1 Kings 5:7

KJV

And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words of Solomon, that he rejoiced greatly, and said, Blessed [be] the LORD this day, which hath given unto David a wise son over this great people.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it came to pass, when Hiram {H2438} heard {H8085} the words {H1697} of Solomon {H8010}, that he rejoiced {H8055} greatly {H3966}, and said {H559}, Blessed {H1288} be the LORD {H3068} this day {H3117}, which hath given {H5414} unto David {H1732} a wise {H2450} son {H1121} over this great {H7227} people {H5971}.

Complete Jewish Bible

When Hiram heard Shlomo's message, he was very happy and said, "Blessed be ADONAI today, who has given David a wise son to rule this great people."

Berean Standard Bible

When Hiram received Solomon’s message, he rejoiced greatly and said, “Blessed be the LORD this day! He has given David a wise son over this great people!”

American Standard Version

And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words of Solomon, that he rejoiced greatly, and said, Blessed be Jehovah this day, who hath given unto David a wise son over this great people.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 5:7 records the jubilant response of King Hiram of Tyre upon receiving Solomon's message regarding the construction of the Temple. Hiram's reaction is not merely diplomatic but deeply spiritual, as he blesses the LORD, acknowledging the divine wisdom bestowed upon Solomon. This pivotal moment underscores God's active involvement in the affairs of His people, His 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 situated within the early phase of Solomon's reign, immediately following his renowned prayer for wisdom at Gibeon and God's subsequent granting of extraordinary wisdom and understanding ([1 Kings 3:9-12](/1_kings/3-9 "1 Kings 3:9-12 - Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom")). Solomon's fame for wisdom had already spread throughout the nations ([1 Kings 4:29-34](/1_kings/4-29 "1 Kings 4:29-34 - Solomon's Great Wisdom")). Chapter 5 opens with Hiram's enduring friendship with David and his continued goodwill towards Solomon ([1 Kings 5:1](/1_kings/5-1 "1 Kings 5:1 - Hiram's Friendship with Solomon")). Solomon then sends a message to Hiram, outlining his intention to build a house for the LORD, fulfilling his father David's desire and God's promise ([1 Kings 5:2-5](/1_kings/5-2 "1 Kings 5:2-5 - Solomon's Request to Hiram for Temple Materials")). Verse 7 is Hiram's enthusiastic and divinely-attuned response to Solomon's specific request for timber and skilled laborers for the Temple.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Tyre, a powerful Phoenician city-state, was a major maritime and commercial hub in the ancient Near East, renowned for its vast cedar forests in Lebanon and its highly skilled craftsmen in masonry, carpentry, and metalwork. A strong, peaceful, and mutually beneficial alliance had been established between King David and Hiram, involving trade and exchange of resources. Solomon sought to continue and leverage this existing relationship for the ambitious Temple project, which required immense resources and expertise not readily available in Israel. Hiram's response reflects not only the continuation of a strategic political and economic alliance but also a cultural understanding of divine favor upon kings and nations. While not converting to Yahwism, Hiram's public blessing of the LORD demonstrates a profound respect for Israel's God, acknowledging His power and influence, perhaps viewing Him as a powerful deity who had uniquely blessed Solomon and Israel.
* **Key Themes:** The verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Wisdom Recognized**, as Hiram explicitly attributes Solomon's wisdom to the LORD, confirming that this wisdom was not merely human intellect but a supernatural gift for leadership and justice. Secondly, it powerfully illustrates **God's Providence and Sovereignty**, showing that God works through various individuals, even those outside the covenant community like a pagan king, to achieve His purposes and bring Him glory. Hiram's recognition underscores God's overarching control. Thirdly, it points to the **Fulfillment of Promise**, specifically the Davidic Covenant, where God promised David that his son would build a house for His name ([2 Samuel 7:13](/2_samuel/7-13 "2 Samuel 7:13 - God's Promise to David about the Temple")). Solomon's wisdom and the stability of his kingdom, enabling the Temple's construction, were direct outworkings of this covenant. Finally, it demonstrates **International Respect for Israel**, showcasing the nation's growing influence and recognition among its neighbors due to God's favor and Solomon's divinely-granted wisdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **rejoiced greatly (Hebrew, _samach me'od_):** This phrase conveys an intense, profound joy, not merely a polite or diplomatic pleasure. Hiram's elation likely stemmed from multiple factors: the continuation of a valuable alliance with a powerful neighbor, the economic opportunities presented by the massive Temple project, and a genuine awe at the divine favor evident in Solomon's wisdom and the stability of his kingdom. His joy signifies the positive impact of God's blessing on Israel, extending even to foreign nations.
* **Blessed [be] the LORD (Hebrew, _baruch Yahweh_):** This is a common Hebrew expression of praise, adoration, and acknowledgment of God's goodness and sovereignty. For a non-Israelite king to utter this phrase 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 of Solomon. While it doesn't necessarily imply monotheistic conversion, it certainly signifies a recognition of Yahweh's supreme power and influence.
* **wise son (Hebrew, _ben chakam_):** Hiram's description of Solomon as a "wise son" directly echoes the divine gift of wisdom Solomon had received from God ([1 Kings 3:12](/1_kings/3-12 "1 Kings 3:12 - God Grants Solomon Wisdom")). This phrase confirms that Solomon's wisdom was not just a personal 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.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words of Solomon":** This opening clause sets the scene, emphasizing the direct communication between the two kings. Solomon's "words" refer to his message outlined in the preceding verses, detailing his intention to build the Temple and requesting Hiram's assistance. The impact of Solomon's message is immediate and profound, leading directly to Hiram's reaction.
* **"that he rejoiced greatly":** Hiram's intense joy is the primary emotional response highlighted. This joy is multifaceted, encompassing political, economic, and spiritual dimensions. It signifies the successful establishment of the alliance, the promise of lucrative trade, and a genuine recognition of God's blessing upon Solomon and Israel. This emotional response validates the significance of Solomon's request and the divine backing behind it.
* **"and said, Blessed [be] the LORD this day":** This is the theological core of Hiram's statement. His blessing of Yahweh, the God of Israel, is a remarkable acknowledgment from a pagan monarch. It signifies that God's power and wisdom are so evident in Solomon that even a foreign king is compelled to praise Him. This public declaration elevates the significance of the moment, showcasing God's universal sovereignty.
* **"which hath given unto David a wise son over this great people":** Hiram's concluding statement explicitly links Solomon's wisdom and his position as king over Israel to the direct action of the LORD. He recognizes God's hand in choosing and equipping Solomon, fulfilling His promise to David regarding his successor. The phrase "this great people" reflects the growing prominence and strength of Israel under Solomon's reign, a testament to God's blessing.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Irony** is prominent, as a pagan king, Hiram, offers praise and blessing to Yahweh, the God of Israel. This unexpected acknowledgment from an outsider highlights the undeniable nature of God's work and wisdom in Solomon. There is also an element of **hyperbole** in "rejoiced greatly," emphasizing the extraordinary nature of Hiram's delight and the profound impact of Solomon's message. The verse also serves as a form of **foreshadowing**, indicating the successful commencement of the Temple project, which will become a central theme in the following chapters of 1 Kings. Furthermore, the entire interaction underscores the theme of **Divine Intervention** or **Providence**, where God's unseen hand orchestrates events and relationships (like the alliance with Tyre) to fulfill His purposes, specifically the building of His house.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 5:7 is a profound testament to God's universal sovereignty and His ability to work through unexpected channels to accomplish His divine purposes. Hiram's blessing of Yahweh, a non-Israelite king acknowledging the God of Israel, demonstrates that God's glory is not confined to His covenant people but extends to all nations, compelling even outsiders to recognize His power and wisdom. This moment underscores that God's plan for His people, including the establishment of their kingdom and the building of His dwelling place, is part of a larger, global narrative where His name is glorified. It affirms God's 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.

* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord Frustrates the Plans of the Nations")
* [Isaiah 45:1-6](/isaiah/45-1 "Isaiah 45:1-6 - God Uses Cyrus")
* [Proverbs 8:15-16](/proverbs/8-15 "Proverbs 8:15-16 - Wisdom Guides Kings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hiram's reaction in 1 Kings 5:7 offers powerful lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God's wisdom, when truly present in individuals and communities, is discernible even to those outside the faith. This challenges us to live lives that genuinely reflect God's wisdom, demonstrating its practical impact in leadership, relationships, and problem-solving, so that others, too, might be compelled to acknowledge God's hand. Furthermore, Hiram's blessing of the LORD, despite his likely polytheistic background, underscores God's sovereignty over all creation and His ability to use anyone—regardless of their background or belief system—to advance His kingdom purposes. This should encourage us to look for God's work in unexpected places and to celebrate His glory wherever it is manifested. Finally, the verse reinforces God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises. Just as God fulfilled His word to David through Solomon, we can trust that He will fulfill His promises to us, providing the wisdom, resources, and alliances necessary to accomplish His will in our lives and through His church.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Hiram's recognition of God's hand in Solomon's wisdom challenge our understanding of where God works and how His glory is revealed?**
* **In what areas of your life or leadership do you most need God's wisdom, and how can you actively seek and apply it?**
* **How can we, like Hiram, cultivate a heart that acknowledges and praises God for His work, even when it manifests through unexpected individuals or circumstances?**

### FAQ
**Was Hiram a monotheist or did he convert to worshipping Yahweh?**

Answer: 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?**

Answer: Hiram's intense joy stemmed from a combination of political, economic, and strategic factors. Firstly, the continuation of the peaceful and prosperous alliance with Israel, established under David, was highly beneficial for Tyre's trade and security. Solomon's request for timber and skilled labor for the Temple project represented a massive economic opportunity, ensuring a steady flow of resources and wealth into Tyre. Furthermore, the building of such a magnificent structure as the Temple would enhance the prestige of both nations. 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 region, benefiting all parties involved. This was not just a transactional arrangement but a deeply valued partnership rooted in mutual respect and the recognition of God's favor upon Solomon's reign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The wise reign of Solomon and the building of the Temple, acknowledged even by a foreign king like Hiram, profoundly prefigure the ultimate reign and work of Jesus Christ. Solomon, the "wise son" chosen by God to build His house, serves as a type of Christ, who is the very **wisdom of God** personified ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Wisdom of God")). While Solomon built a magnificent physical temple, Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, whose body would be destroyed and raised in three days ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection and the True Temple")). Moreover, Christ is building a spiritual house, His church, composed of living stones ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")), a temple not made with human hands ([Hebrews 9:11](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11 - Christ's Heavenly Tabernacle")). Hiram's recognition of God's hand in Solomon's reign foreshadows the universal acknowledgment of Christ's supreme authority and wisdom, where **every knee will bow and every tongue confess** that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Just as Solomon's wisdom brought peace and prosperity that extended beyond Israel's borders, Christ's reign brings a **peace that surpasses all understanding** ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")) and a spiritual prosperity that extends to all who believe, fulfilling God's ultimate redemptive purpose through the greater Son of David ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Genealogy of Jesus")).

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

Proverbs 23:24

The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise [child] shall have joy of him.

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Psalms 137:6

If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.

Psalms 122:6

¶ Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.

Psalms 122:7

Peace be within thy walls, [and] prosperity within thy palaces.

2 Chronicles 9:7

Happy [are] thy men, and happy [are] these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and hear thy wisdom.

2 Chronicles 9:8

Blessed be the LORD thy God, which delighted in thee to set thee on his throne, [to be] king for the LORD thy God: because thy God loved Israel, to establish them for ever, therefore made he thee king over them, to do judgment and justice.