TRV
Translation
King James Version
¶ And this is the reason of the levy which king Solomon raised; for to build the house of the LORD, and his own house, and Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.
Complete Jewish Bible
Following is the account of the forced labor levied by King Shlomo for building the house of ADONAI, his own palace, the Millo, the wall of Yerushalayim, and the cities of Hatzor, Megiddo and Gezer.
Berean Standard Bible
This is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon imposed to build the house of the LORD, his own palace, the supporting terraces, and the wall of Jerusalem, as well as Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer.
American Standard Version
And this is the reason of the levy which king Solomon raised, to build the house of Jehovah, and his own house, and Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.
World English Bible Messianic
This is the reason of the levy which king Solomon raised, to build the LORD’s house, and his own house, and Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And this is the cause of the tribute why King Salomon raised tribute, to wit, to builde the house of the Lord, and his owne house, and Millo, and the wall of Ierusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.
Young's Literal Translation
And this is the matter of the tribute that king Solomon hath lifted up, to build the house of Jehovah, and his own house, and Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer,
See on the biblical-era map
In the KJVVerse 9,067 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on 1 Kings 9 verses 15–28
15 ¶ And this is the reason of the levy which king Solomon raised; for to build the house of the LORD, and his own house, and Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.
16 For Pharaoh king of Egypt had gone up, and taken Gezer, and burnt it with fire, and slain the Canaanites that dwelt in the city, and given it for a present unto his daughter, Solomon's wife.
17 And Solomon built Gezer, and Bethhoron the nether,
18 And Baalath, and Tadmor in the wilderness, in the land,
19 And all the cities of store that Solomon had, and cities for his chariots, and cities for his horsemen, and that which Solomon desired to build in Jerusalem, and in Lebanon, and in all the land of his dominion.
20 And all the people that were left of the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, which were not of the children of Israel,
21 Their children that were left after them in the land, whom the children of Israel also were not able utterly to destroy, upon those did Solomon levy a tribute of bondservice unto this day.
22 But of the children of Israel did Solomon make no bondmen: but they were men of war, and his servants, and his princes, and his captains, and rulers of his chariots, and his horsemen.
23 These were the chief of the officers that were over Solomon's work, five hundred and fifty, which bare rule over the people that wrought in the work.
24 But Pharaoh's daughter came up out of the city of David unto her house which Solomon had built for her: then did he build Millo.
25 And three times in a year did Solomon offer burnt offerings and peace offerings upon the altar which he built unto the LORD, and he burnt incense upon the altar that was before the LORD. So he finished the house.
26 And king Solomon made a navy of ships in Eziongeber, which is beside Eloth, on the shore of the Red sea, in the land of Edom.
27 And Hiram sent in the navy his servants, shipmen that had knowledge of the sea, with the servants of Solomon.
28 And they came to Ophir, and fetched from thence gold, four hundred and twenty talents, and brought it to king Solomon.
We have here a further account of Solomon's greatness.
I. His buildings. He raised a great levy both of men and money, because he projected a great deal of building, which would both employ many hands and put him to a vast expense, Kg1 9:15. And he was a wise builder, who sat down first, and counted the cost, and would not begin to build till he found himself able to finish. Perhaps there was some complaint of the heaviness of the taxes, which the historian excuses from the greatness of his undertakings. He raised it, not for war (as other princes), which would spend the blood of his subjects, but for building, which would require only their labour and purses. Perhaps David observed Solomon's genius to lie towards building, and foresaw he would have his head and hands full of it, when he penned that song of degrees for Solomon, which begins, Except the Lord build the house, those labour in vain that build it (Psa 127:1), directing him to acknowledge God in all his ways, and, by prayer and faith in his providence, to take him along with him in all his designs of this kind. And Solomon verily began his work at the right end, for he built God's house first, and finished that before he began his own; and then God blessed him, and he prospered in all his other buildings. If we begin with God, he will go on with us. Let the first-fruits be his, and the after-fruits will the more comfortably be ours, Mat 6:33. Solomon built a church first and then he was enabled to build houses, and cities, and walls. Those consult not their own interest that defer to the last what they design for pious uses. The further order in Solomon's buildings is observable. God's house first for religion, then his own for his own convenience, then a house for his wife, to which she removed as soon as it was ready for her (Kg1 9:24), then Millo, the town-house or guild-hall, then the wall of Jerusalem, the royal city, then some cities of note and strength in the country, which were decayed and unfortified, Hazor, Megiddo, etc. As he rebuilt these at his own charge, the inhabitants would be not only his subjects, but his tenants, which would increase the revenues of the crown for the benefit of his successors. Among the rest, he built Gezer, which Pharaoh took out of the hands of the Canaanites, and made a present of to his daughter, Solomon's wife, Kg1 9:16. See how God maketh the earth to help the woman. Solomon was not himself a warlike prince, but the king of Egypt, who was, took cities for him to build. Then he built cities for convenience, for store, for his chariots, and for his horsemen, Kg1 9:19. And, lastly, he built for pleasure in Lebanon, for his hunting perhaps, or other diversions there. Let piety begin, and profit proceed, and leave pleasure to the last.
II. His workmen and servants. In doing such great works, he must needs employ abundance of workmen. The honour of great men is borrowed from their inferiors, who do that which they have the credit of. 1. Solomon employed those who remained of the conquered and devoted nations in all the slavish work, Kg1 9:20, Kg1 9:21. We may suppose that they renounced their idolatry and submitted to Solomon's government, so that he could not, in honour, utterly destroy them, and they were so poor that he could not levy money on them; therefore he served himself of their labour. Herein he observed God's law (Lev 25:44, Thy bondmen shall be of the heathen), and fulfilled Noah's curse upon Canaan, A servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren, Gen 9:25. 2. He employed Israelites in the more creditable services (Kg1 9:22, Kg1 9:23): Of them he made no bondmen, for they were God's freemen, but he made them soldiers and courtiers, and gave them offices, as he saw them qualified, among his chariots and horsemen, appointing some to support the service of the inferior labourers. Thus he preserved the dignity and liberty of Israel and honoured their relation to God as a kingdom of priests.
III. His piety and devotion (Kg1 9:25): Three times in a year he offered burnt-offerings extraordinary (namely, at the three yearly feasts, the passover, pentecost, and feast of tabernacles) in honour of the divine institution, besides what he offered at other times, both statedly and upon special occasions. With his sacrifices he burnt incense, not himself (that was king Uzziah's crime), but the priest for him, at his charge, and for his particular use. It is said, He offered on the altar which he himself built. He took care to build it, and then, 1. He himself made use of it. Many will assist the devotions of others that neglect their own. Solomon did not think his building an altar would excuse him from sacrificing, but rather engage him the more to it. 2. He himself had the benefit and comfort of it. Whatever pains we take, for the support of religion, to the glory of God and the edification of others, we ourselves are likely to have the advantage of it.
IV. His merchandise. He built a fleet of trading ships at Ezion-geber (Kg1 9:26), a port on the coast of the Red Sea, the furthest stage of the Israelites when they wandered in the wilderness, Num 33:35. Probably that wilderness now began to be peopled by the Edomites, which it was not then. To them this port had belonged, but, David having subdued the Edomites, it now pertained to the crown of Judah. The fleet traded to Ophir in the East Indies, supposed to be that which is now called Ceylon. Gold was the commodity traded for, substantial wealth. It should seem, Solomon had before been Hiram's partner, or put a venture into his ships, which made him a rich return of 120 talents (Kg1 9:14), which encouraged him to build a fleet of his own. The success of others in any employment should quicken our industry; for in all labour there is profit. Solomon sent his own servants as factors, and merchants, and super-cargoes, but hired Tyrians for sailors, for they had knowledge of the sea, Kg1 9:27. Thus one nation needs another, Providence so ordering it that there may be mutual commerce and assistance; for not only as Christians, but as men, we are members one of another. The fleet brought home to Solomon 420 talents of gold, Kg1 9:28. Canaan, the holy land, the glory of all lands, had no gold in it, which teaches us that that part of the wealth of this world which is for hoarding and trading is not the best part of it, but that which is more immediately for the present support and comfort of life, our own and others'; such were the productions of Canaan. Solomon got much by his merchandise, but, it should seem, David got much more by his conquests. What were Solomon's 420 talents to David's 100,000 talents of gold? Ch1 22:14; Ch1 29:4. Solomon got much by his merchandise, and yet has directed us to a better trade, within reach of the poorest, having assured us from his own experience of both that the merchandise of wisdom is better than the merchandise of silver and the gain thereof than fine gold, Pro 3:14.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 15–28. Public domain.
Copy as
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as
Continue studying 1 Kings 9:15 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 9:15 serves as a foundational explanatory statement, detailing the extensive and ambitious building program initiated by King Solomon. It explicitly states that the "levy"—a system of forced labor and conscription—was implemented to fund and execute these monumental projects, which included the construction of the magnificent Temple, his own sprawling palace complex, the fortification of Jerusalem (Millo and its wall), and the strategic rebuilding of key fortress cities like Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer, all aimed at solidifying his kingdom's infrastructure, defense, and prestige.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
1 Kings 9:15 employs several effective literary devices. Primarily, it functions as a Summary Statement, concisely encapsulating the vast scope of Solomon's building endeavors and the means by which they were financed, providing a retrospective explanation for the preceding narrative of construction. The verse also utilizes Enumeration or Listing, as it systematically itemizes the various major projects undertaken: the Temple, the palace, Millo, the wall of Jerusalem, Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer. This list provides a concrete and comprehensive overview of Solomon's architectural achievements. Furthermore, there is an implicit Juxtaposition between the "house of the LORD" and "his own house," subtly highlighting the tension between sacred devotion and personal ambition that would characterize much of Solomon's reign. Finally, the verse presents a clear Cause and Effect relationship, stating that the "levy" (the cause) was implemented "for to build" (the effect) these numerous structures, providing a direct explanation for the burden placed upon the populace.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 9:15, while seemingly a straightforward administrative detail, carries profound theological and thematic weight. It reveals the immense scale of Solomon's kingdom and the tangible expressions of his divinely granted wisdom and wealth. The construction of the Temple, "the house of the LORD," stands as a testament to Israel's covenant relationship with God and the establishment of a central place for worship and sacrifice. Yet, the verse also subtly introduces the tension inherent in human endeavors, even those for God's glory. The "levy" points to the human cost of grand visions and the potential for royal authority to become burdensome, foreshadowing the later complaints against Solomon's heavy yoke. It raises questions about stewardship, the ethics of power, and the balance between national development and the well-being of the people. Ultimately, it highlights that even divinely blessed prosperity, when pursued without ultimate humility and justice, can lead to societal strain and spiritual compromise, serving as a cautionary tale for all who wield power.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Kings 9:15 offers a powerful lens through which to examine leadership, resource management, and the ethical implications of grand endeavors. Solomon's building program, while impressive and initially divinely sanctioned, ultimately came at a significant human cost through the "levy." This prompts us to consider the "cost" of our own ambitions, whether personal, communal, or societal. Are we mindful of the burdens we place on others, even when pursuing seemingly noble or God-honoring goals? For leaders, this verse serves as a sober reminder that true success is not merely measured by outward accomplishments or impressive structures, but by the well-being, justice, and flourishing of those under one's care. It challenges us to discern between God's true will and our own desires for prestige or power, ensuring that our means are as righteous as our ends. We are called to compassionate and wise stewardship, learning from Solomon's successes in building but also from the eventual societal strain caused by his policies.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What exactly was the "levy" Solomon imposed, and who was affected by it?
Answer: The "levy" (Hebrew: mas) refers to a system of forced labor or conscription imposed by King Solomon. It was a common practice in the ancient Near East for large-scale public works. Initially, Solomon primarily used the non-Israelite populations residing within his kingdom for this labor, as detailed in 1 Kings 9:20-21, stating that "all the people that were left of the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites...upon those did Solomon levy a tribute of bondservice unto this day." However, as his building projects continued and expanded, the burden of the levy eventually extended to the Israelites themselves, though they were typically overseers rather than common laborers (1 Kings 5:13-14). This heavy imposition of labor and taxes became a significant grievance that contributed to the division of the kingdom after Solomon's death, as the people complained to his son Rehoboam about the "grievous service" and "heavy yoke" (1 Kings 12:4).
Why were Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer specifically mentioned alongside Jerusalem's fortifications?
Answer: Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer were strategically vital fortress cities located at key geographical crossroads and entry points into Israel. Their inclusion in Solomon's extensive building program, alongside the fortifications of Jerusalem, underscores his comprehensive strategy for national security and control. Hazor, in the north, controlled access to Syria and Mesopotamia. Megiddo, in the Jezreel Valley, commanded the major trade route (Via Maris) connecting Egypt and Mesopotamia. Gezer, in the Shephelah, guarded the coastal plain and routes to Jerusalem. Archaeological excavations at these sites have consistently revealed distinct Solomonic-era gate complexes, casemate walls, and administrative structures, confirming the biblical account of their significant rebuilding and strengthening. Their fortification was crucial for defending the kingdom's borders, controlling trade routes, and projecting Solomon's power throughout his realm, demonstrating a clear focus on both internal and external security.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Kings 9:15, detailing Solomon's grand building projects and the "levy" that enabled them, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Jesus Christ. Solomon, the wise king, built a magnificent physical Temple and established an earthly kingdom of unparalleled glory, yet it was achieved through human effort and a "levy" that ultimately burdened his people. In contrast, Jesus Christ is the greater Solomon, the true builder of God's eternal house. He declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking of the temple of His body (John 2:19-21). Through His death and resurrection, Christ built the spiritual Temple, the Church, composed of living stones—believers united in Him (1 Peter 2:4-5). Unlike Solomon's levy, which imposed a cost on others, Christ bore the ultimate cost Himself, offering His own life as the perfect sacrifice to build His kingdom and redeem His people. He is the true foundation and cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-22), establishing a spiritual kingdom "not of this world" (John 18:36), built not by forced labor but by grace and the free gift of the Holy Spirit. Solomon's wisdom and glory, though great, were but a shadow of the perfect wisdom and eternal glory found in Christ, of whom it was said, "a greater than Solomon is here" (Matthew 12:42).