1 Kings 5:1

Translation
King James Version
¶ And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon; for he had heard that they had anointed him king in the room of his father: for Hiram was ever a lover of David.
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KJV (with Strong's)
And Hiram H2438 king H4428 of Tyre H6865 sent H7971 his servants H5650 unto Solomon H8010; for he had heard H8085 that they had anointed H4886 him king H4428 in the room of his father H1: for Hiram H2438 was ever H3117 a lover H157 of David H1732.
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Complete Jewish Bible
Hiram king of Tzor sent his servants to Shlomo, because he had heard that they had anointed him king in his father's place, and Hiram had always loved David.
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Berean Standard Bible
Now when Hiram king of Tyre heard that Solomon had been anointed king in his father’s place, he sent envoys to Solomon; for Hiram had always been a friend of David.
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American Standard Version
And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon; for he had heard that they had anointed him king in the room of his father: for Hiram was ever a lover of David.
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World English Bible Messianic
Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants to Solomon; for he had heard that they had anointed him king in the place of his father: for Hiram was ever a lover of David.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
And Hiram King of Tyrus sent his seruants vnto Salomon, (for he had heard, that they had anoynted him King in the roume of his father) because Hiram had euer loued Dauid.
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Young's Literal Translation
And Hiram king of Tyre sendeth his servants unto Solomon, for he heard that they had anointed him for king instead of his father, for Hiram was a lover of David all the days;
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See also
1 Chronicles 14:12 Chronicles 2:32 Samuel 5:111 Kings 5:10Psalms 45:12Amos 1:91 Kings 9:12
See on the biblical-era map
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of Solomon
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of Solomon View full PDF
The Construction of Solomon’s Temple
The Construction of Solomon’s Temple View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 8,880 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Kings 5:1 inaugurates a pivotal diplomatic relationship between King Solomon of Israel and King Hiram of Tyre, marking the commencement of Solomon's reign with a crucial international alliance. This verse lays the groundwork for extensive cooperation between these two powerful kingdoms, essential for the monumental undertaking of constructing the Temple in Jerusalem. Hiram's swift recognition of Solomon's ascension, deeply rooted in his enduring affection and loyalty for Solomon's father, David, highlights the continuity of a vital partnership that would prove indispensable for Israel's most significant national and spiritual project.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse immediately follows the detailed accounts of Solomon's consolidation of power, including the suppression of Adonijah's rebellion, the decisive actions against Joab and Shimei, and the establishment of his administrative structure (1 Kings 2-4). Having secured his throne and demonstrated his divinely-granted wisdom, notably in the famous judgment of the two prostitutes found in 1 Kings 3:16-28, Solomon is now poised to fulfill his father David's long-cherished desire to build a permanent house for the Lord. 1 Kings 5:1 thus serves as a crucial narrative bridge, transitioning the focus from the internal affairs and political stability of Solomon's early reign to the grand, international project of the Temple construction, which will dominate the subsequent chapters of 1 Kings.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city-state located to Israel's north, was a major maritime and commercial power in the ancient Near East. The Phoenicians were renowned for their seafaring, extensive trade networks, and unparalleled craftsmanship, particularly in timber (cedar from the forests of Lebanon) and metallurgy. Alliances between kings were common and vital for economic stability, military security, and access to specialized resources not available domestically. The act of sending servants or envoys to acknowledge a new king's ascension was a standard diplomatic protocol, signifying recognition of legitimacy and an intent to maintain or forge friendly relations. The phrase "anointed him king" refers to the sacred ritual of pouring oil on the head of a new monarch, a practice that symbolized divine selection and empowerment, widely understood in the region as bestowing legitimate authority, even by non-Israelite rulers like Hiram.
  • Key Themes: 1 Kings 5:1 highlights several significant themes. Firstly, it underscores the theme of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's promises, as God had promised David that his son would build the Temple (2 Samuel 7:12-13). Hiram's immediate overture demonstrates God's orchestration of international relations to facilitate His redemptive purposes. Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of wise diplomacy and international cooperation. Solomon's reign, characterized by unprecedented peace and prosperity, was significantly aided by such strategic alliances. Thirdly, the verse showcases the legacy and continuity of leadership. Hiram's status as a "lover of David" ensures that the strong, beneficial relationship forged by the father is seamlessly transferred to the son, providing stability and crucial resources for the next generation's endeavors, especially the monumental task of building the Temple.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Hiram (Hebrew, Chîyrâm', H2438): The king of Tyre, a powerful Phoenician city-state. Hiram's name is significant as he is consistently portrayed in biblical texts (1 Kings, 2 Chronicles) as a crucial ally and supplier of resources and skilled labor for both David's palace and Solomon's Temple. His proactive outreach to Solomon demonstrates his political acumen and the importance of the long-standing alliance between Tyre and Israel.
  • anointed (Hebrew, mâshach', H4886): This verb signifies the sacred act of rubbing or pouring oil over someone's head, designating them for a special office, particularly that of king or priest. For Hiram to have "heard that they had anointed him king" indicates not merely a change of leadership, but an understanding that Solomon's kingship was divinely sanctioned and thus legitimate in the eyes of the people and, by extension, neighboring nations. This recognition was key to establishing stable diplomatic relations.
  • lover (Hebrew, ʼâhab', H157): This term, derived from the primitive root "to have affection for," denotes a deep affection, friendship, or loyal alliance. In the context of ancient Near Eastern diplomacy, it often implied a covenantal relationship or a strong, mutually beneficial bond. Hiram was not just an acquaintance of David but a committed ally, suggesting a history of trust, shared interests, and perhaps even formal treaties that extended beyond personal sentiment to national policy.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon;": This opening clause immediately establishes the key players and the diplomatic initiative. Hiram, as the sovereign ruler of Tyre, takes the first step in acknowledging Solomon's new reign, indicating respect and a desire to continue or establish good relations. The sending of "servants" (likely high-ranking envoys or ambassadors) was the formal method of interstate communication, signifying the importance of the message and the sender.
  • "for he had heard that they had anointed him king in the room of his father:": This explains the immediate reason for Hiram's action. The news of Solomon's anointing—a public, divinely sanctioned act of investiture—had reached Tyre. This implies Hiram's recognition of Solomon's legitimate succession and the stability of the Israelite throne, making it a reliable partner for continued alliance. Hiram's intelligence network was clearly efficient, demonstrating the interconnectedness of ancient Near Eastern kingdoms.
  • "for Hiram was ever a lover of David.": This final clause provides the underlying, deeper motivation and historical context for Hiram's immediate recognition of Solomon. The strong, enduring bond between Hiram and David (evidenced in 2 Samuel 5:11) ensured a smooth transition of this vital alliance to the next generation. This personal loyalty and established friendship were foundational for the immense collaborative projects that would soon follow, particularly the Temple construction.

Literary Devices

The verse employs Foreshadowing by subtly hinting at the extensive cooperation between Hiram and Solomon that will be detailed in the subsequent verses regarding the Temple construction. Hiram's immediate overture, rooted in his past relationship with David, sets the stage for the provision of crucial resources and skilled labor that Israel would need. The repetition of the theme of Hiram's loyalty ("Hiram was ever a lover of David") serves as a form of Emphasis, underscoring the deep and enduring nature of this international bond, which is presented as a key enabler for Solomon's reign. There is also an element of Irony in a powerful pagan king playing a pivotal role in facilitating the building of the Temple for Yahweh, the God of Israel, highlighting God's sovereign use of all people and nations, even those outside the covenant, to accomplish His divine purposes.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Kings 5:1 profoundly illustrates God's providential hand in preparing the way for the fulfillment of His promises. David had desired to build a house for the Lord, but it was deferred to his son, Solomon (2 Samuel 7:12-13). This verse shows how God orchestrated seemingly secular political relationships to achieve His sacred ends. Hiram's long-standing friendship with David, and his subsequent recognition of Solomon, ensured that the necessary resources and expertise for the Temple would be readily available. It teaches us that God works not only through direct miraculous intervention but also through the natural course of human relationships, diplomacy, and the established order of nations. The continuity of this alliance from father to son also speaks to the importance of legacy and building upon the foundations laid by previous generations for the advancement of God's kingdom.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

1 Kings 5:1, though brief, offers profound insights for contemporary life. It reminds us of the immense value of cultivating and maintaining strong, respectful relationships, whether personal, professional, or even international. Just as Hiram's established friendship with David paved the way for vital cooperation with Solomon, our past relationships can open doors for future endeavors and facilitate significant undertakings. This verse encourages us to honor and build upon the legacies of those who came before us, recognizing that their efforts and relationships often create the foundation upon which we can build. It highlights how strategic alliances, built on trust, mutual benefit, and shared respect, can facilitate great undertakings, even those of immense spiritual and national significance. Furthermore, it speaks to the importance of recognizing and affirming legitimate leadership, contributing to stability and prosperity within any community or nation. We are called to be people who foster peace and seek collaboration for the common good, especially when it serves God's greater purposes and advances His kingdom in the world.

Questions for Reflection

  • How do the relationships we cultivate today, both personal and professional, lay the groundwork for future opportunities and collaborations?
  • In what ways can we honor and build upon the "legacy" of those who have gone before us in our families, churches, or communities?
  • What does Hiram's proactive outreach teach us about initiating positive relationships, even with those from different backgrounds or beliefs, for a common, beneficial purpose?
  • How does this verse illustrate God's sovereignty in using human relationships and political contexts to accomplish His divine will?

FAQ

What was the relationship between Hiram and David like?

Answer: The relationship between Hiram and David was one of deep friendship and a strong, mutually beneficial alliance. 2 Samuel 5:11 explicitly states that Hiram provided David with cedar timber and skilled craftsmen (masons and carpenters) to build his royal palace. This indicates a robust diplomatic and commercial bond, characterized by trust and cooperation, which was clearly understood as a "lover of David" relationship. This phrase implies loyalty and shared interests that extended beyond mere political expediency, forming a foundational alliance that was crucial for the seamless transition of the alliance to Solomon.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

1 Kings 5:1, with its depiction of a pagan king's crucial role in preparing for the Temple's construction, powerfully foreshadows the broader, inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. Just as Hiram, an outsider from Tyre, provided the essential materials and expertise for the physical dwelling place of God's presence, so too does Christ, the ultimate builder and cornerstone, gather people from "every tribe and language and people and nation" (Revelation 5:9) to construct His spiritual Temple, the Church (Ephesians 2:19-22). The peace and prosperity of Solomon's reign, facilitated by strategic alliances like that with Hiram, point to the greater, eternal peace and reconciliation found in Christ, who breaks down dividing walls of hostility between peoples (Ephesians 2:14). Furthermore, Hiram's recognition of Solomon's divinely appointed kingship anticipates the universal recognition of Jesus Christ as King of kings and Lord of lords (Philippians 2:9-11), to whom all nations will ultimately bring their tribute and worship. The resources of the nations, once used for an earthly temple, are now consecrated to the building of God's eternal kingdom through the power of the Holy Spirit, as believers become living stones in a spiritual house, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone (1 Peter 2:5).

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Commentary on 1 Kings 5 verses 1–9

I. II. Main points1. 2. Sub-points(1.) (2.) Details

We have here an account of the amicable correspondence between Solomon and Hiram. Tyre was a famous trading city, that lay close upon the sea, in the border of Israel; its inhabitants (as should seem) were none of the devoted nations, nor ever at enmity with Israel, and therefore David never offered to destroy them, but lived in friendship with them. It is here said of Hiram their king that he was ever a lover of David; and we have reason to think he was a worshipper of the true God, and had himself renounced, though he could not reform, the idolatry of his city. David's character will win the affections even of those that are without. Here is,

I. Hiram's embassy of compliment to Solomon, Kg1 5:1. He sent, as is usual among princes, to condole with him on the death of David, and to renew his alliances with him upon his succession to the government. It is good keeping up friendship and communion with the families in which religion is uppermost.

II. Solomon's embassy of business to Hiram, sent, it is likely, by messengers of his own. In wealth, honour, and power, Hiram was very much inferior to Solomon, yet Solomon had occasion to be beholden to him and begged his favour. Let us never look with disdain on those below us, because we know not how soon we may need them. Solomon, in his letter to Hiram, acquaints him,

1.With his design to build a temple to the honour of God. Some think that temples among the heathen took their first rise and copy from the tabernacle which Moses erected in the wilderness, and that there were none before that; however there were many houses built in honour of the false gods before this was built in honour of the God of Israel, so little is external splendour a mark of the true church. Solomon tells Hiram, who was himself no stranger to the affair, (1.) That David's wars were an obstruction to him, that he could not build this temple, though he designed it, Kg1 5:3. They took up much of his time, and thoughts, and cares, were a constant expense to him and a constant employment of his subjects; so that he could not do it so well as it must be done, and therefore, it not being essential to religion, he must leave it to be done by his successor. See what need we have to pray that God will give peace in our time, because, in time or war, the building of the gospel temple commonly goes on slowly. (2.) That peace gave him an opportunity to build it, and therefore he resolved to set about it immediately: God has given me rest both at home and abroad, and there is no adversary (Kg1 5:4), no Satan (so the word is), no instrument of Satan to oppose it, or to divert us from it. Satan does all he can to hinder temple work (Th1 2:18; Zac 3:1), but when he is bound (Rev 20:2) we should be busy. When there is no evil occurrent, then let us be vigorous and zealous in that which is good and get it forward. When the churches have rest let them be edified, Act 9:31. Days of peace and prosperity present us with a fair gale, which we must account for if we improve not. As God's providence excited Solomon to think of building the temple, by giving him wealth and leisure, so his promise encouraged him. God had told David that his son should build him a house, Kg1 5:5. He will take it as a pleasure to be thus employed, and will not lose the honour designed him by that promise. It may stir us up much to good undertakings to be assured of good success in them. Let God's promise quicken our endeavours.

2.With his desire that Hiram would assist him herein. Lebanon was the place whence timber must be had, a noble forest in the north of Canaan, particularly expressed in the grant of that land to Israel - all Lebanon, Jos 13:5. So that Solomon was proprietor of all its productions. The cedars of Lebanon are spoken of as, in a special manner, the planting of the Lord (Psa 109:16), being designed for Israel's use and particularly for temple service. But Solomon owned that though the trees were his the Israelites had not skill to hew timber like the Sidonians, who were Hiram's subjects. Canaan was a land of wheat and barley (Deu 8:8), which employed Israel in the affairs of husbandry, so that they were not at all versed in manufactures: in them the Sidonians excelled. Israel, in the things of God, are a wise and understanding people; and yet, in curious arts, inferior to their neighbours. True piety is a much more valuable gift of heaven than the highest degree of ingenuity. Better be an Israelite skilful in the law than a Sidonian skilful to hew timber. But, the case being thus, Solomon courts Hiram to send him workmen, and promises (Kg1 5:6) both to assist them (my servants shall be with thy servants, to work under them), and to pay them (unto thee will I give hire for thy servants); for the labourer, even in church-work, though it be indeed its own wages, is worthy of his hire, The evangelical prophet, foretelling the glory of the church in the days of the Messiah, seems to allude to this story, Isa. 60, where he prophesies, (1.) That the sons of strangers (such were the Tyrians and Sidonians) shall build up the wall of the gospel temple, Kg1 5:10. Ministers were raised up among the Gentiles for the edifying of the body of Christ. (2.) That the glory of Lebanon shall be brought to it to beautify it, Kg1 5:13. All external endowments and advantages shall be made serviceable to the interests of Christ's kingdom.

3.Hiram's reception of, and return to, this message.

(1.)He received it with great satisfaction to himself: He rejoiced greatly (Kg1 5:7) that Solomon trod in his father's steps, and carried on his designs, and was likely to be so great a blessing to his kingdom. In this Hiram's generous spirit rejoiced, and not merely in the prospect he had of making an advantage to himself by Solomon's employing him. What he had the pleasure of he gave God the praise of: Blessed be the Lord, who has given to David (who was himself a wise man) a wise son to rule over this great people. See here, [1.] With what pleasure Hiram speaks of Solomon's wisdom and the extent of his dominion. Let us learn not to envy others either those secular advantages or those endowments of the mind wherein they excel us. What a great comfort it is to those that wish well to the Israel of God to see religion and wisdom kept up in families from one generation to another, especially in great families and those that have great influence on others! where it is so, God must have the glory of it. If to godly parents be given a godly seed (Mal 2:15), it is a token for good, and a happy indication that the entail of the blessing shall not be cut off.

(2.)He answered it with great satisfaction to Solomon, granting him what he desired, and showing himself very forward to assist him in this great and good work to which he was laying his hand. We have here his articles of agreement with Solomon concerning this affair, in which we may observe Hiram's prudence. [1.] He deliberated upon the proposal, before he returned an answer (Kg1 5:8): I have considered the things. It is common for those that make bargains rashly afterwards to wish them unmade again. The virtuous woman considers a field and then buys it, Pro 31:16. Those do not lose time who take time to consider. [2.] He descended to particulars in the articles, that there might be no misunderstanding afterwards, to occasion a quarrel. Solomon had spoken of hewing the trees (Kg1 5:6), and Hiram agrees to what he desired concerning that (Kg1 5:8); but nothing had been said concerning carriage, and this matter therefore must be settled. Land-carriage would be very troublesome and chargeable; he therefore undertakes to bring all the timber down from Lebanon by sea, a coasting voyage. Conveyance by water is a great convenience to trade, for which God is to have praise, who taught man that discretion. Observe what a definite bargain Hiram made. Solomon must appoint the place where the timber shall be delivered, and thither Hiram will undertake to bring it and be responsible for its safety. As the Sidonians excelled the Israelites in timber-work, so they did in sailing; for Tyre and Sidon were situate at the entry of the sea (Eze 27:3): they therefore were fittest to take care of the water-carriage. Tractant fabrilia fabri - Every artist has his trade assigned. And, [3.] If Hiram undertake for the work, and do all Solomon's desire concerning the timber (Kg1 5:8), he justly expects that Solomon shall undertake for the wages: "Thou shalt accomplish my desire in giving food for my household (Kg1 5:9), not only for the workmen, but for my own family." If Tyre supply Israel with craftsmen, Israel will supply Tyre with corn, Eze 27:17. Thus, by the wise disposal of Providence, one country has need of another and is benefited by another, that there may be mutual correspondence and dependence, to the glory of God our common parent.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–9. 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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