1 Kings 4:1

¶ So king Solomon was king over all Israel.

So king {H4428} Solomon {H8010} was king {H4428} over all Israel {H3478}.

King Shlomo was king over all Isra'el,

So King Solomon ruled over Israel,

And king Solomon was king over all Israel.

Commentary

1 Kings 4:1 serves as a concise summary statement, marking the established and undisputed reign of King Solomon over the unified kingdom of Israel. This verse transitions the narrative from Solomon's consolidation of power and his divinely granted wisdom to a detailed account of his prosperous and expansive administration.

Historical and Cultural Context

Following the death of his father, King David, Solomon faced initial challenges to his throne. However, through strategic actions and divine favor, he successfully eliminated rivals and secured his position. This verse signifies the culmination of those efforts, presenting Solomon as the undisputed monarch. His reign represents the golden age of the united monarchy, a period of unprecedented peace, wealth, and influence for Israel, largely due to Solomon's profound wisdom granted by God.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Consolidation of Power: The phrase "king over all Israel" emphasizes Solomon's complete authority and the successful establishment of his rule, bringing stability after a period of transition.
  • Unified Kingdom: This verse highlights the rare and significant achievement of a truly unified Israel, extending across its traditional tribal territories. This unity was a hallmark of Solomon's early reign before later divisions.
  • Divine Blessing and Fulfillment: Solomon's secure throne is a testament to God's faithfulness, fulfilling promises made to David regarding his lineage and a lasting kingdom. The peace and prosperity described in subsequent verses flow directly from this established leadership.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV's introductory "¶ So" or "And so" (from the Hebrew waw connective) functions as a consequential or summarizing conjunction. It indicates that Solomon's established reign is a direct result of the preceding events—his succession, his strategic handling of opposition, and especially his divinely endowed wisdom and favor. The phrase "all Israel" (Hebrew: kol Yisrael) underscores the comprehensive nature of his dominion, encompassing all twelve tribes.

Practical Application

This simple declaration about Solomon's reign offers several insights for believers today:

  • The Importance of Established Leadership: A secure and wise leader can bring about periods of peace and prosperity, reflecting God's order.
  • God's Faithfulness: Just as God was faithful to His promises to David concerning his successor, He remains faithful to His promises to us.
  • The Blessings of Unity: Solomon's reign saw a united Israel, demonstrating the strength and blessing that come from cohesion and shared purpose under God's guidance.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 12:19 (2 votes)

    So Israel rebelled against the house of David unto this day.

  • 1 Kings 12:20 (2 votes)

    And it came to pass, when all Israel heard that Jeroboam was come again, that they sent and called him unto the congregation, and made him king over all Israel: there was none that followed the house of David, but the tribe of Judah only.

  • 2 Samuel 5:5 (2 votes)

    In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years over all Israel and Judah.

  • 1 Chronicles 12:38 (2 votes)

    All these men of war, that could keep rank, came with a perfect heart to Hebron, to make David king over all Israel: and all the rest also of Israel [were] of one heart to make David king.

  • Ecclesiastes 1:12 (2 votes)

    ¶ I the Preacher was king over Israel in Jerusalem.

  • 1 Kings 11:35 (2 votes)

    But I will take the kingdom out of his son's hand, and will give it unto thee, [even] ten tribes.

  • 1 Kings 11:36 (2 votes)

    And unto his son will I give one tribe, that David my servant may have a light alway before me in Jerusalem, the city which I have chosen me to put my name there.