1 Kings 4:28

Barley also and straw for the horses and dromedaries brought they unto the place where [the officers] were, every man according to his charge.

Barley {H8184} also and straw {H8401} for the horses {H5483} and dromedaries {H7409} brought {H935} they unto the place {H4725} where the officers were, every man {H376} according to his charge {H4941}.

They also made sure there was barley and straw where it was needed for the horses and draft animals; each filled his quota.

Each one also brought to the required place their quotas of barley and straw for the chariot horses and other horses.

Barley also and straw for the horses and swift steeds brought they unto the place where the officers were, every man according to his charge.

Commentary

1 Kings 4:28 offers a specific, yet revealing, glimpse into the vast and highly organized logistical system that supported King Solomon's prosperous reign. It details the meticulous provision of feed for the royal animals, reflecting the kingdom's immense resources and administrative efficiency.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is situated within a broader description of King Solomon's unparalleled wisdom, peace, and prosperity, as outlined in 1 Kings Chapter 4. Following the enumeration of his twelve provincial officers (see 1 Kings 4:7-19), verses 27 and 28 highlight their crucial role in supplying the needs of the royal court. Each officer was responsible for providing provisions for one month of the year, ensuring a continuous flow of food for the king's household and his extensive animal forces. The mention of "horses and dromedaries" emphasizes the significant scale of Solomon's military and transport capabilities, which were a hallmark of his wealth and power, as further described in 1 Kings 10:26. This detail underscores the sophisticated ancient logistics required to maintain such an empire.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Order and Efficiency: The verse powerfully illustrates the highly organized and systematic nature of Solomon's administration. The phrase "every man according to his charge" highlights the precision and accountability within his government, ensuring that all royal needs were met without interruption.
  • Abundance and Prosperity: The sheer quantity of feed required for a large number of horses and dromedaries, alongside the provisions for the royal household, speaks volumes about the extraordinary wealth and abundance enjoyed during Solomon's reign. This era was a peak of material blessing for Israel.
  • Responsibility and Stewardship: The diligence of the officers in fulfilling their specific duties underscores the importance of individual responsibility. Their faithfulness in these seemingly mundane tasks was vital for the smooth functioning and overall stability of the kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The term "dromedaries" (Hebrew: rekesh or kirkarot in related contexts, often translated as swift steeds or camels) refers to a specific type of fast, single-humped camel primarily used for riding and rapid transport, as opposed to heavier pack camels. Their inclusion alongside horses indicates Solomon's use of diverse and suitable animals for various purposes across his kingdom, reflecting advanced planning in his royal logistics. "Barley and straw" were staple, economical provisions for sustaining large animal forces in the ancient Near East.

Practical Application

While a historical detail, 1 Kings 4:28 offers timeless insights:

  • The Importance of Good Administration: Effective leadership, whether in a kingdom, a business, or a household, relies on meticulous planning, clear delegation, and responsible oversight to ensure resources are managed efficiently.
  • Faithfulness in Small Duties: The officers' diligent fulfillment of their specific "charge," even in providing animal feed, demonstrates how attention to detail and faithfulness in seemingly minor responsibilities contribute significantly to the success and stability of a larger enterprise. This principle is echoed in Luke 16:10.
  • God's Provision Through Order: The abundance and smooth operation described in this chapter can be seen as a manifestation of God's blessings upon Solomon and Israel, often facilitated by wise and orderly governance. It reminds us that blessings frequently flow through diligent effort and responsible stewardship.

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Cross-References

  • Esther 8:10 (4 votes)

    And he wrote in the king Ahasuerus' name, and sealed [it] with the king's ring, and sent letters by posts on horseback, [and] riders on mules, camels, [and] young dromedaries:

  • Micah 1:13 (4 votes)

    O thou inhabitant of Lachish, bind the chariot to the swift beast: she [is] the beginning of the sin to the daughter of Zion: for the transgressions of Israel were found in thee.

  • Esther 8:14 (4 votes)

    [So] the posts that rode upon mules [and] camels went out, being hastened and pressed on by the king's commandment. And the decree was given at Shushan the palace.