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Commentary on 1 Kings 5 verses 1–9
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.
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SUMMARY
This concise verse marks the pivotal initiation of King Solomon's strategic preparations for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. Immediately upon ascending the throne and consolidating his reign, Solomon dispatches a formal message to King Hiram of Tyre, a long-standing ally, signaling the commencement of a crucial diplomatic partnership aimed at securing the specialized resources and skilled labor necessary for this divinely mandated architectural masterpiece.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: 1 Kings 5:2 serves as a critical transition point in the narrative of Solomon's reign, pivoting from his internal consolidation of power and display of wisdom to the external, monumental task of building the Temple. It follows the accounts of his renowned wisdom from God, his establishment of a vast and prosperous kingdom, and the organization of his administrative structure, as detailed in 1 Kings 3 and 1 Kings 4. This verse directly sets the stage for the fulfillment of God's promise to David that his son would build a house for the Lord, a covenant recorded in 2 Samuel 7:12-13. Immediately after this verse, the text elaborates on the specific content of Solomon's message to Hiram (1 Kings 5:3-6) and Hiram's enthusiastic response, leading directly into the detailed logistical arrangements for the Temple's construction, which occupy the remainder of 1 Kings 5 and 1 Kings 6. This verse thus shifts the narrative focus from internal governance to external diplomacy, all in service of God's grand architectural plan.
Historical & Cultural Context: Solomon's reign (c. 970-931 BC) is widely regarded as the zenith of the united monarchy of Israel, characterized by unprecedented peace, prosperity, and extensive building projects. The city of Tyre, located on the Phoenician coast, was a powerful maritime city-state renowned for its vast natural resources, particularly the high-quality cedar and cypress timber from the forests of Lebanon, and for its highly skilled artisans. These Phoenician craftsmen were masters in carpentry, masonry, and metalwork, possessing expertise that Israel, primarily an agrarian society, lacked. King Hiram of Tyre had previously established a friendly and cooperative relationship with King David, providing materials and craftsmen for David's palace (2 Samuel 5:11). Solomon's immediate initiative to reach out to Hiram was a shrewd diplomatic move, leveraging an existing alliance and securing access to essential resources and unparalleled craftsmanship required for a project of the Temple's scale and sacred significance. Such international alliances and reciprocal agreements were common and crucial for large-scale endeavors in the ancient Near East, reflecting a pragmatic approach to statecraft and resource acquisition.
Key Themes: This concise verse introduces and reinforces several significant themes that resonate throughout the narrative of the Temple's construction and beyond. It highlights the theme of Divine Mandate and Human Responsibility, demonstrating that while the Temple's construction was God's explicit will, it required significant human planning, diligent effort, and strategic collaboration. Solomon's immediate action underscores the theme of Wisdom in Leadership, as his strategic alliance with Tyre reveals his foresight, understanding of necessary resources, and ability to execute large-scale projects. The verse also emphasizes International Cooperation for God's purposes, showing how God can sovereignly use individuals and nations outside of Israel to accomplish His divine plan. Furthermore, it speaks to the theme of Preparation for God's Work, illustrating that even the most sacred undertakings demand meticulous logistical and diplomatic groundwork before physical construction can begin. Finally, it reinforces the Continuity of God's Plan, as Solomon's action directly fulfills the promise made to his father, David, regarding the building of God's house, ensuring the perpetuation of God's covenant promises across generations.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The conciseness of 1 Kings 5:2 is a notable Literary Device. Despite its brevity, the verse carries immense narrative weight, serving as a powerful Transition from the internal affairs of Solomon's kingdom (his wisdom, administration, and prosperity) to the external, international efforts required for the monumental Temple project. It functions as a moment of Foreshadowing, immediately hinting at the grand scale of the task ahead (the building of the Temple) and the essential international collaboration that will be required to accomplish it. The very act of "sending" to a foreign king highlights the theme of Diplomacy and strategic alliance as key components of Solomon's wise leadership, underscoring his proactive approach to fulfilling God's architectural mandate. The verse's directness also contributes to its impact, conveying a sense of immediate and purposeful action.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 5:2 beautifully illustrates the principle of divine providence working through human agency and international cooperation. While the construction of the Temple was a divinely ordained project, God chose to accomplish it not through miraculous intervention alone, but through the strategic planning, diligent diplomatic efforts, and specialized skilled labor of human beings, including those from outside Israel. This demonstrates that God often uses existing relationships, natural resources, and diverse talents—even from unexpected sources like a pagan king and his artisans—to fulfill His purposes. It underscores that God's grand designs often require our diligent preparation, wise stewardship of relationships, and proactive engagement with the world around us. This verse sets the stage for a partnership that reflects God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to orchestrate events and relationships for the advancement of His kingdom, revealing a God who works through both the sacred and the seemingly secular spheres of life.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's immediate and strategic action in 1 Kings 5:2 offers profound lessons for believers today. It reminds us that while God's plans are sovereign and His provision is assured, He often calls us to proactive and diligent participation. We are not to passively wait for divine intervention when practical steps, strategic planning, and collaborative efforts are required. Solomon's wisdom in leveraging existing relationships and seeking out specialized resources highlights the importance of collaboration and networking in fulfilling God-given visions, whether in personal life, ministry, or professional endeavors. It challenges us to identify the "Hirams" in our lives—those individuals or groups who possess unique skills, resources, or connections that can contribute to a greater purpose. Furthermore, it teaches us to steward our relationships well, recognizing that God often uses our network to provide for our needs and advance His kingdom. This verse encourages us to be diligent in preparation, strategic in our approach, and open to God's provision coming through unexpected channels, trusting that He will equip us for every good work.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Hiram of Tyre so important for the Temple project?
Answer: Hiram, King of Tyre, was crucial for the Temple project due to his kingdom's unique resources and unparalleled craftsmanship. Tyre was the center of the Phoenician maritime empire, with access to the vast cedar and cypress forests of Lebanon, which provided the high-quality timber essential for the Temple's construction. More importantly, Phoenician artisans were considered the most skilled craftsmen in the ancient world, excelling in carpentry, masonry, and metalwork. Israel, being primarily an agrarian society, did not possess this specialized expertise or the scale of resources required for such a monumental undertaking. Hiram had also been a long-standing ally of King David, providing materials and craftsmen for David's palace (2 Samuel 5:11), establishing a precedent for cooperation and trust. Solomon wisely leveraged this existing relationship and Tyre's unique capabilities, as detailed throughout 1 Kings 5, to ensure the successful and magnificent construction of the Lord's house, demonstrating God's ability to use diverse means and peoples to accomplish His divine will.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Kings 5:2, though seemingly a simple diplomatic note, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. Solomon, in his wisdom and proactive leadership, initiates the building of a physical temple, a dwelling place for God's presence among His people, symbolizing the covenant relationship. This act profoundly foreshadows Christ, the true and greater Solomon, who not only embodies divine wisdom far surpassing that of any earthly king (Matthew 12:42) but is also the ultimate builder of God's spiritual temple—the Church (Matthew 16:18). Just as Solomon gathered diverse resources and skilled laborers from various nations for the physical structure, Christ gathers people from every tribe, tongue, and nation, incorporating them as "living stones" into a spiritual house, a dwelling place for God by the Spirit (1 Peter 2:4-5, Ephesians 2:19-22). The Temple's purpose was to manifest God's presence; in Christ, God's presence is fully and perfectly revealed, for in Him "all the fullness of the Deity dwells bodily" (Colossians 2:9). The strategic alliance between Solomon and Hiram, bridging the gap between Israel and a Gentile nation for God's purposes, beautifully points to the new covenant reality where, through Christ, God unites Jew and Gentile into one body, breaking down dividing walls of hostility and building a new humanity where God Himself dwells by His Spirit (Ephesians 2:14-16).