1 Kings 4:22

And Solomon's provision for one day was thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal,

And Solomon's {H8010} provision {H3899} for one {H259} day {H3117} was thirty {H7970} measures {H3734} of fine flour {H5560}, and threescore {H8346} measures {H3734} of meal {H7058},

Shlomo's provisions for one day consisted of 150 bushels of fine flour, 310 bushels of meal,

Solomon’s provisions for a single day were thirty cors of fine flour, sixty cors of meal,

And Solomon’s provision for one day was thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal,

Commentary

1 Kings 4:22 provides a vivid snapshot of the immense scale of King Solomon's daily provisions, illustrating the unprecedented wealth and grandeur of his reign. This verse states, "And Solomon's provision for one day was thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal."

Context of Solomon's Reign

This verse is found within a detailed description of Solomon's kingdom and administration, immediately following an account of his vast dominion and the peace he enjoyed on all sides (1 Kings 4:21). The preceding verses highlight his unparalleled wisdom and the immense size of his administrative structure, which required substantial resources. This daily provision speaks not only to the needs of his immediate household but also to the vast number of officials, servants, guests, and possibly even the royal cavalry and their animals, all sustained by the king's treasury.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Abundance and Prosperity: The sheer quantity of food listed—ninety measures in total for a single day—underscores the extraordinary abundance that characterized Solomon's kingdom. This was a tangible sign of God's blessing upon Israel and its king, fulfilling promises of prosperity for obedience.
  • Royal Grandeur and Magnificence: Such lavish daily provision was a hallmark of a powerful and wealthy monarch in the ancient world. It projected an image of Solomon's immense power, prestige, and the stability of his reign, drawing admiration and tribute from surrounding nations.
  • Divine Blessing and Fulfillment: This prosperity is a direct outcome of God's favor and the fulfillment of promises made to Solomon and his father, David. God had promised Solomon not only wisdom but also riches and honor (1 Kings 3:13), and this verse demonstrates that promise being brought to fruition.

Linguistic Insights

The term "measures" in this verse translates the Hebrew word cor (or kor), a significant unit of dry capacity in ancient Israel. One cor was approximately 220 liters (or about 6.25 bushels). Therefore, "thirty measures of fine flour" equates to roughly 6,600 liters of fine flour, and "threescore (sixty) measures of meal" amounts to about 13,200 liters of meal. In total, nearly 20,000 liters of grain were required daily. "Fine flour" (solet) would have been highly refined, used for the king's table and offerings, while "meal" (qemach) likely refers to coarser flour, suitable for more general consumption.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us of several enduring principles. Firstly, it highlights God's capacity for abundant provision when His people walk in obedience and wisdom. Solomon's wealth was not merely earthly acquisition but a divine gift. Secondly, it underscores the responsibilities that come with great resources and leadership. Solomon's administration was charged with managing and distributing this vast supply, reflecting the need for wise stewardship. Finally, while earthly abundance can be a blessing, the narrative of Solomon's later life also serves as a subtle reminder that even immense prosperity does not guarantee lasting spiritual faithfulness or ultimate satisfaction.

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.