1 Kings 9:26

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And king {H4428} Solomon {H8010} made {H6213} a navy of ships {H590} in Eziongeber {H6100}, which is beside Eloth {H359}, on the shore {H8193} of the Red {H5488} sea {H3220}, in the land {H776} of Edom {H123}.

Complete Jewish Bible

King Shlomo built a fleet of ships in 'Etzyon-Gever, by Elot on the shore of the Sea of Suf in the land of Edom.

Berean Standard Bible

King Solomon also assembled a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth in Edom, on the shore of the Red Sea.

American Standard Version

And king Solomon made a navy of ships in Ezion-geber, which is beside Eloth, on the shore of the Red Sea, in the land of Edom.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 9:26 records King Solomon's establishment of a formidable navy at the strategically vital ports of Eziongeber and Eloth, located on the Gulf of Aqaba within the territory of Edom. This undertaking underscores the immense wealth, administrative prowess, and international reach of Solomon's kingdom. It signifies a period of unprecedented economic prosperity and diplomatic influence, enabling extensive maritime trade that brought valuable resources and further cemented Israel's status as a dominant regional power, reflecting the tangible blessings of God upon Solomon's reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated immediately after the completion of Solomon's monumental building projects, including the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem and his own opulent palace, which occupied him for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). Following these grand constructions, God reiterates His covenant with Solomon, emphasizing the conditional nature of continued blessing upon obedience (1 Kings 9:1-9). The narrative then shifts to Solomon's administrative and economic activities, detailing his dealings with Hiram of Tyre (1 Kings 9:10-14), his use of forced labor (1 Kings 9:15-23), and the relocation of Pharaoh's daughter (1 Kings 9:24). The establishment of the navy in [1 Kings 9:26](/1_kings/9-26 "1 Kings 9:26 - Solomon's Navy at Eziongeber") marks a transition from internal development to external economic expansion, setting the stage for the description of his vast wealth and international trade, culminating in the famed visit of the Queen of Sheba in [1 Kings 10](/1_kings/10 "1 Kings 10 - The Queen of Sheba's Visit and Solomon's Riches").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Solomon's reign, typically dated to the 10th century BCE, represents the zenith of the united monarchy of Israel. At this time, Israel was strategically positioned at the crossroads of major trade routes between Mesopotamia, Egypt, Arabia, and Africa. Eziongeber and Eloth (modern Eilat/Aqaba) were ancient port cities located at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, the eastern arm of the Red Sea. Their control was crucial for maritime trade with the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa. The mention of "the land of Edom" indicates Israel's dominion or strong influence over this territory, which David had previously conquered ([2 Samuel 8:14](/2_samuel/8-14 "2 Samuel 8:14 - David's Conquest of Edom")). This control allowed Solomon direct access to this vital Red Sea outlet, bypassing traditional land routes and enabling direct sea trade. The construction of a navy, likely with the expertise of Phoenician allies from Tyre ([1 Kings 9:27](/1_kings/9-27 "1 Kings 9:27 - Hiram's Servants with Solomon's Navy")), was a sophisticated undertaking, highlighting Israel's growing economic and technological advancement under Solomon.
* **Key Themes:** The establishment of Solomon's navy vividly illustrates several key themes within the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it showcases **Solomon's unparalleled wisdom and wealth**, a direct fulfillment of God's promise to him (see [1 Kings 3:12-13](/1_kings/3-12 "1 Kings 3:12-13 - God's Promise of Wisdom and Riches to Solomon")). The navy is a tangible symbol of the immense prosperity and strategic foresight that characterized his reign, allowing him to amass riches beyond any king before or after him ([1 Kings 10:23](/1_kings/10-23 "1 Kings 10:23 - Solomon's Unrivaled Wealth")). Secondly, it highlights **Israel's international influence and reach**, transforming the nation from an inward-looking tribal confederacy into a formidable regional power with global trade connections. This expansion of influence is a testament to the **divine blessing and covenant faithfulness** when the king and nation walked in obedience, even if this obedience was not perfectly sustained throughout Solomon's later life. Lastly, the narrative subtly introduces the theme of **stewardship of resources**, demonstrating how Solomon utilized the vast wealth and opportunities God provided to further expand his kingdom's economic power.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Navy (Hebrew, _'oni_):** This term refers to a fleet or collection of ships, indicating a significant maritime enterprise rather than just a few vessels. The construction of an entire "navy" underscores the scale of Solomon's ambition and the substantial resources he commanded. It implies an organized, state-sponsored endeavor, reflecting a level of national infrastructure and economic power previously unseen in Israel.
* **Eziongeber (Hebrew, _'Etzyon Gever_):** This specific location, meaning "Giant's Backbone" or "Man's Spine," was a historically significant port at the northernmost point of the Gulf of Aqaba. Its mention here connects Solomon's reign to earlier biblical history, as it was an Israelite encampment during the Exodus (Numbers 33:35-36). Solomon's re-establishment and utilization of this port demonstrate his strategic control over crucial trade routes and his ability to leverage geographical advantages for economic gain.
* **Red Sea (Hebrew, _Yam Suph_):** While "Red Sea" often refers to the larger body of water, in this context, _Yam Suph_ specifically designates the Gulf of Aqaba (also known as the Gulf of Eilat). The Hebrew term literally means "Sea of Reeds" or "End Sea," and its precise identification here is vital for understanding the specific trade routes Solomon's navy would have taken, primarily south towards Ophir and other eastern lands.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And king Solomon made a navy of ships":** This clause emphasizes Solomon's direct initiative and the grandeur of his enterprise. It was not a small-scale venture but a royal undertaking, signifying the immense power and wealth at his disposal. The active verb "made" highlights his intentional and successful pursuit of maritime trade.
* **"in Eziongeber, which [is] beside Eloth":** This part precisely locates the naval base. Eziongeber and Eloth were twin cities or closely associated ports at the very tip of the Gulf of Aqaba. This geographical detail is crucial for understanding the strategic importance of the location, providing direct access to the sea for trade routes extending south and east.
* **"on the shore of the Red sea, in the land of Edom":** This final phrase further clarifies the geographical and political context. It confirms the location on the Gulf of Aqaba (the "Red Sea" or _Yam Suph_) and, significantly, places it "in the land of Edom." This indicates that Edom, traditionally an adversary, was either under Israelite control or sufficiently influenced by Solomon to allow for the construction and operation of such a vital naval base within its territory, showcasing the extent of Solomon's dominion.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message. **Geographical Precision** is prominent, with the specific naming of Eziongeber, Eloth, the Red Sea, and the land of Edom. This meticulous detail grounds the narrative in a tangible reality, emphasizing the strategic importance of these locations for Solomon's economic ventures and the extent of his kingdom's influence. The phrase "navy of ships" functions as a **Metonymy**, where the part (the fleet) stands for the whole enterprise of maritime trade, economic expansion, and international relations. This phrase also carries **Symbolism**, as the navy itself is a powerful symbol of Solomon's unprecedented wealth, wisdom, and the flourishing state of his kingdom under divine blessing. The concise, declarative statement of Solomon's action ("made a navy") also contributes to a sense of **Authoritative Narration**, presenting the king's achievements as established facts of historical record.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The establishment of Solomon's navy at Eziongeber is a profound testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises of blessing and prosperity to Solomon. It showcases the tangible results of divine wisdom granted to the king, leading to unprecedented national wealth and influence. This period of flourishing, however, also serves as a subtle reminder of the conditional nature of God's covenant, as Solomon's later deviation from complete obedience led to a decline in his kingdom's fortunes. The navy, symbolizing global reach and abundant resources, connects to the broader biblical theme of God's desire to bless His people when they walk in righteousness, enabling them to be a light and a source of blessing to the nations. It echoes the promises of prosperity and dominion given to Israel if they obeyed the Lord's commands, as outlined in the Mosaic covenant.

* [1 Kings 10:22](/1_kings/10-22 "1 Kings 10:22 - Solomon's Fleet of Tarshish and its Riches")
* [2 Chronicles 8:17-18](/2_chronicles/8-17 "2 Chronicles 8:17-18 - Solomon's Expedition to Ophir from Eziongeber")
* [Deuteronomy 28:12](/deuteronomy/28-12 "Deuteronomy 28:12 - God's Promise of Abundance and Open Heavens")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's navy at Eziongeber is a powerful image of God's capacity to grant abundance and strategic advantage when His people walk in wisdom and obedience. This account challenges us to consider how God might be calling us to expand our "reach" for His kingdom, whether through our vocations, resources, or influence. It reminds us that divine blessing often manifests in tangible ways, providing us with the means to engage with the world strategically and effectively. We are called to be wise stewards of the opportunities, talents, and resources God entrusts to us, using them not for personal aggrandizement alone, but for the flourishing of God's purposes in the world. While Solomon's later life serves as a cautionary tale of how earthly prosperity can lead to spiritual compromise if not continually anchored in faithfulness, this particular moment highlights the potential for immense good and influence when human ingenuity and enterprise are aligned with divine principles.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Eziongebers" (strategic opportunities or resources) has God placed in my life, and how am I stewarding them for His glory?**
* **How can I leverage my unique skills, position, or resources to expand the influence of God's kingdom in my sphere of influence?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to rely on earthly wealth or power rather than continued faithfulness to God, as Solomon eventually did?**

### FAQ
**Why was Eziongeber so important for Solomon's kingdom?**

Answer: Eziongeber was critically important because of its strategic geographical location at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, the eastern arm of the Red Sea. This gave Solomon's kingdom direct access to lucrative maritime trade routes that extended south towards the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa. By establishing a naval base here, Solomon could bypass traditional, often more dangerous, land routes and engage in direct sea trade, particularly with places like Ophir for gold ([1 Kings 9:28](/1_kings/9-28 "1 Kings 9:28 - Solomon's Ships Bring Gold from Ophir")). This control over a Red Sea port significantly boosted Israel's economic power and international standing.

**What was the "Red Sea" in this specific context?**

Answer: In the context of [1 Kings 9:26](/1_kings/9-26 "1 Kings 9:26 - Solomon's Navy at Eziongeber"), the "Red Sea" (Hebrew: _Yam Suph_) specifically refers to the Gulf of Aqaba. This is the narrow eastern inlet of the larger Red Sea, separating the Arabian Peninsula from the Sinai Peninsula. This distinction is crucial for understanding the precise location of Solomon's naval operations and the direction of his maritime trade routes.

**Did Solomon truly control the "land of Edom" to build this navy?**

Answer: Yes, by Solomon's time, Edom was under Israelite control or strong influence. King David had previously conquered Edom, placing garrisons throughout the land and making the Edomites servants to Israel ([2 Samuel 8:14](/2_samuel/8-14 "2 Samuel 8:14 - David's Conquest of Edom")). Although there were instances of Edomite resistance, such as Hadad the Edomite ([1 Kings 11:14-22](/1_kings/11-14 "1 Kings 11:14-22 - Hadad the Edomite's Rebellion")), Solomon's ability to establish and operate a major naval base in Eziongeber, explicitly stated to be "in the land of Edom," confirms his effective dominion over this territory, which was essential for accessing these vital ports.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Solomon's reign, marked by unparalleled wisdom, peace, and prosperity, and exemplified by the global reach of his navy, serves as a powerful earthly type of the far greater, eternal reign of Jesus Christ. Solomon's wisdom, which drew kings and queens from distant lands to hear him ([1 Kings 10:1-10](/1_kings/10-1 "1 Kings 10:1-10 - The Queen of Sheba Visits Solomon")), foreshadows Christ, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, the Treasure of Wisdom")). The immense wealth and international trade facilitated by Solomon's navy, bringing gold and precious goods from Ophir, point to the spiritual riches found in Christ, who, "though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich" ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Incarnation and Our Riches")). Solomon's dominion over Edom and his access to the "ends of the earth" through maritime trade prefigure Christ's universal sovereignty, for "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission")). Unlike Solomon's temporary and ultimately flawed reign, Christ's kingdom is eternal and unshakable, bringing true peace and spiritual prosperity that transcends all earthly empires and their fleeting glories ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace and His Eternal Kingdom")). The "navy of ships" of Solomon brought material wealth; Christ's mission brings the ultimate treasure—redemption and eternal life—to people from "every tribe and language and people and nation" ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - The Lamb's Worthiness to Open the Scroll")).

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

1 Kings 22:48

Jehoshaphat made ships of Tharshish to go to Ophir for gold: but they went not; for the ships were broken at Eziongeber.

Deuteronomy 2:8

¶ And when we passed by from our brethren the children of Esau, which dwelt in Seir, through the way of the plain from Elath, and from Eziongaber, we turned and passed by the way of the wilderness of Moab.

Numbers 33:35

And they departed from Ebronah, and encamped at Eziongaber.

2 Chronicles 8:11

And Solomon brought up the daughter of Pharaoh out of the city of David unto the house that he had built for her: for he said, My wife shall not dwell in the house of David king of Israel, because [the places are] holy, whereunto the ark of the LORD hath come.

2 Chronicles 8:12

¶ Then Solomon offered burnt offerings unto the LORD on the altar of the LORD, which he had built before the porch,

2 Kings 14:22

He built Elath, and restored it to Judah, after that the king slept with his fathers.

2 Chronicles 8:17

Then went Solomon to Eziongeber, and to Eloth, at the sea side in the land of Edom.