1 Kings 10:28

KJV

And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Solomon {H8010} had horses {H5483} brought {H4161} out of Egypt {H4714}, and linen yarn {H4723}: the king's {H4428} merchants {H5503} received {H3947} the linen yarn {H4723} at a price {H4242}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Shlomo's horses had been brought from Egypt and from Keveh, with the king's agents having bought them from the dealers in Keveh at the going price.

Berean Standard Bible

Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue.

American Standard Version

And the horses which Solomon had were brought out of Egypt; and the king’s merchants received them in droves, each drove at a price.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 10:28 offers a concise glimpse into the unparalleled economic power and global reach of King Solomon's reign, specifically detailing his acquisition of horses and linen yarn from Egypt. This verse, situated within a broader description of Solomon's opulent wealth and wisdom, highlights his sophisticated international trade network, managed by royal merchants. While showcasing the kingdom's prosperity, it subtly introduces a point of potential tension, as the acquisition of horses from Egypt directly contravened a specific divine instruction given to future Israelite kings, foreshadowing later deviations from covenant faithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is nestled within 1 Kings 10, a chapter dedicated to extolling the zenith of Solomon's glory, wisdom, and wealth. It immediately follows the account of the Queen of Sheba's visit, which served to confirm and amplify the reports of Solomon's extraordinary reign. The chapter details his vast riches, golden shields, ivory throne, and extensive trade. Verse 28, therefore, functions as a specific illustration of the mechanisms and commodities that fueled this immense prosperity, setting the stage for the subsequent chapters that will narrate Solomon's gradual spiritual decline, partly due to the very excesses and foreign entanglements hinted at here.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was renowned as a major power in the Near East, particularly for its advanced military technology, including chariots and warhorses, and its high-quality linen. Horses were not indigenous to Israel and had to be imported, making Egypt a primary source. The acquisition of horses was a strategic military and prestige asset, while fine linen was a luxury commodity. The mention of "the king's merchants" underscores the state-controlled nature of this trade, reflecting a highly organized economy. This trade route, often via Cilicia (modern Turkey), was significant, connecting the horse-breeding regions of the north with the markets of Egypt and Israel.
* **Key Themes:** 1 Kings 10:28 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Kings and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Solomon's immense wealth and international influence**, a direct fulfillment of God's promise to bless him with riches and honor (see [1 Kings 3:13](/1_kings/3-13 "1 Kings 3:13 - God's Promise to Solomon")). Secondly, it highlights the **sophistication of his kingdom's economy and trade networks**, showcasing Israel's rise as a regional power. Most critically, however, the specific mention of acquiring horses from Egypt introduces the theme of **potential disobedience and the dangers of worldly reliance**. The Deuteronomic Law explicitly warned Israelite kings against multiplying horses for themselves, "lest he lead the people back to Egypt" ([Deuteronomy 17:16](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16 - Prohibition Against Multiplying Horses")). This verse, therefore, serves as a subtle **foreshadowing** of Solomon's eventual spiritual compromise and the tragic decline of his kingdom, which is fully detailed in [1 Kings 11](/1_kings/11 "1 Kings 11 - Solomon's Apostasy and Decline").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Horses (Hebrew, _sûs_):** In the ancient Near East, horses, especially warhorses and chariots, symbolized military might, national prestige, and worldly power. Their acquisition from Egypt was particularly significant because it directly violated a specific command given to future Israelite kings in [Deuteronomy 17:16](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16 - The King's Prohibition Against Multiplying Horses"), which warned against multiplying horses or leading the people back to Egypt. This prohibition was intended to prevent reliance on foreign military strength or a return to the conditions of bondage, instead fostering trust in God alone for security. Solomon's accumulation of horses, though indicative of his power, thus subtly signals a deviation from divine instruction.
* **Linen Yarn (Hebrew, מִקְוֵה, _miqveh'_):** The Hebrew term _miqveh_ (or _miqweh_) is complex and has been translated variously as "collection," "hope," or "line." In this specific context, the KJV's "linen yarn" reflects a long-standing interpretive tradition, suggesting a trade in fine Egyptian linen, which was highly prized. Some scholars suggest _miqveh_ here refers to a "string" or "company" of horses, implying a royal monopoly on the import of both horses and linen. However, the most accepted understanding is that it refers to a specific commodity, likely high-quality linen thread or fabric, indicating the luxury goods involved in Solomon's trade.
* **King's Merchants (Hebrew, סֹחֲרֵי הַמֶּלֶךְ, _sōḥărê hamméleḵ_):** This phrase highlights that the extensive trade operations were not merely private enterprises but were state-controlled and managed directly by royal agents. This centralization of trade allowed Solomon to amass immense wealth and control strategic resources, reflecting a highly organized and sophisticated economic administration under his direct authority.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt":** This clause directly states Solomon's active role in acquiring horses from Egypt. It implies a deliberate and large-scale operation, highlighting the strategic importance of these animals for military strength and royal prestige in the ancient world. The source, Egypt, is crucial due to the Deuteronomic prohibition.
* **"and linen yarn":** This phrase indicates another significant commodity in Solomon's trade, specifically high-quality linen. This points to the breadth of his international commerce, encompassing not just military assets but also valuable luxury goods, further underscoring the opulence of his kingdom.
* **"the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price":** This final clause clarifies the mechanism of acquisition. It was not a gift but a commercial transaction, managed by royal agents. The phrase "at a price" emphasizes the transactional nature and the organized economic system in place, where valuable goods were purchased and imported, contributing to Solomon's vast treasury.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Foreshadowing** by subtly hinting at Solomon's future spiritual decline. The acquisition of horses from Egypt, while outwardly a sign of power, directly violates the Deuteronomic command in [Deuteronomy 17:16](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16 - The King's Prohibition Against Multiplying Horses"), which warned against multiplying horses from Egypt. This seemingly minor detail thus prefigures Solomon's later, more grievous acts of disobedience, particularly his accumulation of foreign wives and his turning to their gods, as detailed in [1 Kings 11](/1_kings/11 "1 Kings 11 - Solomon's Apostasy"). There is also an element of **Juxtaposition**, presenting Solomon's immense wealth and power alongside a subtle act of disobedience, creating a tension that will be resolved tragically later in the narrative. The horses themselves serve as **Symbolism**, representing worldly power and military might, which Solomon increasingly relied upon instead of exclusive trust in God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 10:28, while seemingly a straightforward economic detail, carries profound theological weight. It illustrates the inherent tension between God's blessing and human temptation. Solomon's wealth and wisdom were divine gifts, intended to glorify God and establish justice. However, the accumulation of horses from Egypt, despite being a symbol of worldly power and prosperity, represented a direct violation of God's specific command to Israelite kings. This act, though perhaps minor in isolation, signifies a dangerous shift from absolute reliance on God to a trust in worldly resources and alliances. It foreshadows the spiritual compromises that would ultimately lead to Solomon's downfall and the division of the kingdom, serving as a cautionary tale about how even blessings can become snares if they lead to disobedience or misplaced trust.

* [Deuteronomy 17:16](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16 - The King's Prohibition Against Multiplying Horses")
* [Psalm 20:7](/psalm/20-7 "Psalm 20:7 - Trust in the Name of the Lord")
* [Hosea 14:3](/hosea/14-3 "Hosea 14:3 - We Will Not Ride on Horses")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse, though brief, offers a timeless lesson for believers today. Solomon's acquisition of horses from Egypt, while demonstrating his kingdom's might, subtly reveals a heart beginning to drift from complete dependence on God. It reminds us that true security and lasting prosperity are not found in accumulating worldly power, wealth, or strategic alliances, but in unwavering obedience and trust in God's provision and guidance. We are constantly tempted to rely on our own resources, intelligence, or connections rather than on the Lord. This can manifest in seeking financial security above all else, trusting in political systems, or pursuing personal strength and influence at the expense of spiritual integrity. The subtle nature of Solomon's initial disobedience here is also a warning: deviation from God's path often begins with seemingly small compromises, which, if unchecked, can lead to significant spiritual decline.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I tempted to rely on worldly resources or strategies rather than on God's guidance and provision?**
* **Are there any "small" compromises or acts of disobedience in my life that, like Solomon's, could foreshadow a greater spiritual drift?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's power and faithfulness, rather than in my own abilities or external circumstances?**
* **What does it mean for me to "not multiply horses" in my modern context?**

### FAQ
**Why was it problematic for Solomon to acquire horses from Egypt, given his wealth and power?**

Answer: While seemingly a practical and strategic move for a powerful king, Solomon's extensive acquisition of horses from Egypt directly violated a specific divine command given to future Israelite kings in [Deuteronomy 17:16](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16 - The King's Prohibition Against Multiplying Horses"). This law prohibited kings from multiplying horses for themselves, "lest he lead the people back to Egypt." The prohibition aimed to prevent Israelite kings from relying on foreign military might or returning to the oppressive conditions of Egyptian bondage, instead fostering absolute trust in God as their ultimate protector and provider. Solomon's action, therefore, was an early sign of his subtle deviation from God's covenant instructions, foreshadowing his later, more severe spiritual compromises.

**What exactly is "linen yarn" in this context?**

Answer: The Hebrew term translated as "linen yarn" is _miqveh_ (מִקְוֵה). While its precise meaning has been debated, in this context, the KJV and many other translations understand it to refer to high-quality linen thread or fabric, a valuable luxury commodity for which Egypt was famous. Some scholars suggest it could also refer to a "string" or "company" of horses, implying a royal monopoly on the import of both horses and these goods. However, the most common and accepted interpretation is that it signifies the trade in fine Egyptian textiles, further illustrating the opulence and breadth of Solomon's international commerce.

**How does this verse contribute to the narrative of Solomon's reign in 1 Kings?**

Answer: This verse, though brief, is a crucial piece of the narrative puzzle of Solomon's reign. It highlights the pinnacle of his wealth and international influence, a direct fulfillment of God's blessing. However, by specifically mentioning the acquisition of horses from Egypt, it subtly introduces a point of tension and foreshadows his eventual spiritual decline. This seemingly minor act of disobedience, contrary to the Deuteronomic law, hints at a misplaced trust in worldly power and resources. It sets the stage for the more explicit accounts of Solomon's apostasy in [1 Kings 11](/1_kings/11 "1 Kings 11 - Solomon's Apostasy"), where his foreign wives lead him to idolatry, ultimately resulting in the division of his kingdom. Thus, 1 Kings 10:28 serves as an early indicator of the seeds of his downfall, hidden within the very description of his glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Solomon's kingdom, with its unparalleled wealth, wisdom, and military might, represented the pinnacle of an earthly kingdom, a type and shadow of the perfect, eternal reign of Christ. Yet, even at its zenith, Solomon's reign was flawed, as evidenced by his reliance on worldly power like horses from Egypt, contrary to God's command. This foreshadows the inadequacy of any human king or earthly kingdom to perfectly fulfill God's redemptive purposes. Jesus Christ, the true and greater Son of David, did not come riding on warhorses from Egypt, symbolizing earthly might, but on a humble donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of [Zechariah 9:9](/zechariah/9-9 "Zechariah 9:9 - The King Comes on a Donkey"), demonstrating a kingdom founded on humility, peace, and spiritual power. Unlike Solomon, who gradually drifted from God through accumulating wealth and foreign alliances, Christ perfectly obeyed the Father, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). His kingdom is not built on imported horses or linen yarn, but on the eternal spiritual riches of grace and truth ([Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood")). He is the true Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and the King of kings, whose reign is not limited by earthly resources or human disobedience, but is eternal and righteous, bringing true security and salvation to all who trust in Him ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")).

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

Deuteronomy 17:16

But he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt, to the end that he should multiply horses: forasmuch as the LORD hath said unto you, Ye shall henceforth return no more that way.

2 Chronicles 9:28

And they brought unto Solomon horses out of Egypt, and out of all lands.

Isaiah 31:1

¶ Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because [they are] many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!

Isaiah 31:3

Now the Egyptians [are] men, and not God; and their horses flesh, and not spirit. When the LORD shall stretch out his hand, both he that helpeth shall fall, and he that is holpen shall fall down, and they all shall fail together.

Isaiah 36:9

How then wilt thou turn away the face of one captain of the least of my master's servants, and put thy trust on Egypt for chariots and for horsemen?

Proverbs 7:16

I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved [works], with fine linen of Egypt.

2 Chronicles 1:16

And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price.