1 Kings 9:27

KJV

And Hiram sent in the navy his servants, shipmen that had knowledge of the sea, with the servants of Solomon.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Hiram {H2438} sent {H7971} in the navy {H590} his servants {H5650}, shipmen {H582}{H591} that had knowledge {H3045} of the sea {H3220}, with the servants {H5650} of Solomon {H8010}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Hiram sent some of his own servants, experienced sailors who understood the sea, to serve with Shlomo's servants.

Berean Standard Bible

And Hiram sent his servants, men who knew the sea, to serve in the fleet with Solomon’s servants.

American Standard Version

And Hiram sent in the navy his servants, shipmen that had knowledge of the sea, with the servants of Solomon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 9:27 details a pivotal aspect of King Solomon's ambitious maritime trade ventures: the indispensable partnership with King Hiram of Tyre. Following the construction of Solomon's fleet at Ezion-geber, this verse highlights Hiram's provision of highly skilled Phoenician mariners, described as "shipmen that had knowledge of the sea," to accompany Solomon's own less experienced servants. This collaboration was absolutely vital for the success of these long-distance expeditions, primarily aimed at acquiring vast quantities of valuable resources like gold from Ophir, thereby underscoring Solomon's administrative wisdom in leveraging international expertise for the prosperity and glory of his kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a broader narrative in [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings - The Reign of Kings") that meticulously chronicles the zenith of King Solomon's reign, focusing on his monumental building projects, the consolidation of his immense wealth, and the expansion of his kingdom's influence. Immediately preceding [1 Kings 9:27](/1_kings/9-27 "1 Kings 9:27 - Hiram's Shipmen"), [1 Kings 9:26](/1_kings/9-26 "1 Kings 9:26 - Solomon's Fleet at Ezion-geber") sets the stage by describing Solomon's construction of a formidable fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, a crucial port located at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba. The subsequent verse, [1 Kings 9:28](/1_kings/9-28 "1 Kings 9:28 - Gold from Ophir"), immediately reveals the spectacular success and purpose of these maritime endeavors: the acquisition of an astonishing quantity of gold from Ophir. Thus, [1 Kings 9:27](/1_kings/9-27 "1 Kings 9:27 - Hiram's Shipmen") functions as a critical explanatory link, elucidating *how* these extraordinarily successful and lucrative expeditions were made possible through a strategic and divinely blessed international cooperation, thereby further showcasing Solomon's unparalleled administrative acumen and the divine favor resting upon his reign, which extended far beyond the construction of the Temple and palace to encompass vast economic expansion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, maritime trade was an exceedingly specialized, complex, and often perilous undertaking, requiring profound knowledge and experience. The Phoenicians, particularly the inhabitants of Tyre and Sidon, were universally recognized as the undisputed masters of seafaring and international commerce during this era. They possessed unparalleled expertise in shipbuilding, advanced navigation techniques, and an intricate understanding of sea routes across both the Mediterranean and Red Seas. In stark contrast, Israel was predominantly an agrarian society with very limited access to the sea and virtually no indigenous naval tradition or expertise. King Hiram of Tyre had already forged a robust and enduring alliance with Solomon, providing invaluable timber (cedar and cypress) and highly skilled craftsmen for the construction of the magnificent Temple and Solomon's royal palace, as detailed in [1 Kings 5:1-12](/1_kings/5 "1 Kings 5 - Solomon's Alliance with Hiram"). This verse vividly illustrates the continuation and strategic expansion of this mutually beneficial relationship into the crucial realm of large-scale maritime commerce. Ezion-geber, situated strategically at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, was Israel's sole direct access point to the Red Sea, thereby opening up vital trade routes to the resource-rich Arabian Peninsula and the distant lands of East Africa, regions renowned for their abundant gold, precious stones, and exotic goods.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Kings 9:27](/1_kings/9-27 "1 Kings 9:27 - Hiram's Shipmen") powerfully contributes to several overarching and significant themes woven throughout the book of [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings - The Reign of Kings"). Firstly, it profoundly underscores the theme of **International Collaboration and Strategic Alliance**, demonstrating with clarity how Solomon's reign was uniquely characterized by astute partnerships that brought unprecedented prosperity, stability, and influence to Israel. The enduring alliance with Hiram, initially forged by King David and meticulously solidified by Solomon, served as a foundational cornerstone of Israel's remarkable economic success and geopolitical standing. Secondly, the verse highlights **Solomon's Exceptional Wisdom in Governance and Administration**. His divinely bestowed wisdom was not confined to judicial pronouncements or theological insights but extended pragmatically to the intricate matters of statecraft. He wisely recognized Israel's inherent limitations in maritime expertise and, with profound foresight, sought out external, specialized knowledge to achieve ambitious national goals. This exemplifies a pragmatic, resourceful, and truly sagacious approach to leadership, demonstrating that true wisdom often involves humble recognition of one's own deficiencies and a willingness to leverage the strengths of others. Thirdly, the verse emphatically emphasizes the **Indispensable Importance of Specialized Knowledge and Expertise**. The crucial phrase "shipmen that had knowledge of the sea" is paramount, underscoring that success in complex, large-scale endeavors frequently necessitates skills and proficiencies beyond one's immediate capabilities, thereby mandating a humble reliance on others' mastery. This theme resonates deeply with the broader biblical principle of diverse gifts and mutual dependence, beautifully articulated in New Testament passages like [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body"), where different members contribute unique functions to the overall health and effectiveness of the body.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hiram (Hebrew, _Chîyrâm'_):** The king of Tyre, a formidable and wealthy Phoenician city-state celebrated for its unparalleled maritime prowess and extensive trade networks. Hiram's consistent and unwavering cooperation with Solomon, which encompassed providing not only raw materials and skilled craftsmen for the construction of the Temple and palace but also supplying expert mariners for naval expeditions, signifies a deep, enduring, and mutually beneficial political and economic alliance. His active involvement in this verse is not merely incidental but absolutely foundational to Solomon's ability to engage in large-scale, long-distance international trade, thereby highlighting the strategic and indispensable nature of this relationship for Israel's economic flourishing.
* **Shipmen (Hebrew, _ʾŏnîyâh'_):** While the KJV translates this as "shipmen," the Hebrew word `H591` primarily refers to "a ship" or, collectively, "a fleet." However, in context, especially when combined with `H582` (man/men) as implied in the KJV's "shipmen," it clearly denotes professional sailors or mariners. The emphasis here is on those specifically trained and profoundly experienced in the intricate art of seafaring. Their presence was not merely helpful but utterly essential for the safe and successful navigation of Solomon's newly constructed fleet across potentially treacherous and uncharted waters, given Israel's lack of naval tradition.
* **Knowledge (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This Hebrew root is rich in meaning, signifying "to know" in a profound and comprehensive sense. It implies not merely theoretical understanding but a deep, intimate, experiential, and practical skill gained through extensive experience. In the context of "knowledge of the sea," it highlights the highly specialized, invaluable, and practical expertise of the Phoenician sailors. These were masters of navigation, shipbuilding, understanding complex sea currents, predicting weather patterns, and managing the myriad challenges of long-distance voyages in the ancient world—skills that were absolutely indispensable for the success of Solomon's ambitious maritime ventures.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Hiram sent in the navy his servants,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes King Hiram's proactive and direct involvement in Solomon's burgeoning maritime enterprise. It goes beyond a mere passive agreement, indicating an active deployment of his own highly trained personnel. The phrase "in the navy" signifies that these servants were seamlessly integrated directly into Solomon's fleet, suggesting a close operational partnership rather than merely advisory roles, implying shared risk and shared reward in the venture.
* **"shipmen that had knowledge of the sea,"**: This is the pivotal descriptive phrase, precisely articulating the unique and indispensable qualification of Hiram's servants. It emphatically underscores their professional expertise, which was the very reason for their inclusion. Without this specialized, practical knowledge of navigation, currents, and maritime conditions, Solomon's newly built fleet, staffed by his own servants who were likely inexperienced in naval matters, would have been woefully ill-equipped for the formidable challenges of open-sea voyages to distant lands.
* **"with the servants of Solomon."**: This concluding clause clarifies the truly collaborative nature of the expedition. Hiram's expert mariners were not operating independently, nor were they merely passengers; rather, they were integrated directly with Solomon's own personnel. This implies a genuine joint venture, likely with the Phoenicians providing the critical navigation, technical skills, and leadership in seafaring, while Solomon's servants handled other essential aspects of the voyage, such as cargo management, trade negotiations, and perhaps learning from their experienced counterparts. It signifies a true partnership where both parties contributed their respective, complementary strengths for a common, prosperous goal.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices to convey its profound message. **Emphasis** is powerfully placed on the specialized and indispensable knowledge of Hiram's servants through the descriptive phrase "shipmen that had knowledge of the sea," highlighting the critical nature of their unique expertise for the success of the venture. This meticulous detail also serves as a form of **Characterization** for King Solomon, portraying him not merely as a wise judge but as an exceptionally pragmatic and discerning ruler who fully understands the immense value of leveraging external skills and specialized knowledge for the benefit and prosperity of his kingdom, rather than relying solely on internal, potentially insufficient, resources. The entire passage, including this verse, functions as a clear **Narrative Exposition**, meticulously explaining the practical and strategic means by which Solomon's vast and legendary wealth, particularly the immense quantity of gold from Ophir mentioned in the subsequent verse ([1 Kings 9:28](/1_kings/9-28 "1 Kings 9:28 - Gold from Ophir")), was successfully acquired. Furthermore, the long-standing, deep, and mutually beneficial relationship between Solomon and Hiram, so vividly exemplified here, serves as a powerful **Symbol** of effective international diplomacy, strategic economic cooperation, and the flourishing of a divinely blessed reign.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, while seemingly a straightforward historical detail concerning ancient trade, carries profound theological and thematic weight, offering enduring spiritual insights. It beautifully illustrates God's intricate provision for His people, demonstrating that His blessings are not always manifested through miraculous, supernatural intervention, but often through the wise and strategic utilization of human relationships, diverse gifts, and astute collaboration. Solomon's humble reliance on Hiram's "shipmen that had knowledge of the sea" powerfully demonstrates a wise recognition of his kingdom's inherent limitations and a pragmatic willingness to seek out and integrate external expertise. This reflects a broader, foundational biblical principle that God frequently works through human collaboration, valuing the unique skills, specialized knowledge, and distinct contributions of different individuals, communities, and even nations. It teaches that true wisdom, a gift ultimately granted by God, involves the spiritual discernment of when and how to partner with others who possess complementary strengths, thereby fostering a healthy interdependence rather than isolated self-sufficiency. This strategic alliance facilitated the flow of immense resources that contributed significantly to the unparalleled splendor and prosperity of Solomon's reign, which was ultimately intended to glorify God and showcase His abundant blessing upon Israel as a testimony to the surrounding nations.

* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel")
* [Ecclesiastes 10:10](/ecclesiastes/10-10 "Ecclesiastes 10:10 - Skill and Wisdom")
* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The historical account of Solomon and Hiram's collaborative maritime venture in [1 Kings 9:27](/1_kings/9-27 "1 Kings 9:27 - Hiram's Shipmen") offers timeless and profound wisdom for contemporary life and faith. It powerfully challenges us to critically examine areas where we might be attempting to operate in isolation, neglecting the vast wealth of knowledge, skill, and diverse gifts available within the wider community, particularly within the interconnected body of Christ. Just as Solomon, despite his unparalleled wisdom and immense resources, humbly recognized his limitations and the critical need for specialized maritime expertise he did not possess, we too must cultivate a profound humility to acknowledge our own deficiencies and actively seek out those with complementary gifts and specialized knowledge. This principle applies universally—to personal endeavors, professional projects, and most especially to the multifaceted mission of the church. Effective ministry and impactful kingdom work often necessitate a diverse array of talents—gifted teachers, meticulous administrators, creative artists, skilled technicians, compassionate caregivers—all working together in unity, each contributing their unique "knowledge of the sea" in their respective domains. Embracing genuine collaboration, valuing specialized skills, and fostering authentic, trusting partnerships can unlock far greater effectiveness and achieve outcomes that extend far beyond what any individual or single group could ever accomplish alone, ultimately bringing profound glory to God through shared effort, mutual dependence, and the synergistic deployment of His diverse gifts.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your personal life, professional career, or ministry are you currently trying to "go it alone" when collaboration with others who possess specialized knowledge might lead to significantly more effective outcomes?**
* **How can you intentionally cultivate a deeper and more appreciative understanding of the diverse gifts, skills, and unique perspectives of those around you, both within your immediate community and beyond?**
* **What concrete steps can you take to proactively identify and humbly seek out expert counsel, mentorship, or genuine partnership when facing new, complex, or particularly challenging endeavors?**

### FAQ

**Why was Hiram's help necessary for Solomon's navy?**

Answer: Hiram's help was absolutely necessary because ancient Israel, primarily an agrarian society with its focus on land-based agriculture and military, lacked a significant maritime tradition and, crucially, the specialized expertise required for long-distance, open-sea voyages. The Phoenicians, particularly those from the powerful city-state of Tyre, were renowned master mariners with centuries of unparalleled experience in shipbuilding, advanced navigation techniques, and intricate international trade routes. Solomon's newly constructed fleet at Ezion-geber would have been utterly useless for its intended purpose of fetching immense quantities of gold from distant lands like Ophir ([1 Kings 9:28](/1_kings/9-28 "1 Kings 9:28 - Gold from Ophir")) without the profound "knowledge of the sea" that Hiram's highly skilled "shipmen" possessed. This strategic partnership filled a critical and otherwise insurmountable gap in Israel's capabilities, enabling Solomon's ambitious and highly profitable economic ventures.

**What was the nature of the relationship between Solomon and Hiram?**

Answer: The relationship between King Solomon of Israel and King Hiram of Tyre was a strong, enduring, and profoundly mutually beneficial political and economic alliance. This alliance was rooted in an earlier friendship established between Hiram and King David ([2 Samuel 5:11](/2_samuel/5-11 "2 Samuel 5:11 - Hiram's Alliance with David")). Hiram provided essential resources and unparalleled expertise for Solomon's grand and extensive building projects, including vast quantities of timber (cedar and cypress) and highly skilled craftsmen for the construction of the magnificent Temple and his royal palace ([1 Kings 5:1-12](/1_kings/5 "1 Kings 5 - Solomon's Alliance with Hiram")). In return, Solomon provided Hiram with abundant food supplies, particularly wheat and oil ([1 Kings 5:11](/1_kings/5-11 "1 Kings 5:11 - Solomon's Provision for Hiram")), and later, twenty cities in Galilee ([1 Kings 9:10-14](/1_kings/9-10 "1 Kings 9:10-14 - Solomon's Gift to Hiram")). The sending of "shipmen that had knowledge of the sea" for Solomon's navy ([1 Kings 9:27](/1_kings/9-27 "1 Kings 9:27 - Hiram's Shipmen")) further solidified this alliance, demonstrating a deep level of trust, strategic cooperation, and shared economic interest that extended to joint ventures in maritime commerce.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [1 Kings 9:27](/1_kings/9-27 "1 Kings 9:27 - Hiram's Shipmen") describes a historical alliance forged for earthly gain and national prosperity, it subtly yet powerfully points to a greater, spiritual reality ultimately fulfilled in Christ. Solomon, despite his unparalleled, divinely bestowed wisdom, humbly recognized his limitations and wisely sought external, specialized expertise from Hiram's "shipmen that had knowledge of the sea" to achieve his kingdom's material prosperity. This pragmatic reliance foreshadows Christ, the ultimate King, who in His divine wisdom and omnipotence is entirely self-sufficient and lacks nothing. Yet, in His magnificent redemptive plan, He graciously chooses to build His eternal church through the diverse gifts, collaborative efforts, and humble service of His redeemed people ([Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11 "Ephesians 4:11-16 - Unity in the Body of Christ")). Just as Hiram's skilled men brought their specialized maritime abilities to navigate Solomon's navy, so the Holy Spirit sovereignly equips believers with unique spiritual gifts, enabling the body of Christ to function effectively, extend His kingdom, and fulfill its global mission of proclaiming the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth ([1 Corinthians 12:4-11](/1_corinthians/12-4 "1 Corinthians 12:4-11 - Diversity of Gifts")). The "gold from Ophir" that Solomon's ships brought back can be seen as a type of the immeasurable spiritual riches, the unsearchable wealth of Christ, and the eternal glory that Christ, through His perfect atoning work on the cross, has secured for His people ([Ephesians 1:7-8](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7-8 - Riches of God's Grace")). Furthermore, it points to the nations bringing their glory and honor into the New Jerusalem, a city built of pure gold ([Revelation 21:24-26](/revelation/21-24 "Revelation 21:24-26 - Nations Bring Glory to New Jerusalem")). Ultimately, Christ is the true "King of wisdom" who, though needing no external help, graciously employs and empowers His people, equipping them with His Spirit and diverse gifts, to extend His spiritual kingdom and gather the spiritual treasures of a redeemed humanity for His eternal glory.

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 10:11

And the navy also of Hiram, that brought gold from Ophir, brought in from Ophir great plenty of almug trees, and precious stones.

1 Kings 5:9

My servants shall bring [them] down from Lebanon unto the sea: and I will convey them by sea in floats unto the place that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to be discharged there, and thou shalt receive [them]: and thou shalt accomplish my desire, in giving food for my household.

1 Kings 5:6

Now therefore command thou that they hew me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and my servants shall be with thy servants: and unto thee will I give hire for thy servants according to all that thou shalt appoint: for thou knowest that [there is] not among us any that can skill to hew timber like unto the Sidonians.

2 Chronicles 20:36

And he joined himself with him to make ships to go to Tarshish: and they made the ships in Eziongeber.

2 Chronicles 20:37

Then Eliezer the son of Dodavah of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, Because thou hast joined thyself with Ahaziah, the LORD hath broken thy works. And the ships were broken, that they were not able to go to Tarshish.

1 Kings 22:49

Then said Ahaziah the son of Ahab unto Jehoshaphat, Let my servants go with thy servants in the ships. But Jehoshaphat would not.