1 Kings 7:11

KJV

And above [were] costly stones, after the measures of hewed stones, and cedars.

KJV (with Strong's)

And above {H4605} were costly {H3368} stones {H68}, after the measures {H4060} of hewed stones {H1496}, and cedars {H730}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Above these were costly stones, cut to measure, and cedar-wood.

Berean Standard Bible

Above these were high-grade stones, cut to size, and cedar beams.

American Standard Version

And above were costly stones, even hewn stone, according to measure, and cedar-wood.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 7:11 provides a concise yet profound glimpse into the unparalleled quality and meticulous craftsmanship employed in King Solomon's extensive royal building projects in Jerusalem, particularly his palace complex. This verse, nestled within a detailed architectural description, emphasizes the use of "costly stones" and precisely "hewed stones" alongside "cedars," signifying not only the immense wealth and resources at Solomon's disposal but also the enduring grandeur and symbolic authority of his reign, reflecting a period of divinely blessed prosperity and peace.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within 1 Kings chapter 7, which meticulously details the construction of Solomon's royal palace complex, including the House of the Forest of Lebanon, the Hall of Pillars, and the Hall of the Throne. This account immediately follows the comprehensive description of the building of the Lord's Temple in [1 Kings chapter 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Construction of the Temple"). The narrative transition from the sacred Temple to the royal palace underscores the dual focus of Solomon's reign: devotion to God and the establishment of a powerful, opulent kingdom. The explicit mention that Solomon's palace took thirteen years to build ([1 Kings 7:1](/1_kings/7-1 "1 Kings 7:1 - Solomon's Palace Construction")) compared to the seven years for the Temple ([1 Kings 6:38](/1_kings/6-38 "1 Kings 6:38 - Temple Completion")) highlights the sheer scale and complexity of the royal residences. Verse 11 specifically describes the high-grade materials used in the upper sections or perhaps the upper stories of these grand structures, serving as a testament to their luxurious nature and the advanced building techniques employed.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Solomon's building projects were characteristic of powerful ancient Near Eastern monarchs who sought to solidify their rule and display their might through monumental architecture. Jerusalem, as the newly established capital, was transformed into a city befitting a king of Solomon's stature. The "costly stones" were likely quarried locally or imported, while the "cedars" were famously sourced from Lebanon, a testament to Solomon's extensive trade networks and diplomatic relations, particularly with Hiram, King of Tyre ([1 Kings 5:1-12](/1_kings/5-1-12 "1 Kings 5:1-12 - Solomon and Hiram's Treaty")). The term "hewed stones" points to sophisticated masonry techniques, involving precise cutting and shaping, often attributed to skilled Phoenician artisans who collaborated with Israelite builders. This level of precision and the use of such durable, high-quality materials ensured the longevity and impressive appearance of these structures, projecting an image of stability and divine favor to both internal subjects and foreign dignitaries.
* **Key Themes:** The detailed description in [1 Kings 7](/1_kings/7 "1 Kings 7 - Solomon's Palace and Temple Furnishings") and specifically in verse 11 contributes to several overarching themes. Firstly, it emphasizes **Exquisite Materials and Craftsmanship**, showcasing the pinnacle of ancient architectural and engineering skill. The meticulous preparation of "hewed stones" and the use of rare "cedars" from Lebanon reflect a commitment to excellence and beauty, not merely functionality. Secondly, these grand structures underscore **Solomon's Grandeur and Wealth**, illustrating the unparalleled prosperity and power he enjoyed, a direct fulfillment of God's promise to him ([1 Kings 3:13](/1_kings/3-13 "1 Kings 3:13 - God's Promise of Wealth to Solomon")). This wealth enabled him to commission projects that rivaled, and perhaps surpassed, those of contemporary empires. Finally, these buildings served as a **Symbol of Royal Authority and Stability**. The durable and beautiful construction projected an image of a secure, divinely sanctioned kingdom, a physical manifestation of the peace and prosperity that characterized the early part of Solomon's reign, as described in [1 Kings 4:20-25](/1_kings/4-20-25 "1 Kings 4:20-25 - Solomon's Prosperity and Peace").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Costly stones (Hebrew, _'ăbānîm yĕqārôt'_):** This phrase literally translates to "precious stones" or "valuable stones," indicating materials of significant worth, rarity, and aesthetic appeal. These were not ordinary building blocks but select, high-grade stones, likely chosen for their color, durability, and perhaps their ability to be polished to a fine finish. Their inclusion underscores the opulent nature of Solomon's palace, designed to convey immense wealth and prestige.
* **Hewed stones (Hebrew, _'ăbānîm gāzît'_):** This term refers to stones that have been meticulously cut, shaped, and smoothed with precision tools, distinguishing them from rough, unworked fieldstones. The process of hewing involved skilled masons who would quarry the stone and then meticulously dress it to exact dimensions, ensuring a tight, stable fit without the need for excessive mortar. This detail highlights the advanced masonry techniques employed, often associated with the highly skilled craftsmen from Tyre, demonstrating a commitment to structural integrity and aesthetic perfection.
* **Cedars (Hebrew, _'ărāzîm'_):** Referring specifically to cedarwood, primarily from Lebanon, this material was highly prized in the ancient Near East for its strength, durability, aromatic qualities, and resistance to decay and insects. Cedar was considered a luxury building material, often used for royal palaces and temples due to its prestige and longevity. Its inclusion alongside costly stones further emphasizes the lavishness and enduring quality of Solomon's construction, indicating the highest possible standard of materials.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And above [were] costly stones":** This initial phrase suggests that the "costly stones" were used in the upper sections of the structures, perhaps referring to the upper courses of the walls, the upper stories, or even decorative elements at a higher elevation. The emphasis is on the superior quality of the materials, indicating that even the less visible or higher parts of the building were constructed with the finest available resources, not merely for structural support but for aesthetic grandeur.
* **"after the measures of hewed stones":** This clause clarifies the preparation of these costly stones. They were not just valuable but also precisely cut and shaped according to specific dimensions and standards. The phrase "after the measures" implies a meticulous architectural plan and execution, where each stone was carefully fitted. This detail highlights the advanced engineering and craftsmanship involved, ensuring both the structural integrity and the visual perfection of the construction.
* **"and cedars":** The addition of "and cedars" indicates that these prestigious wooden beams and panels were used in conjunction with the stone. This could refer to cedar beams supporting upper floors or roofs, cedar paneling for interior walls, or other decorative elements made from this prized timber. The combination of high-quality stone and cedar created a truly magnificent and enduring edifice, characteristic of royal residences of the era.

#### Literary Devices
The verse, though brief, employs several literary devices to convey its message. **Emphasis** is achieved through the specific mention of "costly stones," "hewed stones," and "cedars," highlighting the superior quality of materials used. This selective detail draws the reader's attention to the opulence and meticulousness of Solomon's building projects. There is also an element of **Synecdoche** or **Merism**, where the mention of these specific, high-end materials (stones and cedars) stands in for the entirety of the luxurious and durable construction, representing the overall quality of the palace. Furthermore, the description functions as **Symbolism**, where the physical grandeur of the palace, built with such precious and well-crafted materials, symbolizes Solomon's immense wealth, his divinely blessed reign, and the stability and prestige of his kingdom. The enduring nature of these materials also subtly foreshadows the intended longevity and lasting legacy of Solomon's rule.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The lavishness and meticulous craftsmanship evident in Solomon's palace, as described in 1 Kings 7:11, serve as a profound theological statement about the nature of earthly kingdoms under divine blessing. While the Temple's construction showcased Israel's devotion to God, the palace's grandeur reflected God's abundant provision and favor upon Solomon, demonstrating that true wisdom and obedience could lead to unparalleled earthly prosperity. However, this earthly glory, built with "costly stones" and "cedars," also serves as a subtle reminder of the temporary nature of all human achievements and the transient beauty of this world. The ultimate, enduring building is not made with human hands, but is spiritual and eternal, pointing towards a greater reality.

* [Haggai 1:4](/haggai/1-4 "Haggai 1:4 - Dwelling in Paneled Houses")
* [Proverbs 24:3-4](/proverbs/24-3-4 "Proverbs 24:3-4 - Wisdom Builds a House")
* [Isaiah 54:11-12](/isaiah/54-11-12 "Isaiah 54:11-12 - Future Glory of Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The description of Solomon's palace, built with such "costly stones" and "cedars," challenges us to consider the quality and intentionality we bring to our own "building projects," whether they are our personal character, our relationships, our work, or our contributions to the community and the church. Just as Solomon used the finest materials for his earthly dwelling, and even more so for God's Temple, we are called to offer our "costly stones"—our best efforts, our unique talents, our most precious resources, and our unwavering dedication—in service to God and for His glory. This isn't about accumulating material wealth, but about cultivating a spirit of excellence and stewardship in all endeavors. It encourages us to build with integrity, precision, and a long-term perspective, recognizing that what we build, both spiritually and practically, should reflect the worthiness of the God we serve, aiming for lasting impact and beauty that honors Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "costly stones" (talents, resources, time) has God entrusted to me, and how am I using them with excellence for His glory?**
* **In what areas of my life am I building with "hewed stones" (intentionality, precision, integrity) versus "rough stones" (carelessness, mediocrity)?**
* **How does the pursuit of excellence in my daily tasks reflect my understanding of God's character and His worthiness?**
* **What enduring spiritual "structure" am I contributing to, and what quality of "materials" am I bringing to that work?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the detailed description of Solomon's palace after the Temple?**

Answer: The detailed description of Solomon's palace complex, including the House of the Forest of Lebanon, immediately following the Temple's construction, serves several significant purposes. Firstly, it highlights the immense **wealth and power** of Solomon's reign, demonstrating the fulfillment of God's promise to grant him riches and honor ([1 Kings 3:13](/1_kings/3-13 "1 Kings 3:13 - God's Promise of Wealth to Solomon")). Secondly, it underscores the **scale of his building program**, which was not limited to sacred structures but encompassed the entire infrastructure of his kingdom, reflecting his status as a major regional power. Thirdly, it provides a **contrast and comparison** between the sacred and the secular. While the Temple was built for God's dwelling, the palace was for the king, yet both employed the finest materials and craftsmanship, illustrating the king's dedication to both divine and earthly authority. Finally, the lengthy description of the palace (thirteen years of construction, [1 Kings 7:1](/1_kings/7-1 "1 Kings 7:1 - Solomon's Palace Construction")) compared to the Temple (seven years, [1 Kings 6:38](/1_kings/6-38 "1 Kings 6:38 - Temple Completion")) subtly foreshadows the eventual shift in Solomon's priorities and the potential for human glory to overshadow divine focus, a theme that becomes more prominent later in his reign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Kings 7:11 describes the physical grandeur of an earthly king's dwelling, it implicitly points to the ultimate and eternal King, Jesus Christ. Solomon's palace, built with "costly stones" and "cedars," represented the pinnacle of human architectural achievement and the temporary glory of an earthly kingdom. Yet, in Christ, we see the true and everlasting dwelling of God among humanity. Jesus himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking of the temple of his body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus and the Temple")). He is the foundation and the cornerstone, the most "costly stone" upon which God's eternal spiritual house is built ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ as the Cornerstone"); [1 Peter 2:6](/1_peter/2-6 "1 Peter 2:6 - Christ, the Living Stone")). Believers, through faith in Christ, become "living stones" built into this spiritual house, a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")). The meticulous craftsmanship and precious materials of Solomon's palace foreshadow the perfect, divine design and the invaluable worth of the Church, the body of Christ, which is being built up by God Himself. Ultimately, the glory of Solomon's palace pales in comparison to the New Jerusalem, the eternal city, whose foundations are adorned with every kind of "costly stone" and whose gates are single pearls, where God and the Lamb are its temple ([Revelation 21:18-21](/revelation/21-18-21 "Revelation 21:18-21 - New Jerusalem's Foundations")), revealing the ultimate, Christ-centered fulfillment of God's dwelling with His people.

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

Ephesians 2:20

And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner [stone];

Ephesians 2:22

In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

1 Peter 2:5

Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.