1 Kings 11:19
There Hadad found such great favor in the sight of Pharaoh that he gave to him in marriage the sister of Queen Tahpenes, his own wife.
Pharaoh
The term "Pharaoh" refers to the title used by the monarchs of ancient Egypt. In Hebrew, it is "פַּרְעֹה" (Par'oh). Pharaohs were considered divine figures, ruling with absolute power. This historical context highlights the significance of Hadad's favor in the eyes of such a powerful ruler, indicating a strong political alliance and the potential influence Hadad wielded in Egypt.

was so pleased
The phrase "was so pleased" suggests a deep sense of satisfaction or delight. In the Hebrew context, this implies a favorable disposition that Pharaoh had towards Hadad, which was not merely political but also personal. This favor could have been due to Hadad's royal lineage or his potential as an ally against common enemies, such as Israel.

with Hadad
Hadad was an Edomite prince who fled to Egypt after David's conquest of Edom. His presence in Egypt and the favor he found there is significant, as it sets the stage for future conflicts with Israel. The name "Hadad" is associated with a storm god in ancient Near Eastern cultures, which may imply strength and power, characteristics that Pharaoh might have admired.

that he gave him
The act of giving in marriage was a common diplomatic practice in ancient times, used to seal alliances and ensure loyalty. This gesture by Pharaoh indicates a formal and binding relationship, suggesting that Hadad was not merely a guest but a valued ally.

the sister of his own wife
This phrase underscores the importance of the marriage alliance. By giving Hadad the sister of his wife, Pharaoh was integrating Hadad into the royal family, a sign of high honor and trust. This move would have elevated Hadad's status and influence within Egypt.

Queen Tahpenes
Queen Tahpenes is mentioned here as the wife of Pharaoh, and her sister's marriage to Hadad further solidifies the alliance. The name "Tahpenes" is Egyptian, and her mention provides a glimpse into the royal household's dynamics. This connection would have given Hadad a significant position in Egyptian society, potentially impacting his future actions against Israel.

in marriage
Marriage in the ancient Near East was not only a personal union but also a political tool. This marriage would have been seen as a strategic alliance, strengthening ties between Egypt and Hadad. It reflects the complex interplay of personal relationships and political strategy in the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt during the time of Solomon. His actions in this verse show political maneuvering and alliances.

2. Hadad
An Edomite prince who fled to Egypt after David's conquest of Edom. He found favor with Pharaoh, which indicates his significance and the political dynamics at play.

3. Queen Tahpenes
The wife of Pharaoh, whose sister was given to Hadad in marriage. This marriage alliance signifies the importance of Hadad in Pharaoh's eyes.

4. Egypt
A powerful nation and a place of refuge for Hadad. It represents a recurring theme of political asylum and strategic alliances in the Bible.

5. Marriage Alliance
The marriage between Hadad and the sister of Queen Tahpenes symbolizes a political alliance, a common practice in ancient times to secure peace and mutual benefit.
Teaching Points
The Influence of Political Alliances
Political alliances, such as marriages, can have significant implications for nations and individuals. Believers should be cautious about forming alliances that may compromise their values.

God's Sovereignty in Political Affairs
Despite human political maneuvers, God's sovereignty prevails. Trust in God's ultimate plan, even when political situations seem complex or unfavorable.

The Role of Refuge and Asylum
Just as Hadad found refuge in Egypt, God provides refuge for His people. Seek God's protection and guidance in times of distress.

The Impact of Favor and Influence
Hadad's favor with Pharaoh shows the power of influence. Use your influence wisely to honor God and further His kingdom.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the political alliance between Hadad and Pharaoh reflect the broader theme of political alliances in the Bible, and what can we learn from it about our own relationships?

2. In what ways does God's sovereignty manifest in the political and personal events of 1 Kings 11:19, and how can this understanding impact our trust in God today?

3. How does the concept of refuge in Egypt for Hadad compare to other biblical figures who sought refuge, and what does this teach us about seeking refuge in God?

4. What are the potential dangers of forming alliances that are not aligned with God's will, and how can we discern God's guidance in our relationships and decisions?

5. How can we use our influence, like Hadad did with Pharaoh, to positively impact those around us and advance God's purposes in our lives?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 12
The account of Abram and Sarai in Egypt, highlighting Egypt as a place of refuge and the complexities of interactions with Pharaohs.

Exodus 2
Moses' flight to Midian and his subsequent marriage, drawing parallels to Hadad's flight and marriage in a foreign land.

1 Kings 3
Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter, illustrating the use of marriage for political alliances.

2 Samuel 8
David's conquest of Edom, providing background to Hadad's flight and the enmity between Edom and Israel.
Divine ImpulsesJ. Parker, D. D.1 Kings 11:14-22
Premonitions of WrathJ.A. Macdonald 1 Kings 11:14-25
The Divine ChastisementsJ. Urquhart 1 Kings 11:14-25
People
Ahijah, Ammonites, Aram, Ashtoreth, Chemosh, David, Edomites, Eliada, Eliadah, Genubath, Hadad, Hadadezer, Hittites, Israelites, Jeroboam, Joab, Joseph, Milcom, Moabites, Molech, Nebat, Pharaoh, Rehoboam, Rezon, Shishak, Sidonians, Solomon, Tahpenes, Zeruah, Zidon, Zidonians
Places
Damascus, Edom, Egypt, Jerusalem, Midian, Millo, Moab, Paran, Syria, Zeredah, Zobah
Topics
Exceedingly, Favor, Favour, Findeth, Giveth, Grace, Hadad, Marriage, Mistress, Pharaoh, Pleased, Pleasing, Queen, Sight, Sister, Tahpenes, Tah'penes, Wife
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Kings 11:14-26

     7236   Israel, united kingdom

Library
The New Garment Bent
'And Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, an Ephrathite of Zereda, Solomon's servant, whose mother's name was Zeruah, a widow woman, even he lifted up his hand against the king. 27. And this was the cause that he lifted up his hand against the king: Solomon built Millo, and repaired the breaches of the city of David his father. 28. And the man Jeroboam was a mighty man of valour: and Solomon seeing the young man that he was industrious, he made him ruler over all the charge of the house of Joseph. 29. And
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Fall of Solomon
'For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father. 5. For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 6. And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord, and went not fully after the Lord, as did David his father. 7. Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

What Happened to Solomon
In his early manhood Solomon was noted for his deep piety and his fervent love of righteousness. When he became king, he found a great work ready for his hand, and he set about the task with a glad heart. To build a temple to Jehovah was his delight, and he threw into it his whole strength. His prayer at the dedication of the temple shows a deeply reverent and submissive spirit. As the years went by he increased in riches and honor. His name became a synonym for wisdom. Many nations paid him tribute.
Charles Wesley Naylor—Heart Talks

"When Solomon was Old. "
"It came to pass when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other Gods." 1 KINGS xi. 4. Who could have predicted that this would come to pass? And yet it is often so, for it is still true that NO AMOUNT OF KNOWLEDGE WILL SAVE FROM BACKSLIDING THOSE WHO REFUSE TO LISTEN TO GOD. We learn from verse 10 that God had taken pains to save Solomon from idolatry, (see 1 Kings vi. 12, and xi. 6). But what good is it for even God to try to save a man who will have his own way? And
Thomas Champness—Broken Bread

Scriptural Types.
1. The material world is full of analogies adapted to the illustration of spiritual things. No teacher ever drew from this inexhaustible storehouse such a rich variety of examples as our Saviour. His disciples are the salt of the earth, the light of the world, and a city set on a hill. From the ravens which God feeds and the lilies which God clothes, he teaches the unreasonableness of worldly anxiety. The kingdom of heaven is like seed sown in different soils, like a field of wheat and tares
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible

The Situation of the Jews During this Period.
As we have seen in earlier chapters, the declarations of Holy Writ make it very clear that Israel will yet be restored to God's favor and be rehabilitated in Palestine. But before that glad time arrives, the Jews have to pass through a season of sore trouble and affliction, during which God severely chastises them for their sins and punishes them for the rejection and crucifixion of their Messiah. Fearful indeed have been the past experiences of "the nation of the weary feet" but a darker path than
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

How to Split a Kingdom
And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king. 2. And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was yet in Egypt, heard of it (for he was fled from the presence of king Solomon, and Jeroboam dwelt in Egypt); 3. That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying, 4. Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore make thou the grievous service of thy father, and his heavy yoke which he
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Political Religion
'Then Jeroboam built Shechera in mount Ephraim, and dwelt therein; and went out from thence, and built Penuel. 26. And Jeroboam said in his heart, Now shall the kingdom return to the house of David: 27. If this people go up to do sacrifice in the house of the Lord at Jerusalem, then shall the heart of this people turn again unto their lord, even unto Rehoboam king of Judah, and they shall kill me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah. 28. Whereupon the king took counsel, and made two calves of
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

"This Thing is from Me"
"Thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren the children of Israel: return every man to his house; for this thing is from me."--1 Kings 12:24. IT IS VERY DELIGHTFUL to read a history in which God is made prominent. How sadly deficient we are of such histories of our own English nation! Yet surely there is no story that is more full of God than the record of the doings of our British race. Cowper, in one of his poems, shows the parallel between us and the house of Israel,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 42: 1896

Covenant Duties.
It is here proposed to show, that every incumbent duty ought, in suitable circumstances, to be engaged to in the exercise of Covenanting. The law and covenant of God are co-extensive; and what is enjoined in the one is confirmed in the other. The proposals of that Covenant include its promises and its duties. The former are made and fulfilled by its glorious Originator; the latter are enjoined and obligatory on man. The duties of that Covenant are God's law; and the demands of the law are all made
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

Formation and History of the Hebrew Canon.
1. The Greek word canon (originally a straight rod or pole, measuring-rod, then rule) denotes that collection of books which the churches receive as given by inspiration of God, and therefore as constituting for them a divine rule of faith and practice. To the books included in it the term canonical is applied. The Canon of the Old Testament, considered in reference to its constituent parts, was formed gradually; formed under divine superintendence by a process of growth extending through
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible

Temporal Advantages.
"We brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content."--1 Tim. vi. 7, 8. Every age has its own special sins and temptations. Impatience with their lot, murmuring, grudging, unthankfulness, discontent, are sins common to men at all times, but I suppose one of those sins which belongs to our age more than to another, is desire of a greater portion of worldly goods than God has given us,--ambition and covetousness
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII

Redemption for Man Lost to be Sought in Christ.
1. The knowledge of God the Creator of no avail without faith in Christ the Redeemer. First reason. Second reason strengthened by the testimony of an Apostle. Conclusion. This doctrine entertained by the children of God in all ages from the beginning of the world. Error of throwing open heaven to the heathen, who know nothing of Christ. The pretexts for this refuted by passages of Scripture. 2. God never was propitious to the ancient Israelites without Christ the Mediator. First reason founded on
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

The Instrumentality of the Wicked Employed by God, While He Continues Free from Every Taint.
1. The carnal mind the source of the objections which are raised against the Providence of God. A primary objection, making a distinction between the permission and the will of God, refuted. Angels and men, good and bad, do nought but what has been decreed by God. This proved by examples. 2. All hidden movements directed to their end by the unseen but righteous instigation of God. Examples, with answers to objections. 3. These objections originate in a spirit of pride and blasphemy. Objection, that
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.),
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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