TRV
Translation
King James Version
For he had dominion over all the region on this side the river, from Tiphsah even to Azzah, over all the kings on this side the river: and he had peace on all sides round about him.
Complete Jewish Bible
For he ruled all the area this side of the [Euphrates] River, from Tifsach to 'Azah. He was over all the kings on this side of the River; and he had peace all around him, on every side.
Berean Standard Bible
For Solomon had dominion over everything west of the Euphrates—over all the kingdoms from Tiphsah to Gaza—and he had peace on all sides.
American Standard Version
For he had dominion over all the region on this side the River, from Tiphsah even to Gaza, over all the kings on this side the River: and he had peace on all sides round about him.
World English Bible Messianic
For he had dominion over all on this side the River, from Tiphsah even to Gaza, over all the kings on this side the River: and he had peace on all sides around him.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For he ruled in all the region on the other side of the Riuer, from Tiphsah euen vnto Azzah, ouer all the Kings on the other side the Riuer: and he had peace round about him on euery side.
Young's Literal Translation
for he is ruling over all beyond the river, from Tiphsah and unto Gaza, over all the kings beyond the river, and he hath peace from all his servants round about.
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In the KJVVerse 8,869 of 31,102
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Commentary on 1 Kings 4 verses 20–28
20 ¶ Judah and Israel were many, as the sand which is by the sea in multitude, eating and drinking, and making merry.
21 And Solomon reigned over all kingdoms from the river unto the land of the Philistines, and unto the border of Egypt: they brought presents, and served Solomon all the days of his life.
22 And Solomon's provision for one day was thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal,
23 Ten fat oxen, and twenty oxen out of the pastures, and an hundred sheep, beside harts, and roebucks, and fallowdeer, and fatted fowl.
24 For he had dominion over all the region on this side the river, from Tiphsah even to Azzah, over all the kings on this side the river: and he had peace on all sides round about him.
25 And Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, from Dan even to Beersheba, all the days of Solomon.
26 And Solomon had forty thousand stalls of horses for his chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen.
27 And those officers provided victual for king Solomon, and for all that came unto king Solomon's table, every man in his month: they lacked nothing.
28 Barley also and straw for the horses and dromedaries brought they unto the place where the officers were, every man according to his charge.
Such a kingdom, and such a court, surely never any prince had, as Solomon's are here described to be.
I. Such a kingdom. Never did the crown of Israel shine so brightly as it did when Solomon wore it, never in his father's days, never in the days of any of his successors; nor was that kingdom ever so glorious a type of the kingdom of the Messiah as it was then. The account here given of it is such as fully answers the prophecies which we have concerning it in Ps. 72, which is a psalm for Solomon, but with reference to Christ. 1. The territories of his kingdom were large and its tributaries many; so it was foretold that he should have dominion from sea to sea, Psa 72:8-11. Solomon reigned not only over all Israel, who were his subjects by choice, but over all the neighbouring kingdoms, who were his subjects by constraint. All the princes from the river Euphrates, north-east to the border of Egypt south-west, not only added to his honour by doing him homage and holding their crowns from him, but added to his wealth by serving him, and bringing him presents, Kg1 4:21. David, by his successful wars, compelled them to this subjection, and Solomon, by his admirable wisdom, made it easy and reasonable; for it is fit that the fool should be servant to the wise in heart. If they gave him presents, he gave them instructions, and still taught the people knowledge, not only his own people, but those of other nations: and wisdom is better than gold. He had peace on all sides, Kg1 4:24. None of all the nations that were subject to him offered to shake off his yoke, or to give him any disturbance, but rather thought themselves happy in their dependence upon him. Herein his kingdom typified the Messiah's; for to him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance and that princes shall worship him, Isa 49:6, Isa 49:7; Isa 53:12. 2. The subjects of his kingdom and its inhabitants, were many and cheerful. (1.) They were numerous and country was exceedingly populous (Kg1 4:20): Judah and Israel were many, and that good land was sufficient to maintain them all. They were as the sand of the sea in multitude. Now was fulfilled the promise made to Abraham concerning the increase of his seed (Gen 22:17), as well as that concerning the extent of their dominion, Gen 15:18. This was their strength and beauty, the honour of their prince, the terror of their enemies, and an advancement of the wealth of the nation. If they grew so numerous that the place was any where too strait for them, they might remove with advantage into the countries that were subject to them. God's spiritual Israel are many, at least they will be so when they come all together, Rev 7:9. (2.) They were easy, they dwelt safely, or with confidence and assurance (Kg1 4:25), not jealous of their king or of his officers, not disaffected either to him or one to another, nor under any apprehension or danger from enemies foreign or domestic. They were happy and knew it, safe and willing to think themselves so. They dwelt every man under his vine and fig-tree. Solomon invaded no man's property, took not to himself their vineyards and olive-yards, as sometimes was the manner of the king (Sa1 8:14), but what they had they could call their own: he protected every man in the possession and enjoyment of his property. Those that had vines and fig-trees ate the fruit of them themselves; and so great was the peace of the country that they might, if they pleased, dwell as safely under the shadow of them as within the walls of a city. Or, because it was usual to have vines by the sides of their houses (Psa 128:3), they are said to dwell under their vines. (3.) They were cheerful in the use of their plenty, eating and drinking, and making merry, Kg1 4:20. Solomon did not only keep a good table himself, but enabled all his subjects, according to their rank, to do so too, and taught them that God gave them their abundance that they might use it soberly and pleasantly, not that they might hoard it up. There is nothing better than for a man to eat the labour of his hands (Ecc 2:24), and that with a merry heart, Ecc 9:7. His father, in the Psalms, had led his people into the comforts of communion with God, and now he led them into the comfortable use of the good things of this life. This pleasant posture of Israel's affairs extended, in place, from Dan to Beer-sheba - no part of the country was exposed nor upon any account uneasy; and it continued a long time, all the days of Solomon, without any material interruption. Go where you would, you might see all the marks of plenty, peace, and satisfaction. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus were typified by this. The kingdom of God is not, as Solomon's was, meat and drink, but, what is infinitely better, righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
II. Such a court Solomon kept as can scarcely be paralleled. We may guess at the vast number of his attendants, and the great resort there was to him, by the provision that was made daily for his table. Of bread there were so many measures of flour and meal as, it is computed, would richly serve 3000 men (Carellus computes above 4800 men), and the provision of flesh (Kg1 4:23) was rather more in proportion. What vast quantities were here of beef, mutton, and venison, and the choicest of all fatted things, as some read that which we translate fatted fowl! Ahasuerus, once in his reign, made a great feast, to show the riches of his kingdom, Est 1:3, Est 1:4. But it was much more the honour of Solomon that he kept a constant table and a very noble one, not of dainties or deceitful meats (he himself witnessed against them, Pro 23:3), but substantial food, for the entertainment of those who came to hear his wisdom. Thus Christ fed those whom he taught, 5000 at a time, more than ever Solomon's table would entertain at once: and all believers have in him a continual feast. Herein he far outdoes Solomon, that he feeds all his subjects, not with the bread that perishes, but with that which endures to eternal life. It added much both to the strength and glory of Solomon's kingdom that he had such abundance of horses, 40,000 for chariots and 12,000 for his troops, 1000 horse, perhaps, in every tribe, for the preserving of the public peace, Kg1 4:26. God had commanded that their king should not multiply horses (Deu 17:16), nor, according to the account here given, considering the extent and wealth of Solomon's kingdom, did he multiply horses in proportion to his neighbours; for we find even the Philistines bringing into the field 30,000 chariots (Sa1 13:5) and the Syrians at least 40,000 horse, Sa2 10:18. The same officers that provided for his house provided also for his stable, Kg1 4:27, Kg1 4:28. Every one knew his place, and work, and time; and so this great court was kept without confusion. Solomon, that had vast incomes, lived at a vast expense, and perhaps wrote that with application to himself, Ecc 5:11. When goods increase those are increased that eat them; and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes, unless withal they have the satisfaction of doing good with them?
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 20–28. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
1 Kings 4:24 vividly portrays the unparalleled zenith of King Solomon's reign, illustrating a period of immense territorial dominion and comprehensive peace for ancient Israel. This verse encapsulates the tangible fulfillment of divine promises regarding the land and the unprecedented tranquility that characterized his rule, marking a golden age of stability, prosperity, and flourishing that stood in stark contrast to the preceding era of constant conflict and tribal fragmentation.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey the unparalleled magnitude and blessed nature of Solomon's reign. Merism is prominently evident in the phrase "from Tiphsah even to Azzah," which ingeniously uses two extreme geographical points to represent the entire intervening territory, thereby emphasizing the vast and comprehensive nature of his dominion. The description of his rule "over all the kings on this side the river" may contain an element of hyperbole, a common rhetorical feature in ancient Near Eastern royal inscriptions, used to underscore the unparalleled extent of his influence and authority, even if not every single ruler was directly subjugated. There is also an implicit contrast with the preceding era of David's reign, which was perpetually marked by relentless warfare and conflict, highlighting Solomon's unique and divinely granted blessing of profound peace. Finally, the entire description serves as a powerful symbol of the ideal, God-blessed kingdom, where peace and prosperity are the direct and tangible results of divine favor, wisdom, and covenant faithfulness.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 4:24 stands as a powerful and tangible testament to God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to both Abraham and David. Solomon's vast dominion and profound peace represent a concrete, albeit temporary and imperfect, realization of the divine vision for Israel as a blessed nation, secure in its promised land and respected by its neighbors. This period of shalom was not merely a political or military achievement but a profound divine gift, demonstrating God's deep desire for His people to live in a state of rest, security, and prosperity when they walk in obedience to His commands. It serves as a significant foreshadowing of a greater, more enduring peace and universal dominion that God ultimately intends for His eternal kingdom, perfectly realized in the person and reign of the Messiah.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of Solomon's peaceful and prosperous reign in 1 Kings 4:24 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that true peace, shalom, is a comprehensive state of well-being that extends far beyond the mere absence of conflict, encompassing spiritual, social, emotional, and physical flourishing. This verse calls us to recognize peace as a divine blessing and a gift to be actively pursued and cultivated in our personal lives, families, churches, and communities, understanding that such an environment is uniquely conducive to spiritual growth, the acquisition of wisdom, and deeper communion with God. Furthermore, Solomon's reign stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances seem challenging or impossible. Just as God brought about an era of unprecedented peace and dominion for ancient Israel, He continues to work in our lives today, faithfully fulfilling His word and demonstrating His steadfast love and covenant loyalty, encouraging us to trust in His sovereign plan.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Was Solomon's kingdom truly that large, encompassing "all the kings on this side the river"?
Answer: The biblical description of Solomon's dominion in 1 Kings 4:24, stretching "from Tiphsah even to Azzah" and ruling "over all the kings on this side the river," indeed depicts the largest extent of Israel's influence in its history. While it signifies a vast sphere of political and economic influence and acknowledged suzerainty, it does not necessarily imply direct administrative control over every single territory or city-state within that expansive geographical span. Rather, it indicates that surrounding kingdoms paid tribute, formed strategic alliances, or were otherwise subservient to Solomon's paramount authority, thereby establishing Israel as the dominant regional power. This remarkable period was a significant, albeit temporary, fulfillment of the land promises made to Abraham in Genesis 15:18, which spoke of dominion extending from the "river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates."
How did Solomon achieve such widespread peace when his father David was a renowned warrior king?
Answer: Solomon's unprecedented peace was a remarkable combination of divine blessing and astute, strategic leadership. Firstly, it was a direct fulfillment of God's promise to David that his son would be a "man of rest" (1 Chronicles 22:9). God explicitly granted Solomon extraordinary wisdom (1 Kings 3:12), which he applied not only in discerning judgment but also in shrewd diplomacy and efficient administration. Solomon strategically built up Israel's military strength and fortified key cities (1 Kings 9:15-19), effectively deterring potential aggressors. He also engaged in extensive international trade and formed crucial political alliances through strategic marriages, such as with the daughter of Pharaoh (1 Kings 3:1), which significantly stabilized the region. The preceding conquests of David had largely subdued Israel's immediate enemies, creating a power vacuum that Solomon was able to fill with his diplomatic prowess and economic might, thereby ushering in a period of unparalleled shalom.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Solomon's reign, as magnificently described in 1 Kings 4:24, serves as a profound type and shadow of the ultimate, perfect, and eternal kingdom of Jesus Christ. While Solomon's dominion was vast and impressive, it was inherently earthly, temporary, and ultimately flawed, eventually succumbing to division and decline. In stark contrast, Jesus, the true "Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6), establishes a kingdom that is eternal, universal, and righteous, extending "from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth" (Psalm 72:8). The geopolitical peace Solomon enjoyed was a temporal blessing, but Christ offers a spiritual and eternal shalom that transcends all earthly circumstances, a profound peace that the world cannot give or take away (John 14:27). Furthermore, Solomon's renowned wisdom, though divinely granted, pales in comparison to Christ, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3). The ideal kingdom of peace and prosperity under Solomon points forward to the perfect, everlasting reign of Christ, who truly fulfills the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants, establishing a kingdom that will have no end (Luke 1:32-33). He is the true and ultimate King who brings perfect rest, complete wholeness, and eternal salvation to all who believe in Him.