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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Kings 9:15–28. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
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.
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Summary
1 Kings 9:26 chronicles King Solomon's strategic establishment of a formidable navy, headquartered at the vital Red Sea ports of Eziongeber and Eloth, situated within the territory of Edom. This significant undertaking highlights the zenith of Solomon's reign, characterized by immense wealth, sophisticated administrative capabilities, and an expansive international reach. It symbolizes a period of unparalleled economic prosperity and diplomatic influence, enabling extensive maritime trade that brought valuable resources to Israel and solidified its status as a dominant regional power, reflecting the tangible blessings of God upon Solomon's kingdom.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of Solomon's reign, immediately following the completion of his monumental building projects—the Temple in Jerusalem and his royal palace—which spanned two decades (1 Kings 9:10). After God's reaffirmation of His covenant with Solomon, emphasizing the conditional nature of sustained blessing upon obedience (1 Kings 9:1-9), the focus shifts to Solomon's administrative and economic prowess. The preceding verses detail his dealings with Hiram of Tyre (1 Kings 9:10-14), his labor force organization (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 marks a pivotal transition from internal development to external economic expansion, setting the stage for the detailed descriptions of his vast wealth and international trade, culminating in the renowned visit of the Queen of Sheba in 1 Kings 10.
Historical & Cultural Context
Solomon's reign, typically dated to the 10th century BCE, represents the golden age of the united monarchy of Israel. During this era, Israel occupied a crucial geopolitical position, serving as a land bridge connecting major trade routes between Mesopotamia, Egypt, Arabia, and Africa. Eziongeber and Eloth (modern Eilat/Aqaba) were ancient, strategically vital port cities located at the northernmost tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, which is the eastern arm of the Red Sea. Control over these ports was indispensable for maritime trade with the Arabian Peninsula, particularly for acquiring gold and spices from regions like Ophir, and extending trade further into East Africa. The explicit mention of these ports being "in the land of Edom" underscores Israel's dominion or strong influence over this territory, which King David had previously subdued (2 Samuel 8:14). This control granted Solomon direct access to this vital Red Sea outlet, allowing him to bypass traditional, often more perilous, land routes. The construction of a sophisticated navy, likely facilitated by the maritime expertise of Phoenician allies from Tyre (1 Kings 9:27), highlights Israel's burgeoning economic and technological advancement under Solomon's astute leadership.
Key Themes
The establishment of Solomon's navy profoundly illustrates several key themes woven throughout the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it showcases Solomon's unparalleled wisdom and wealth, serving as a direct fulfillment of God's promise to him (1 Kings 3:12-13). The navy stands as a tangible symbol of the immense prosperity and strategic foresight that characterized his reign, enabling him to amass riches beyond any king before or after him (1 Kings 10:23). Secondly, it highlights Israel's international influence and reach, transforming the nation from a localized tribal confederacy into a formidable regional power with extensive global trade connections. This expansion of influence is a testament to 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 and prestige.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term (H590) refers to a fleet or collection of ships, signifying a substantial maritime enterprise rather than merely a few vessels. The construction of an entire "navy" underscores the grand scale of Solomon's ambition and the considerable resources at his command. It implies an organized, state-sponsored endeavor, reflecting a level of national infrastructure and economic power previously unmatched in Israel's history.
This specific location (H6100), 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 significant economic gain.
This term (H123) refers to the land of Edom, the territory inhabited by the descendants of Esau, Jacob's elder twin brother. Its inclusion here indicates that Eziongeber and Eloth, though vital ports for Israel, were geographically located within Edomite territory. This detail highlights the extent of Solomon's dominion or strong influence over surrounding nations, a testament to the fulfillment of promises regarding Israel's expanded borders and regional supremacy under a righteous king.
Verse Breakdown
"And king Solomon made a navy of ships"
This opening clause immediately establishes Solomon's direct initiative and the grandeur of his enterprise. The active verb "made" highlights his intentional and successful pursuit of maritime trade, signifying a major royal undertaking rather than a minor venture, and underscoring the immense power and wealth at his disposal.
"in Eziongeber, which [is] beside Eloth"
This part precisely locates the naval base. Eziongeber and Eloth were either twin cities or closely associated ports situated at the very tip of the Gulf of Aqaba. This meticulous geographical detail is crucial for understanding the strategic importance of the location, providing direct access to the Red Sea for trade routes extending south towards the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa.
"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 of Israel, was either under Israelite control or sufficiently influenced by Solomon to permit the construction and operation of such a vital naval base within its territory, showcasing the expansive reach of Solomon's dominion.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. Geographical Precision is prominently featured, with the specific naming of Eziongeber, Eloth, the Red Sea, and the land of Edom. This meticulous detail firmly grounds the narrative in a tangible reality, emphasizing the strategic importance of these locations for Solomon's economic ventures and the extensive influence of his kingdom. 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 sophisticated international relations. This phrase also carries rich Symbolism, as the navy itself is a powerful emblem of Solomon's unprecedented wealth, divine wisdom, and the flourishing state of his kingdom under God's blessing. Furthermore, the concise, declarative statement of Solomon's action ("made a navy") contributes to a sense of Authoritative Narration, presenting the king's achievements as established facts of historical record, reinforcing the biblical author's portrayal of Solomon's unparalleled reign.
Theological and Thematic Connections
The establishment of Solomon's navy at Eziongeber stands as a profound testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises of blessing and prosperity to Solomon. It vividly showcases the tangible results of divine wisdom granted to the king, leading to unprecedented national wealth and international 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 ultimately 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.
Reflection and Application
Solomon's navy at Eziongeber presents 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 immense potential for good and influence when human ingenuity and enterprise are aligned with divine principles. It encourages us to seek God's wisdom in all our endeavors, trusting that His provision can enable us to accomplish far more than we could imagine on our own.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Eziongeber so important for Solomon's kingdom?
Eziongeber was critically important due to 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). This control over a Red Sea port significantly boosted Israel's economic power and international standing, contributing to the unprecedented wealth described throughout 1 Kings 10.
What was the "Red Sea" in this specific context?
In the context of 1 Kings 9:26, 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, which were primarily focused on the eastern and southern regions.
Did Solomon truly control the "land of Edom" to build this navy?
Yes, by Solomon's time, Edom was indeed 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). Although there were instances of Edomite resistance and attempts to regain independence, such as Hadad the Edomite's rebellion (1 Kings 11:14-22), 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. This control was absolutely essential for accessing and utilizing these vital Red Sea ports for his extensive trade network.
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 and witness his glory (1 Kings 10:1-10), foreshadows Christ, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3). 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). 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). 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). 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), gathering a spiritual kingdom that spans all time and geography.