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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Kings 5:1–9. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
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.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
This Hiram had been converted to [the worship of] God through his relationships with David, and “he rejoiced greatly, when he heard” that a house would be built for the Lord. He asks to be supplied with bread and oil in exchange for the wood that he delivers because the Tyrians and the Sidonians, as it appears, did not sow or harvest since their commerce was exclusively maritime.
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Summary
1 Kings 5:7 captures the enthusiastic and spiritually significant reaction of King Hiram of Tyre upon receiving Solomon's message concerning the construction of the Temple. Hiram's response transcends mere political diplomacy, as he offers a profound blessing to the LORD, acknowledging the divine wisdom explicitly bestowed upon Solomon. This pivotal moment not only highlights God's active involvement in the affairs of His people but also underscores His unwavering faithfulness to the Davidic covenant and the international recognition of His sovereign hand in establishing Solomon's reign and enabling the monumental Temple project.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed early in Solomon's reign, immediately following the divine granting of extraordinary wisdom and understanding in response to his humble prayer at Gibeon, as detailed in 1 Kings 3:9-12. Solomon's burgeoning fame for his unparalleled wisdom had already spread across the known world, as attested in 1 Kings 4:29-34. Chapter 5 initiates with Hiram's enduring friendship with King David and his subsequent demonstration of goodwill towards Solomon (1 Kings 5:1). Solomon then communicates his intention to construct a house for the LORD, a fulfillment of his father David's aspiration and God's own promise (1 Kings 5:2-5). Verse 7 serves as Hiram's exuberant and divinely-attuned affirmation of Solomon's specific request for the essential timber and skilled laborers required for the Temple's construction.
Historical & Cultural Context
Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city-state, functioned as a major maritime and commercial powerhouse in the ancient Near East. It was particularly renowned for its abundant cedar forests in Lebanon and its highly skilled artisans in various crafts, including masonry, carpentry, and metalwork. A robust and mutually beneficial alliance, characterized by peaceful trade and resource exchange, had previously been forged between King David and Hiram. Solomon sought to maintain and leverage this established relationship for the ambitious Temple project, which demanded vast resources and specialized expertise largely unavailable within Israel. Hiram's response in this verse reflects not only the continuation of a vital political and economic alliance but also a broader cultural understanding prevalent in the ancient world regarding divine favor upon kings and nations. While there is no indication that Hiram converted to Yahwism, his public blessing of the LORD signifies a profound respect for Israel's God, acknowledging His power and influence, perhaps viewing Him as a preeminent deity who had uniquely blessed Solomon and the nation of Israel.
Key Themes
This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within 1 Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates Divine Wisdom Recognized, as Hiram explicitly attributes Solomon's exceptional wisdom to the LORD, confirming that this wisdom was not merely human intellect but a supernatural endowment for effective leadership and just governance. Secondly, it underscores God's Providence and Sovereignty, demonstrating that God works through diverse individuals, even those outside the immediate covenant community like a pagan king, to achieve His ultimate purposes and bring glory to His name. Hiram's recognition serves as a testament to God's overarching control. Thirdly, it highlights the Fulfillment of Promise, specifically the Davidic Covenant, wherein God promised David that his son would build a house for His name (2 Samuel 7:13). Solomon's divinely-granted wisdom and the stability of his kingdom, which enabled the Temple's construction, were direct outworkings of this covenant promise. Finally, it showcases International Respect for Israel, demonstrating the nation's growing influence and recognition among its neighbors, a direct result of God's favor and Solomon's divinely-imparted wisdom.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This phrase conveys an intense, profound joy, far beyond mere polite or diplomatic pleasure. Hiram's elation likely stemmed from a confluence of factors: the continuation of a valuable and prosperous alliance with a powerful neighbor, the significant economic opportunities presented by the massive Temple construction project, and a genuine sense of awe at the divine favor evident in Solomon's wisdom and the stability of his kingdom. His overwhelming joy underscores the widespread positive impact of God's blessing on Israel, extending even to foreign nations and their rulers.
This word, a primitive root, fundamentally means "to kneel" and, by implication, "to bless God (as an act of adoration)" or "to bless man (as a benefit)." For a non-Israelite king to utter this phrase, "Blessed be the LORD," is highly significant. It indicates a profound respect for the God of Israel and an acknowledgment of His active hand in human affairs, particularly in the anointing and equipping of Solomon. While it does not necessarily imply monotheistic conversion, it certainly signifies a recognition of Yahweh's supreme power and influence.
Derived from a root meaning "to be wise," this adjective describes someone intelligent, skillful, or artful. Hiram's description of Solomon as a "wise son" directly echoes the divine gift of wisdom Solomon had received from God, as recorded in 1 Kings 3:12. This phrase confirms that Solomon's wisdom was not merely a personal intellectual trait but a divinely imparted quality, recognized even by those outside Israel. It underscores the unique nature of Solomon's kingship, established and sustained by God's favor and wisdom.
Verse Breakdown
"And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words of Solomon"
This opening clause meticulously sets the scene, emphasizing the direct and impactful communication between the two reigning monarchs. Solomon's "words" refer specifically to his detailed message, outlined in the preceding verses, which articulated his profound intention to construct the Temple for the LORD and his subsequent request for Hiram's invaluable assistance. The immediate and profound effect of Solomon's message is highlighted, leading directly to Hiram's subsequent reaction.
"that he rejoiced greatly"
Hiram's intense and overwhelming joy is presented as the primary emotional response to Solomon's communication. This joy is multifaceted, encompassing significant political, economic, and spiritual dimensions. It signifies the successful and prosperous establishment of the alliance, the promise of lucrative and extensive trade opportunities, and a genuine recognition of God's profound blessing upon Solomon and the nation of Israel. This powerful emotional response validates the immense significance of Solomon's request and the divine backing that underpinned it.
"and said, Blessed [be] the LORD this day"
This declaration forms the profound theological core of Hiram's statement. His act of blessing Yahweh, the God of Israel, is a truly remarkable acknowledgment coming from a pagan monarch. It signifies that God's power, wisdom, and favor are so undeniably evident in Solomon's reign that even a foreign king is compelled to offer Him praise and recognition. This public declaration elevates the significance of the moment, powerfully showcasing God's universal sovereignty and influence.
"which hath given unto David a wise son over this great people"
Hiram's concluding statement explicitly and unequivocally links Solomon's exceptional wisdom and his divinely appointed position as king over Israel to the direct, sovereign action of the LORD. He clearly recognizes God's hand in choosing, equipping, and establishing Solomon, thereby fulfilling His sacred promise to David regarding his successor. The phrase "this great people" reflects the growing prominence, strength, and influence of Israel under Solomon's reign, serving as a powerful testament to God's abundant blessing upon His covenant nation.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and impact. Irony is prominently featured, as Hiram, a pagan king, offers sincere praise and blessing to Yahweh, the God of Israel. This unexpected acknowledgment from an outsider powerfully highlights the undeniable nature of God's work and the self-evident wisdom He has bestowed upon Solomon. There is also an element of hyperbole in the phrase "rejoiced greatly," which serves to emphasize the extraordinary nature of Hiram's delight and the profound impact of Solomon's message. Furthermore, the verse functions as a form of foreshadowing, signaling the successful commencement of the monumental Temple project, which will become a central and defining theme in the subsequent chapters of 1 Kings. The entire interaction also powerfully underscores the overarching theme of Divine Intervention or Providence, where God's unseen hand orchestrates events and relationships—such as the crucial alliance with Tyre—to meticulously fulfill His sovereign purposes, most notably the building of His sacred dwelling place.
Theological and Thematic Connections
1 Kings 5:7 stands as a profound testament to God's universal sovereignty and His remarkable ability to work through unexpected channels to accomplish His divine purposes. Hiram's blessing of Yahweh, coming from a non-Israelite king acknowledging the God of Israel, powerfully demonstrates that God's glory is not confined solely to His covenant people but extends to all nations, compelling even outsiders to recognize His power and wisdom. This pivotal moment underscores that God's grand plan for His people, including the establishment of their kingdom and the building of His sacred dwelling place, is an integral part of a larger, global narrative where His name is ultimately glorified. It affirms God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises, particularly the Davidic Covenant, and reveals how human wisdom, when divinely bestowed, can lead to international respect and cooperation for God's greater glory and the advancement of His kingdom.
Reflection and Application
Hiram's reaction in 1 Kings 5:7 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's wisdom, when authentically present and actively lived out in individuals and communities, is discernable even to those outside the immediate circle of faith. This truth challenges us to live lives that genuinely reflect God's wisdom, demonstrating its practical and transformative impact in our leadership, our relationships, and our approach to problem-solving, so that others, too, might be compelled to acknowledge God's guiding hand. Furthermore, Hiram's blessing of the LORD, despite his likely polytheistic background, powerfully underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all creation and His remarkable ability to use anyone—regardless of their background, belief system, or personal history—to advance His kingdom purposes. This should profoundly encourage us to look for God's work in unexpected places and to celebrate His glory wherever and however it is manifested. Finally, the verse reinforces God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises. Just as God meticulously fulfilled His word to David through the reign of Solomon, we can trust with absolute certainty that He will fulfill His promises to us, providing the wisdom, the necessary resources, and the strategic alliances required to accomplish His will in our individual lives and collectively through His church.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Was Hiram a monotheist or did he convert to worshipping Yahweh?
While Hiram's statement, "Blessed be the LORD," is a profound acknowledgment of Yahweh's power and influence, most biblical scholars do not believe he converted to monotheism or became a full worshipper of Yahweh. His words are likely an expression of deep respect and recognition of Yahweh as a supremely powerful deity who had uniquely blessed Solomon and Israel. In the ancient Near East, it was common for rulers to acknowledge the gods of allied nations, often seeing them as powerful within their own spheres. Hiram's blessing could be seen as a diplomatic and respectful gesture, acknowledging the source of Solomon's evident wisdom and prosperity, which directly benefited Tyre through the alliance and trade. His focus is on the practical outcome of God's blessing on Solomon, leading to a beneficial partnership, rather than a theological conversion.
Why was Hiram so "greatly rejoiced" by Solomon's message?
Hiram's intense joy stemmed from a powerful combination of political, economic, and strategic factors. Firstly, the continuation of the peaceful and prosperous alliance with Israel, which had been firmly established under King David, was highly beneficial for Tyre's extensive trade networks and overall security. Solomon's specific request for timber and skilled labor for the monumental Temple project represented a massive economic opportunity for Tyre, ensuring a steady and lucrative flow of resources and wealth into his kingdom. Furthermore, the construction of such a magnificent and renowned structure as the Temple would undoubtedly enhance the prestige and reputation of both nations on the international stage. Beyond these practical considerations, Hiram also genuinely recognized the divine wisdom bestowed upon Solomon, understanding that a wise and divinely favored king would ensure stability and prosperity for the entire region, ultimately benefiting all parties involved in the alliance. This was not merely a transactional arrangement but a deeply valued partnership rooted in mutual respect and the clear recognition of God's favor upon Solomon's reign.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The wise reign of Solomon and the monumental building of the Temple, acknowledged even by a foreign king like Hiram, profoundly prefigure the ultimate reign and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Solomon, the "wise son" chosen by God to build His house, serves as a powerful type of Christ, who is the very wisdom of God personified and embodied (1 Corinthians 1:24). While Solomon constructed a magnificent physical temple, Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, whose body would be destroyed and miraculously raised in three days (John 2:19-21). Moreover, Christ is actively building a spiritual house, His church, composed of living stones, a holy priesthood (1 Peter 2:5), a temple not made with human hands but established by divine power (Hebrews 9:11). Hiram's recognition of God's hand in Solomon's reign powerfully foreshadows the universal acknowledgment of Christ's supreme authority and divine wisdom, where ultimately every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:9-11). Just as Solomon's divinely-granted wisdom brought an era of peace and prosperity that extended beyond Israel's geographical borders, Christ's eternal reign brings a peace that surpasses all understanding to His followers (Philippians 4:7) and a spiritual prosperity that extends to all who believe, thereby fulfilling God's ultimate redemptive purpose through the greater Son of David (Matthew 1:1).