1 Kings 4:24

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.

For he had dominion {H7287} over all the region on this side {H5676} the river {H5104}, from Tiphsah {H8607} even to Azzah {H5804}, over all the kings {H4428} on this side {H5676} the river {H5104}: and he had peace {H7965} on all sides {H5650}{H5676} round about {H5439} him.

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.

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.

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.

Commentary

1 Kings 4:24 describes the immense scope and tranquility of King Solomon's dominion, marking a golden age for ancient Israel. This verse highlights the fulfillment of divine promises concerning the land and the unprecedented peace enjoyed during his reign, a stark contrast to the constant warfare of previous eras.

Context of Solomon's Reign

This verse is part of a larger section (1 Kings 4:20-34) detailing the prosperity, wisdom, and administrative prowess of King Solomon. His reign followed that of his father, David, who had largely established the kingdom through military conquest. Solomon, blessed with divine wisdom, was able to consolidate power and extend Israel's influence far beyond its traditional borders. The geographical extent mentioned in this verse—"from Tiphsah even to Azzah"—encompassed a vast and strategic region, stretching from the Euphrates River (Tiphsah) in the northeast down to Gaza (Azzah) on the Mediterranean coast, effectively controlling major trade routes.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Vast Dominion and Influence: Solomon's kingdom was not merely a small tribal nation but a significant regional power. His rule "over all the kings on this side the river" implies that surrounding kingdoms paid tribute or acknowledged his suzerainty, signifying a period of unparalleled political and economic strength for Israel. This expansion was a partial fulfillment of the land promises made to Abraham in Genesis 15:18.
  • Unprecedented Peace (Shalom): The phrase "he had peace on all sides round about him" is central to understanding Solomon's reign. Unlike David, who was a man of war, Solomon's time was characterized by stability and an absence of external threats. This divinely granted peace allowed for immense construction projects, economic prosperity, and the flourishing of arts and wisdom within Israel. It was a period of rest and security, a blessing promised to those who follow God's commands.
  • Divine Blessing and Fulfillment: Solomon's peaceful and expansive reign was a direct result of God's favor and a testament to His faithfulness to the covenants made with Abraham and David. God had promised David that his son would be a man of rest, and Solomon's name itself (from Hebrew shalom) reflects this theme of peace.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "peace" used here is shalom (שָׁלוֹם). While it certainly means an absence of war, shalom is a much richer concept. It encompasses wholeness, completeness, well-being, prosperity, and security. Thus, Solomon's peace was not merely the absence of conflict but a comprehensive state of flourishing and stability, a holistic blessing from God.

Practical Application

The account of Solomon's peaceful and prosperous reign offers several lessons for today:

  • The Value of Peace: This verse reminds us of the immense blessing of peace, both nationally and personally. A state of true shalom allows for growth, development, and a focus on higher pursuits.
  • God's Faithfulness: Solomon's reign was a demonstration of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. Even when circumstances seem dire, God's word stands firm and will ultimately be fulfilled.
  • Wisdom and Blessing: Solomon's peace and dominion were linked to his divinely granted wisdom. Seeking God's wisdom is foundational for true prosperity and stability in our lives.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 22:9 (6 votes)

    Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days.

  • Psalms 72:11 (4 votes)

    Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him.

  • Genesis 10:19 (3 votes)

    And the border of the Canaanites was from Sidon, as thou comest to Gerar, unto Gaza; as thou goest, unto Sodom, and Gomorrah, and Admah, and Zeboim, even unto Lasha.

  • 1 Kings 5:4 (2 votes)

    But now the LORD my God hath given me rest on every side, [so that there is] neither adversary nor evil occurrent.

  • Isaiah 9:7 (2 votes)

    Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

  • Judges 16:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then went Samson to Gaza, and saw there an harlot, and went in unto her.

  • Luke 2:14 (2 votes)

    Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.