1 Kings 4:31

For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Chalcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all nations round about.

For he was wiser {H2449} than all men {H120}; than Ethan {H387} the Ezrahite {H250}, and Heman {H1968}, and Chalcol {H3633}, and Darda {H1862}, the sons {H1121} of Mahol {H4235}: and his fame {H8034} was in all nations {H1471} round about {H5439}.

For he was wiser than everyone - wiser than Eitan the Ezrachi and wiser than Heiman, Kalkol and Darda the sons of Machol; so that his fame spread to all the surrounding nations.

He was wiser than all men—wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite, and wiser than Heman, Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol. And his fame spread throughout the surrounding nations.

For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all the nations round about.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Kings 4:31

1 Kings 4:31 emphasizes the unparalleled wisdom and widespread fame of King Solomon, serving as a powerful testament to God's blessing upon him. This verse highlights how Solomon's intellect surpassed even the most renowned sages of his time, solidifying his reputation across the ancient world.

Context of Solomon's Wisdom

This verse follows a detailed description of Solomon's reign, his vast kingdom, and his extraordinary understanding. In 1 Kings 4:29-30, it's stated that God gave Solomon "wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore." This wisdom was a direct fulfillment of God's promise to Solomon, as recorded in 1 Kings 3:12, where God granted him a wise and discerning heart in response to his humble request for the ability to govern his people justly.

The individuals mentioned—Ethan the Ezrahite, Heman, Chalcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol—were recognized figures of wisdom and perhaps artistic or musical prowess in their era. Ethan and Heman, in particular, are associated with musical leadership and are even credited with authoring certain psalms (Psalm 88 for Heman, and Psalm 89 for Ethan). By comparing Solomon's wisdom to these celebrated figures and declaring him superior, the text underscores the truly exceptional nature of his divine gift.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Source of Wisdom: Solomon's wisdom was not merely intellectual brilliance but a direct endowment from God. This highlights that true, lasting wisdom originates from a divine source, not solely human effort.
  • Unparalleled Excellence: The comparison to other wise men of the age emphasizes the unique and unmatched quality of Solomon's wisdom. He was not just wise, but the wisest king on earth, surpassing even those held in high esteem.
  • Widespread Fame and Influence: Solomon's "fame was in all nations round about." This illustrates how God's blessings, particularly wisdom, can lead to widespread recognition and influence. His reputation for sagacity drew people from distant lands, most notably the Queen of Sheba, who came to test his wisdom.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "wiser" (חָכַם, chakam) denotes not just intellectual knowledge but also practical skill, discernment, and moral insight. It encompasses the ability to make sound judgments and apply knowledge effectively. The phrasing "wiser than all men" is an absolute superlative, emphasizing the complete preeminence of Solomon's wisdom in his time.

Practical Application

Solomon's story reminds us that genuine wisdom is a precious gift. While we may not be granted Solomon's unique level of understanding, the Bible consistently encourages believers to ask God for wisdom (James 1:5). This wisdom is essential for navigating life's complexities, making righteous decisions, and influencing our communities positively. Just as Solomon's fame spread, a life lived with godly wisdom can have a far-reaching and beneficial impact, reflecting God's glory to those around us.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 2:6 (6 votes)

    And the sons of Zerah; Zimri, and Ethan, and Heman, and Calcol, and Dara: five of them in all.

  • 1 Chronicles 15:19 (6 votes)

    So the singers, Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, [were appointed] to sound with cymbals of brass;

  • 1 Kings 3:12 (5 votes)

    Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.

  • Psalms 89:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ Maschil of Ethan the Ezrahite. I will sing of the mercies of the LORD for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.

  • Psalms 89:52 (3 votes)

    Blessed [be] the LORD for evermore. Amen, and Amen.

  • Matthew 12:42 (3 votes)

    The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon [is] here.

  • 1 Chronicles 6:33 (3 votes)

    And these [are] they that waited with their children. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman a singer, the son of Joel, the son of Shemuel,