1 Kings 5:4

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

But now the LORD {H3068} my God {H430} hath given me rest {H5117} on every side {H5439}, so that there is neither adversary {H7854} nor evil {H7451} occurrent {H6294}.

But now ADONAI my God has given me rest on every side; there is neither adversary nor calamity.

But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side, and there is no adversary or crisis.

But now Jehovah my God hath given me rest on every side; there is neither adversary, nor evil occurrence.

Commentary

1 Kings 5:4 presents King Solomon's declaration of a divinely granted era of peace and stability, a crucial prerequisite for his monumental task of building the Temple of the Lord. This verse highlights God's faithful provision, clearing the way for His will to be accomplished.

Context of 1 Kings 5:4

This verse is part of Solomon's communication with Hiram, King of Tyre. Solomon is explaining why he can now proceed with building the Temple, a project his father, King David, had desired but was unable to complete due to constant warfare (1 Kings 5:3). Solomon's reign ushers in a period of unprecedented peace, fulfilling God's promises of rest for His people in the land of Israel, as seen in Joshua 21:44.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Peace and Providence: The "rest on every side" is not a political achievement by Solomon alone, but a direct gift from God. It signifies divine favor and the Lord's active hand in creating the ideal conditions for the Temple's construction.
  • Prerequisite for God's Work: This verse underscores that a period of peace and stability can be a necessary foundation for significant spiritual undertakings. The absence of external threats and internal unrest allowed Israel to focus its resources and energy on the sacred project.
  • Fulfillment of Promise: Solomon's peaceful reign and the ability to build the Temple were part of God's covenant promises to David, ensuring a successor who would build a house for the Lord's name.
  • Prosperity and Security: The phrase "neither adversary nor evil occurrent" paints a picture of complete national security and well-being, marking a golden age for Israel under Solomon, further detailed in 1 Kings 4:25.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "neither adversary nor evil occurrent" is rich in meaning:

  • "Adversary" comes from the Hebrew word satan (ืฉึธื‚ื˜ึธืŸ), which literally means "opponent" or "resister." In this context, it refers to any political or military enemy that might threaten Israel's borders or internal stability. Solomon declares that no such opposition exists.
  • "Evil occurrent" translates the Hebrew paga ra'a (ืคึถึผื’ึทืข ืจึธืข). Paga means "an incident," "a chance," or "a misfortune," while ra'a means "evil" or "bad." Together, it signifies the absence of any harmful incident, calamity, or internal rebellion that could disrupt the kingdom or the Temple building project.

Practical Application

Solomon's experience in 1 Kings 5:4 offers several timeless insights:

  • Recognizing God's Provision: We should learn to recognize and appreciate periods of peace, stability, and abundance in our lives as divine gifts, enabling us to focus on God's purposes.
  • Seasons for Service: Just as Solomon's peace enabled the Temple, God often provides seasons of rest or specific resources to empower us for significant spiritual work, personal growth, or acts of service.
  • Trust in God's Sovereignty: This verse reminds us that God is sovereign over circumstances, bringing about peace or challenges according to His perfect plan and timing.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 22:9 (8 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.

  • 1 Kings 4:24 (4 votes)

    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.

  • 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.

  • Acts 9:31 (2 votes)

    Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

  • Psalms 72:7 (1 votes)

    In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.