1 Kings 4:14

Ahinadab the son of Iddo [had] Mahanaim:

Ahinadab {H292} the son {H1121} of Iddo {H5714} had Mahanaim {H4266}:

Achinadav the son of 'Iddo, in Machanayim;

Ahinadab son of Iddo in Mahanaim;

Ahinadab the son of Iddo, in Mahanaim;

Commentary

1 Kings 4:14 is part of a detailed administrative record, specifically listing one of King Solomon's twelve district officers and the territory under his charge during the golden age of his reign.

Context of 1 Kings 4:14

This verse appears within a chapter that describes the highly organized and prosperous kingdom of King Solomon. After establishing his chief officials, the text transitions to detailing the twelve regional officers responsible for providing sustenance for the king and his vast household throughout the year. Each officer was responsible for one month's provisions. Ahinadab, son of Iddo, was assigned the district of Mahanaim, a strategically important city located east of the Jordan River.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Order and Efficiency: The meticulous listing of officers and their districts highlights Solomon's impressive administrative capabilities and the sophisticated structure of his government. This system ensured a steady and reliable supply chain for the royal court.
  • Prosperity and Abundance: The very existence of such a well-oiled provisioning system underscores the peace and abundance that characterized Solomon's reign, fulfilling God's promises of blessing for obedience.
  • Centralized Authority: These officers reported directly to the king, demonstrating Solomon's firm control and the centralized nature of his power over the entire Israelite kingdom, including the Transjordan region where Mahanaim was located.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Ahinadab the son of Iddo [had] Mahanaim" is quite direct. The Hebrew verb implies he "was in charge of," "was over," or "controlled" the district of Mahanaim. It concisely defines his administrative jurisdiction and responsibility within Solomon's elaborate system of governance.

Historical Significance of Mahanaim

Mahanaim itself holds significant biblical history. It was the place where Jacob encountered angels upon his return to Canaan (Genesis 32:2), and later served as a refuge for King David during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 17:24). Its inclusion in Solomon's administrative divisions shows the extent of his organized control over the entire Israelite territory.

Practical Application

While seemingly a simple detail, this verse illustrates the importance of good organization, delegation, and responsible administration in any large undertaking, whether secular or spiritual. It reminds us that even in periods of great blessing and prosperity, diligent planning and execution are essential for maintaining order and achieving goals. For believers, it can be a subtle reminder of God's orderliness and His provision for His people through structured means.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Joshua 13:26 (2 votes)

    And from Heshbon unto Ramathmizpeh, and Betonim; and from Mahanaim unto the border of Debir;

  • 2 Samuel 17:24 (2 votes)

    Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him.

  • Genesis 32:2 (2 votes)

    And when Jacob saw them, he said, This [is] God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim.

  • 2 Samuel 2:8 (2 votes)

    ¶ But Abner the son of Ner, captain of Saul's host, took Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and brought him over to Mahanaim;

  • 2 Samuel 17:27 (2 votes)

    And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,