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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
1 Kings 5:9 meticulously details King Hiram of Tyre's logistical commitment to King Solomon concerning the transport of vast quantities of cedar and fir timber from Lebanon for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. This verse outlines the sophisticated process by which Hiram's skilled laborers would fell the trees, move them to the Mediterranean Sea, and then convey them by sea in floats to a designated location appointed by Solomon, ensuring their safe discharge. In return for this vital service, Hiram stipulated Solomon's responsibility to provide sustenance for his royal household, highlighting the mutually beneficial and intricately planned alliance that facilitated one of ancient Israel's most significant building projects.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Kings 5:9 is Detailed Description or Realism. The verse is remarkably specific in outlining the logistical steps involved in transporting the timber: from the felling in Lebanon, to the arduous movement to the sea, the innovative use of "floats," the sea journey to a designated place, and the final discharge. This meticulous detail grounds the narrative in a tangible reality, emphasizing the immense scale, complexity, and practical challenges of the Temple project. It also subtly employs Reciprocity, as the verse explicitly states Hiram's comprehensive service and then immediately follows with Solomon's reciprocal obligation, framing the agreement as a balanced and mutually beneficial exchange. This highlights the covenantal or treaty-like nature of the relationship between the two kings, built on trust and fulfilled promises.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 5:9, while seemingly focused on mundane logistics, profoundly illustrates how God often uses human ingenuity, international cooperation, and meticulous planning to accomplish His divine purposes. The building of the Temple, God's dwelling place among His people, was not achieved through miraculous, instantaneous means alone, but through the diligent, skilled labor of many, both Israelite and Gentile. This highlights a key theological principle: God partners with humanity, inviting us to participate in His work, even in the practical and seemingly ordinary aspects of life. It underscores the value of integrity in agreements and the importance of each party fulfilling their commitments for the success of a shared vision, demonstrating that even secular alliances can serve divine ends when conducted with faithfulness and wisdom.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of Hiram's logistical plan for the Temple timber serves as a powerful reminder that great undertakings, especially those for God's glory, often require meticulous planning, diverse skills, and collaborative effort. It teaches us the profound value of diligence in fulfilling our commitments, whether they are grand spiritual endeavors or seemingly mundane practical tasks. Just as Hiram outlined his part of the agreement with precision and intended to execute it faithfully, we are called to be people of our word, honoring our promises and responsibilities in all aspects of life, recognizing that even our practical efforts can contribute to God's overarching plan. This verse encourages us to embrace strategic planning, valuing the foresight and preparation necessary for success, and to appreciate the diverse contributions of others, understanding that God often uses various individuals, even those from different backgrounds and belief systems, to achieve His purposes, fostering unity and mutual respect within the body of Christ. Our faithfulness in the "small" things often paves the way for the "great" things God intends to do.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was timber from Lebanon so important for the Temple?
Answer: Lebanon was renowned throughout the ancient world for its vast forests of cedars, particularly the Cedars of Lebanon, which were highly prized building materials. These trees were known for their exceptional durability, natural resistance to decay and insects, beautiful grain, and distinct aromatic qualities. Unlike other common woods, cedar could withstand the test of time and provided a majestic, fragrant ambiance. Its use in the Temple, the most significant structure in Israel, symbolized the grandeur, permanence, and sacredness of God's dwelling place, reflecting the highest quality materials available. The demand for Lebanese cedar was so high that it became a significant trade commodity, as seen in this agreement for the Temple's construction, with specific details of its use found in 1 Kings 6:9-10.
What does "floats" mean in ancient maritime transport?
Answer: In the context of ancient maritime transport, "floats" (Hebrew: dôbᵉrâh) refers to large rafts constructed by lashing together numerous logs, typically cedar or fir, to be towed by ships along coastal waters. This method was a highly efficient and practical way to transport massive quantities of timber over long distances by sea, avoiding the arduous and costly overland routes through difficult terrain. The Phoenicians, masters of ancient seafaring, were particularly adept at this technique, showcasing their advanced engineering and logistical capabilities in moving heavy cargo for major construction projects like Solomon's Temple. This allowed for the delivery of raw materials directly to a port near the construction site, minimizing further land transport and significantly streamlining the building process.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous planning and international cooperation involved in bringing the timber from Lebanon to Jerusalem for the earthly Temple in 1 Kings 5:9 beautifully foreshadow the ultimate building project of God: His spiritual Temple, the Church, built upon the foundation of Jesus Christ. Just as the finest cedar was brought from afar, so too are believers, "living stones," gathered from every nation, tribe, and tongue to form a spiritual house for God, a dwelling place for His Spirit (1 Peter 2:4-5). Christ Himself is the ultimate "provision," the cornerstone upon whom this spiritual edifice rests, uniting Jew and Gentile into one body (Ephesians 2:19-22). The earthly Temple, though glorious, was a shadow of the true dwelling place of God, which is found in Christ's resurrected body, broken and raised again (John 2:19-21). The diligent labor of Hiram's servants and the careful transport of materials point to the divine wisdom and sovereign hand that orchestrated Christ's perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection—the ultimate "discharge" of God's redemptive plan, by which humanity is reconciled to God. Through Christ, the desire of God's household (His people) for communion and redemption is fully accomplished, far exceeding any earthly provision, culminating in the eternal city where God dwells with His people, and there is no longer need for a temple, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple (Revelation 21:3 and Revelation 21:22).