TRV
See on the biblical-era map
Study This Verse
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.
Continue studying 1 Kings 5:8 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
SUMMARY
1 Kings 5:8 records King Hiram of Tyre's affirmative and comprehensive response to King Solomon's request for timber—specifically cedar and fir—for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. This verse marks a pivotal moment in the diplomatic alliance between Israel and Tyre, securing the essential high-quality resources needed for one of the most significant architectural and spiritual undertakings in Israelite history, demonstrating God's sovereign provision for His dwelling place and the meticulous preparation for a sacred endeavor.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The passage employs several impactful literary devices. The diplomatic language used in the exchange between Hiram and Solomon establishes the formal, respectful, and mutually beneficial tone of their international alliance, highlighting the gravity and importance of the undertaking. The specific mention of "timber of cedar, and concerning timber of fir" functions as synecdoche, where these specific, prized materials represent the entirety of the vast and complex Temple construction project. There is also a clear element of foreshadowing in Hiram's ready and comprehensive agreement, hinting at the immense scale, splendor, and successful completion of the Temple that will soon be built, made possible by this very provision. Furthermore, the narrative subtly employs divine irony; the God of Israel orchestrates the provision of the finest materials for His sacred dwelling place through a foreign, non-covenant king, powerfully underscoring His universal sovereignty and His ability to use any means, even unexpected ones, to accomplish His divine will.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully illustrates God's meticulous provision for His people and His purposes. Even before the physical construction of the Temple begins, God ensures that the necessary resources are secured through an unexpected international alliance. This highlights that God's work is not limited by human capabilities, conventional means, or the boundaries of the covenant community; He can move the hearts of foreign kings and orchestrate global trade to achieve His divine will. The alliance between Israel and Tyre, though seemingly a secular political and economic arrangement, is clearly presented as being within the scope of God's sovereign plan for the Temple's construction, showing His dominion over all nations and their affairs. This principle profoundly reassures believers that God will provide what is needed for the tasks He calls them to, often in surprising and unexpected ways, demonstrating His faithfulness and boundless resources.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The readiness of King Hiram to supply the precious timber for God's Temple is a profound reminder that God often works through unexpected channels and diverse individuals to accomplish His divine purposes. Just as Solomon diligently sought out the best resources and forged strategic alliances, we are called to be proactive and wise in our endeavors for God's kingdom, yet always trusting in His ultimate provision. This passage encourages us to recognize and appreciate God's hand in every resource, skill, or relationship He brings into our lives, understanding that even seemingly secular interactions can be part of His grand design. It challenges us to be open to collaboration, even with those who may not share our exact beliefs, if it serves a greater, God-honoring purpose. Ultimately, it reinforces the truth that when God calls us to build, whether metaphorically or literally, He also provides the "timber" necessary for the task, whether it be spiritual gifts, financial resources, human connections, or divine favor.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was cedar and fir timber specifically requested and so important for the Temple?
Answer: Cedar and fir were not just any woods; they were the premium building materials of the ancient Near East, particularly from the renowned forests of Lebanon. Cedar was prized for its extraordinary durability, natural resistance to decay and insects, aromatic qualities, and impressive size, making it ideal for grand, long-lasting structures. Fir (or cypress/juniper) was also highly valued for its strength, workability, and attractive grain, often used for flooring, paneling, and other structural and decorative elements. The use of these specific, high-quality timbers for the Temple underscored its sacred importance, its intended permanence, and the reverence due to God's dwelling place. It reflected Solomon's commitment to building a structure worthy of the Lord, using the best available resources, as described in passages like 1 Kings 6:9-10, which details the use of cedar for the temple's ceiling and fir for its floor.
What does this alliance between Solomon and Hiram tell us about God's work and His methods?
Answer: This alliance reveals several profound truths about God's work. Firstly, it demonstrates God's sovereignty over all nations and their leaders. He is not limited to working only through His covenant people; He can use anyone, even a pagan king like Hiram, to accomplish His divine purposes. Secondly, it highlights God's meticulous provision. Long before the first stone was laid, God had prepared the resources and relationships necessary for the Temple's construction. Thirdly, it illustrates the principle of divine orchestration, where seemingly secular political or economic arrangements are integrated into God's grand plan. This alliance, driven by mutual benefit, ultimately served to provide the essential materials for the house of the Lord, showing that God can use diverse means and unexpected collaborations to achieve His will, as also seen in the provision for the second Temple, where Cyrus allowed timber from Lebanon to be brought to Joppa.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The provision of the finest cedar and fir timber for Solomon's Temple, secured through the alliance with Hiram, beautifully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect "building" of God's spiritual house in Christ. While the physical Temple was a magnificent structure, built with perishable materials, it was merely a shadow of the true dwelling place of God. Jesus Christ Himself is the true and greater Temple, as He powerfully declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," referring to His own body as the ultimate sanctuary. He is the foundational cornerstone, the very essence of God's presence among humanity, in whom "the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily" (Colossians 2:9 - The Fullness of God in Christ). The precious timbers of Lebanon, meticulously prepared for God's earthly dwelling, point to the incomparable value and eternal excellence of Christ's person and work. He is the one who builds His church, not with wood and stone, but with living stones—believers united in Him, forming a spiritual house and a holy priesthood, as Peter describes the church as a spiritual house built of living stones. Thus, Hiram's provision for Solomon's temple finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Christ, who perfectly embodies God's presence and constructs an eternal, spiritual dwelling for His people.