly states that King Solomon "excelled all the kings of the earth in riches and in wisdom" ([1 Kings 10:23](/1_kings/10-23 "1 Kings 10:23 - Solomon's Unrivaled Wealth and Wisdom")). His wealth was truly unparalleled for his era. Its source was multifaceted: primarily, it was a direct fulfillment of God's promise to him ([1 Kings 3:13](/1_kings/3-13 "1 Kings 3:13 - God's Promise of Riches and Honor to Solomon")) in response to his humble request for wisdom. Beyond divine blessing, Solomon's wealth was generated through strategic trade (especially in horses and chariots), taxation of his own people, lucrative commercial ventures (like the Ophir gold trade), and, as 1 Kings 10:25 highlights, the consistent annual tribute from subject nations and those seeking his favor.

**Does this verse imply that material wealth is always a sign of God's favor?**

Answer: While in Solomon's unique case, his immense wealth was indeed a direct sign of God's favor and a fulfillment of divine promise, the Bible presents a more nuanced view of material wealth. This verse describes a specific historical context where God uniquely blessed Solomon for specific purposes related to the establishment of His kingdom on earth. However, the broader biblical narrative, including Solomon's own later life and the teachings of the prophets and Jesus, cautions against equating material wealth directly and universally with God's favor. The New Testament, for instance, often warns about the dangers of riches ([Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Laying Up Treasures in Heaven"); [Mark 10:23-25](/mark/10-23 "Mark 10:23-25 - The Rich Young Ruler")), emphasizing spiritual treasures and the kingdom of God as the ultimate pursuit. True blessing is often defined by spiritual richness, righteousness, and a right relationship with God, rather than by material possessions.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The unparalleled glory, wisdom, and tribute brought to King Solomon, as depicted in 1 Kings 10:25, serve as a magnificent, albeit imperfect, foreshadowing of the ultimate King and His eternal kingdom—Jesus Christ. Solomon's reign represented the pinnacle of Israel's earthly power and prosperity, a golden age where kings from afar brought their "presents" to acknowledge his dominion. Yet, Solomon's kingdom was temporal, his wisdom eventually flawed, and his glory ultimately faded, leading to division and decline. Christ, however, is the true and greater King, whose wisdom infinitely surpasses Solomon's ([Matthew 12:42](/matthew/12-42 "Matthew 12:42 - The Queen of the South and Christ")). While Solomon received earthly treasures, the "riches" of Christ are spiritual and eternal, encompassing "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" hidden in Him ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge")). The "presents" brought to Solomon by earthly kings point forward to the universal worship and submission that will be rendered to Christ, the Lamb of God, who is worthy to receive "power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!" ([Revelation 5:12](/revelation/5-12 "Revelation 5:12 - Worthy is the Lamb")). Unlike Solomon's kingdom, which was "not of this world" in its ultimate spiritual reality ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")), Christ's reign is eternal, unshakable, and brings true, lasting prosperity to all who bow before Him, not with silver and gold, but with transformed hearts and lives.

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

Genesis 36:24

And these [are] the children of Zibeon; both Ajah, and Anah: this [was that] Anah that found the mules in the wilderness, as he fed the asses of Zibeon his father.

2 Kings 17:4

And the king of Assyria found conspiracy in Hoshea: for he had sent messengers to So king of Egypt, and brought no present to the king of Assyria, as [he had done] year by year: therefore the king of Assyria shut him up, and bound him in prison.

2 Samuel 8:10

Then Toi sent Joram his son unto king David, to salute him, and to bless him, because he had fought against Hadadezer, and smitten him: for Hadadezer had wars with Toi. And [Joram] brought with him vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and vessels of brass:

Job 42:11

Then came there unto him all his brethren, and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance before, and did eat bread with him in his house: and they bemoaned him, and comforted him over all the evil that the LORD had brought upon him: every man also gave him a piece of money, and every one an earring of gold.

2 Samuel 8:2

And he smote Moab, and measured them with a line, casting them down to the ground; even with two lines measured he to put to death, and with one full line to keep alive. And [so] the Moabites became David's servants, [and] brought gifts.

2 Chronicles 26:8

And the Ammonites gave gifts to Uzziah: and his name spread abroad [even] to the entering in of Egypt; for he strengthened [himself] exceedingly.

Esther 8:10

And he wrote in the king Ahasuerus' name, and sealed [it] with the king's ring, and sent letters by posts on horseback, [and] riders on mules, camels, [and] young dromedaries: