1 Kings 4:6

KJV

And Ahishar [was] over the household: and Adoniram the son of Abda [was] over the tribute.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Ahishar {H301} was over the household {H1004}: and Adoniram {H141} the son {H1121} of Abda {H5653} was over the tribute {H4522}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Achishar, in charge of the palace; Adoniram the son of 'Avda, in charge of forced labor.

Berean Standard Bible

Ahishar was in charge of the palace; and Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of the forced labor.

American Standard Version

and Ahishar was over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the men subject to taskwork.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 4:6 introduces two highly significant officials within King Solomon's burgeoning administration: Ahishar, who held the crucial position "over the household," and Adoniram, who was "over the tribute." This verse is an integral part of a broader enumeration of Solomon's chief officers, meticulously detailing the sophisticated organizational structure and specialized administrative roles that were absolutely essential for managing the vast resources, extensive building projects, and overall prosperity that characterized his expansive and golden reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a comprehensive account of King Solomon's reign, specifically highlighting his administrative acumen and economic might. It immediately follows the initial descriptions of his unparalleled wisdom and the impressive geographical extent of his kingdom, as detailed in [1 Kings 4:1-5](/1_kings/4-1-5 "1 Kings 4:1-5 - Solomon's Officials and Kingdom Extent"), which lists his princes, priests, and scribes. The subsequent introduction of Ahishar and Adoniram further elaborates on the practical, day-to-day management of the kingdom, effectively setting the stage for the monumental building projects, most notably the construction of [the Temple in Jerusalem](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - The Building of Solomon's Temple"), and the general prosperity that is vividly described later in the chapter. The efficiency, meticulous organization, and specialized roles reflected by these appointments were foundational to the remarkable stability and immense wealth Israel experienced during this unparalleled golden age.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Solomon's reign, conventionally dated from approximately 970-931 BC, represents the undisputed zenith of Israelite power, influence, and prosperity. This era was marked by ambitious and extensive building programs, burgeoning international trade networks, and the establishment of a highly sophisticated administrative system. The specific roles mentioned in this verse were not unique to Israel but were common and vital in ancient Near Eastern monarchies. The official "over the household" (Hebrew: _'al habbayit_) was a position of immense power and trust, akin to a grand vizier or chief steward, responsible for managing the king's vast personal and administrative affairs, including the royal palace, its staff, provisions, and often the royal finances. The "tribute" (Hebrew: _mas_) referred to a system of forced labor or levies imposed upon the populace, serving as a critical, though frequently unpopular, means of acquiring the necessary resources and manpower for grand royal projects. This system, while enabling Solomon's magnificent achievements, also inadvertently sowed seeds of deep-seated discontent that would tragically contribute to the kingdom's eventual division.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several pivotal themes woven throughout the broader narrative of Solomon's reign. It prominently highlights **Order and Administration**, showcasing Solomon's strategic wisdom not merely in dispensing justice but equally in effective governance, as he meticulously established a complex bureaucracy to efficiently manage the kingdom's diverse affairs. It emphasizes **Specialized Roles**, illustrating how the deliberate division of labor among highly capable officials, such as Ahishar and Adoniram, profoundly contributed to greater efficiency, expertise, and overall effectiveness, thus reflecting a remarkably well-structured and functional state. Furthermore, it touches upon **Governance and Stability**, demonstrating how a robust and well-managed administrative system served as the bedrock for the unprecedented peace and prosperity enjoyed by Israel under Solomon's rule, a period of unparalleled national strength and well-being, directly attributable to the divine blessings of [great wisdom](/1_kings/3-12 "1 Kings 3:12 - God's Gift of Wisdom to Solomon") and [immense wealth](/1_kings/10-23 "1 Kings 10:23 - Solomon's Riches and Wisdom") bestowed upon him by God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Household (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** Derived from H1004, _bayith_ literally translates to "house" or "palace." In the context of "over the household" (עַל הַבַּיִת, _'al habbayit'_), it signifies a position of profound administrative authority. This official served as the chief steward or majordomo, entrusted with the comprehensive management of the king's domestic establishment, which included the royal palace, its extensive staff, provisions, and often the king's personal finances and private affairs. It was a role demanding immense trust and wielding significant influence, effectively serving as a gatekeeper to the monarch.
* **Tribute (Hebrew, _maç'_):** From H4522, _maç_ (or _mis_) properly denotes a burden, specifically a tax in the form of forced labor, conscription, or a levy imposed for public works. This practice was ubiquitous in ancient Near Eastern empires, where subjects or conquered populations were compelled to provide labor for royal building projects, military service, or other state-sponsored endeavors. Adoniram's specific role was to meticulously organize and oversee this crucial, yet frequently burdensome, workforce for Solomon's ambitious and extensive construction initiatives.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Ahishar [was] over the household":** This clause introduces Ahishar as the principal administrator of the royal palace and the king's personal affairs. His appointment underscores the meticulous organization of Solomon's court and the paramount importance placed on the efficient management of the king's domestic and administrative functions. This role was absolutely vital for maintaining the smooth operation of the royal residence and ensuring that the king's needs and the internal affairs of the kingdom were handled with precision and discretion.
* **"and Adoniram the son of Abda [was] over the tribute":** This identifies Adoniram as the high-ranking official responsible for the forced labor or conscription system. This was a critical, albeit often unpopular, role, as it involved levying manpower and resources directly from the populace to fuel Solomon's massive building programs, which included the construction of the magnificent Temple, his own grand palace, and numerous fortresses and cities across the kingdom. Adoniram's remarkably long tenure in this demanding role, spanning multiple reigns, emphatically underscores its enduring significance and the constant demand for labor in the ancient world.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **List/Catalog** as it is an integral part of a broader enumeration of Solomon's key officials, collectively providing a comprehensive and detailed picture of his sophisticated administrative structure. There is also a clear element of **Juxtaposition**, as the verse deliberately places the administrator of the king's most personal and domestic affairs (Ahishar) directly alongside the administrator of the kingdom's public works and labor (Adoniram). This highlights the dual focus of Solomon's governance: both meticulous internal royal management and ambitious external national development. Furthermore, the mention of Adoniram carries a subtle yet powerful **Foreshadowing** for the discerning reader, as this very official later meets a violent and untimely end while attempting to collect tribute during the tumultuous reign of Solomon's son, Rehoboam. This pivotal event directly precipitates the tragic division of the united kingdom, as dramatically recorded in [1 Kings 12:18](/1_kings/12-18 "1 Kings 12:18 - Adoniram's Death and the Kingdom's Division").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The detailed enumeration of Solomon's officials, including the specific roles of Ahishar and Adoniram, subtly yet profoundly underscores a significant theological truth: God's blessing on a nation or a leader can manifest not only in spiritual wisdom and divine favor but also in the practical, tangible capacity for effective administration and orderly governance. The establishment of such an ordered and efficient kingdom under Solomon directly reflects God's own character of order, design, and providential arrangement. Even the seemingly mundane details of governance, resource management, and the allocation of labor are understood as integral parts of God's overarching plan for His people, demonstrating that good leadership, wise delegation, and effective administration are divinely ordained instruments through which His purposes can be realized on earth. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God works through human structures and responsibilities, calling for diligence, integrity, and accountability in all spheres of influence, from the grandest royal court to the simplest daily task.

* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel")
* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [Nehemiah 7:2](/nehemiah/7-2 "Nehemiah 7:2 - Appointing Faithful Administrators")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Kings 4:6 meticulously details the ancient governance of a powerful king, it offers timeless and profound principles applicable to all areas of contemporary life. It profoundly highlights the enduring importance of good leadership, the wisdom inherent in strategic delegation, and the invaluable contribution of administrative and supportive roles within any organization—be it a nation, a business, a family unit, or a local church. Solomon's unprecedented success was not solely attributable to his personal, God-given wisdom but equally to his astute ability to identify and appoint capable, trustworthy individuals to key positions. This demonstrates a fundamental truth: effective administration is an indispensable foundation for collective flourishing and sustained well-being. This verse calls us to recognize, honor, and appreciate those who serve diligently in seemingly "background" or administrative roles, understanding that their meticulousness, diligence, and integrity are absolutely crucial for the smooth and effective functioning of any endeavor. Furthermore, it challenges each of us to critically examine our own stewardship, reminding us that every responsibility, no matter how grand or humble, is a sacred opportunity to serve with diligence, integrity, and accountability, thereby contributing meaningfully to the overall health and well-being of the body, whatever that body may be.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse challenge our perception of "important" roles within a community or organization, highlighting the often-underestimated value of administrative and supportive functions?**
* **In what practical ways can we apply the principles of wise delegation and effective administration within our own spheres of influence, whether in our families, workplaces, or ministries?**
* **How does the concept of "stewardship" relate to our daily responsibilities, emphasizing the profound need for diligence, integrity, and accountability in all our tasks, big or small?**

### FAQ
**Why are these specific officials, Ahishar and Adoniram, mentioned in such detail?**

Answer: Ahishar and Adoniram are specifically mentioned because they represent two distinct yet equally crucial facets of King Solomon's highly organized and expanding administration. Their inclusion underscores the sheer scale and complexity of his reign. Ahishar, as the one "over the household," held a position of immense trust and influence, managing the royal palace and the king's personal affairs, which ensured the smooth internal functioning and prestige of the monarchy. Adoniram, on the other hand, was "over the tribute," meaning he was responsible for organizing and overseeing the forced labor or conscription (the _mas_) that formed the backbone of Solomon's ambitious and extensive building projects, including the magnificent [Temple in Jerusalem](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - The Building of Solomon's Temple") and his own grand palace. Their specific mention highlights the sophisticated bureaucracy required to manage such a prosperous and ambitious kingdom, demonstrating Solomon's administrative genius in delegating critical responsibilities.

**Is Adoniram mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, and what is his significance?**

Answer: Yes, Adoniram (also known as Adoram or Hadoram in various biblical texts) is a remarkably significant figure due to his exceptionally long tenure, serving not only under King Solomon but also under King David before him, and briefly under Solomon's son, King Rehoboam. He is most famously and tragically mentioned in [1 Kings 12:18](/1_kings/12-18 "1 Kings 12:18 - Adoniram's Death and the Kingdom's Division"), where he is stoned to death by the rebellious Israelites in Shechem while attempting to collect tribute from them during the early, tumultuous days of Rehoboam's reign. This violent event is a pivotal moment that directly precipitates the permanent division of the united kingdom of Israel into two separate entities: the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. His long service, even under David (as seen in [2 Samuel 20:24](/2_samuel/20-24 "2 Samuel 20:24 - Adoram under David")), powerfully highlights the continuity and crucial nature of this administrative role across generations, while also underscoring the deep-seated resentment and popular discontent that the "tribute" system often generated among the populace.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Kings 4:6 meticulously details the administrative wisdom and ordered kingdom of Solomon, it ultimately points beyond this earthly, albeit magnificent, king to Christ, the true and eternal King, whose reign is perfect and everlasting. Solomon's establishment of a sophisticated administration, with officials like Ahishar overseeing the royal household and Adoniram managing the kingdom's resources through tribute, serves as a profound foreshadowing of Christ's perfect and eternal reign. Jesus is the ultimate "master of the household," not merely a physical palace or earthly kingdom, but the very house of God, which is His church and the entirety of creation (cf. [Hebrews 3:6](/hebrews/3-6 "Hebrews 3:6 - Christ as Son Over His House")). He perfectly oversees all things, bringing divine order, unparalleled wisdom, and ultimate authority to His spiritual kingdom. Unlike the often burdensome "tribute" of human kings that relied on forced labor and levies, Christ's kingdom is built upon a willing service, a "tribute" of love, faith, and voluntary submission from His redeemed people (cf. [Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Christ's Easy Yoke")). His rule brings not the temporary prosperity and eventual division seen in Solomon's kingdom, but eternal peace, true justice, and an everlasting unity that transcends all earthly boundaries, fulfilling the ancient promise of a perfect King whose dominion knows no end (cf. [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")). The order, peace, and administrative excellence of Solomon's reign, though a remarkable earthly type, ultimately finds its perfect and enduring reality in the person and sovereign reign of Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Kings 9:15

¶ And this [is] the reason of the levy which king Solomon raised; for to build the house of the LORD, and his own house, and Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.

1 Kings 12:18

Then king Rehoboam sent Adoram, who [was] over the tribute; and all Israel stoned him with stones, that he died. Therefore king Rehoboam made speed to get him up to his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem.

2 Samuel 20:24

And Adoram [was] over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud [was] recorder:

1 Kings 5:13

And king Solomon raised a levy out of all Israel; and the levy was thirty thousand men.

1 Kings 5:14

And he sent them to Lebanon, ten thousand a month by courses: a month they were in Lebanon, [and] two months at home: and Adoniram [was] over the levy.