1 Kings 9:26

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.

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}.

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.

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

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

Context of 1 Kings 9:26

This verse details a significant aspect of King Solomon's reign, following the completion of his monumental building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem and his own palace. It highlights the vast extent of his economic power and international influence. Solomon's prosperity was a direct result of God's blessing and his own wisdom, which had brought unprecedented peace and wealth to Israel. This naval endeavor was crucial for expanding Israel's trade routes and acquiring valuable resources from distant lands, cementing his reputation as a formidable monarch.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Solomon's Prosperity and Power: The construction of a navy signifies Solomon's immense wealth and strategic foresight. This was a period of unparalleled economic flourishing for Israel, reflecting the fulfillment of God's covenant blessings when the nation walked in obedience. This naval enterprise underscores the immense wealth and prosperity of Solomon's kingdom, surpassing all other kings of the earth.
  • Strategic Geographical Locations: Eziongeber and Eloth (or Elath) were vital port cities located at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, an arm of the Red Sea. Their strategic position allowed Israel to engage in lucrative maritime trade, bypassing traditional land routes. The mention of the "land of Edom" indicates Israel's control or strong influence over this territory, which was essential for accessing these ports.
  • International Trade and Resources: The navy was built for mercantile purposes, facilitating trade with nations far to the south and east. The subsequent verse, 1 Kings 9:28, specifies Ophir as a destination, known for its gold, silver, and other precious goods. This illustrates the global reach of Solomon's commercial ventures.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Red Sea" (Hebrew: Yam Suph) in this context refers specifically to the Gulf of Aqaba, a northern inlet of the larger Red Sea. This distinction is important for understanding the precise geographical location of Solomon's naval base and its strategic significance for trade routes towards the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa.

Practical Application

King Solomon's achievements, including the establishment of this navy, serve as a testament to the blessings that can accompany wisdom and obedience to God. While Solomon's later life saw a decline due to his idolatry and disobedience, this particular period highlights the potential for prosperity and influence when a nation or individual aligns with divine principles. It reminds us of God's capacity to grant abundance and strategic advantage, and the importance of stewarding resources wisely. The narrative also subtly points to the transient nature of earthly power and wealth if not anchored in continued faithfulness, a theme explored more deeply in other parts of Solomon's story.

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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.