1 Kings 11:41
As for the rest of the acts of Solomon--all that he did, as well as his wisdom--are they not written in the Book of the Acts of Solomon?
As for the rest of the acts of Solomon
This phrase introduces a summary statement about King Solomon's reign. The Hebrew word for "acts" is "דִּבְרֵי" (divrei), which can also mean "words" or "matters." This suggests that the chronicler is referring to a comprehensive account of Solomon's deeds, both public and private. Solomon's reign was marked by significant achievements, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, extensive trade, and diplomatic relations. Historically, Solomon's era is often seen as a golden age for Israel, characterized by peace and prosperity.

all that he did
The phrase emphasizes the totality of Solomon's accomplishments. The Hebrew word "כָּל" (kol) means "all" or "every," indicating that nothing of importance was omitted from the record. Solomon's actions were numerous and varied, from his administrative reforms to his building projects. His reign was a time of great architectural and cultural development, which left a lasting impact on the nation of Israel.

as well as his wisdom
Solomon's wisdom is legendary, and the Hebrew word "חָכְמָתוֹ" (chokhmato) underscores this attribute. Solomon's wisdom was a divine gift, famously demonstrated in the judgment of the two women claiming the same baby (1 Kings 3:16-28). His wisdom extended beyond judicial matters to include knowledge of nature, proverbs, and songs. Solomon's wisdom was renowned throughout the ancient world, attracting visitors like the Queen of Sheba, who came to test him with hard questions (1 Kings 10:1-13).

are they not written
This rhetorical question implies that the deeds and wisdom of Solomon were well-documented. The Hebrew verb "כָּתוּבִים" (k'tuvim) means "written," suggesting that there was a formal record of Solomon's reign. This documentation would have served as an official account for future generations, preserving the memory of Solomon's contributions to Israel's history.

in the Book of the Acts of Solomon?
The "Book of the Acts of Solomon" is mentioned here as a source for further information about Solomon's reign. While this book is not part of the biblical canon, it is believed to have been a historical record, possibly similar to the annals kept by other ancient Near Eastern kingdoms. The existence of such a book indicates that Solomon's reign was of significant interest and importance, warranting detailed documentation. This reference also highlights the practice of recording royal histories, which was common in the ancient world.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the First Temple in Jerusalem, Solomon's reign is a significant period in Israel's history.

2. The Book of the Acts of Solomon
This is a non-canonical book referenced in the Bible, which presumably contained detailed accounts of Solomon's reign, his accomplishments, and his wisdom.

3. Israel
The united kingdom under Solomon's rule, which experienced a time of peace and prosperity. However, Solomon's later years were marked by idolatry and political alliances that led to the kingdom's division after his death.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Documenting History
The reference to the Book of the Acts of Solomon underscores the value of recording history. It reminds us to document God's work in our lives and the lessons learned for future generations.

Wisdom and Accountability
Solomon's wisdom was a gift from God, yet his later actions show that wisdom alone is not enough without obedience to God's commands. We must seek wisdom and apply it in alignment with God's will.

The Consequences of Compromise
Solomon's alliances and idolatry led to the division of the kingdom. This teaches us the dangers of compromising our faith and values for worldly gains or relationships.

The Legacy We Leave
Solomon's life prompts us to consider the legacy we are building. Are we leaving a legacy of faithfulness and obedience to God, or one of compromise and disobedience?
Bible Study Questions
1. What can we learn from the fact that Solomon's acts and wisdom were documented in a separate book? How does this apply to how we record and share our own spiritual journeys?

2. How does Solomon's life illustrate the balance between wisdom and obedience to God? Can you identify areas in your life where you need to align your actions with God's wisdom?

3. In what ways do the consequences of Solomon's compromises serve as a warning for us today? How can we guard against similar pitfalls in our own lives?

4. Reflect on the legacy you are building. What steps can you take to ensure it aligns with God's purposes and brings glory to Him?

5. How do other scriptures about Solomon, such as those in Ecclesiastes, enhance our understanding of his life and the lessons we can learn from it? How can these insights be applied to our daily walk with God?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Kings 3:12-13
This passage highlights God's promise to Solomon, granting him unparalleled wisdom and wealth, which is referenced in 1 Kings 11:41 as part of his acts and wisdom.

Ecclesiastes 1:12-18
Solomon's reflections on wisdom and the futility of human endeavors provide insight into his mindset and the limitations of earthly wisdom, connecting to the broader account of his life.

2 Chronicles 9:29
This verse also references the acts of Solomon, indicating that multiple sources documented his reign, emphasizing the importance of his contributions and the lessons from his life.
The Call to JeroboamJ. Urquhart 1 Kings 11:26-43
Solomon's EndJ.A. Macdonald 1 Kings 11:40-43
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
Acts, Annals, Aren't, Book, Displayed, Matters, Recorded, Reign, Rest, Solomon, Solomon's, Whatever, Wisdom, Written
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Kings 11:41

     5232   book
     5638   writing
     8644   commemoration

1 Kings 11:41-43

     7240   Jerusalem, history

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

Links
1 Kings 11:41 NIV
1 Kings 11:41 NLT
1 Kings 11:41 ESV
1 Kings 11:41 NASB
1 Kings 11:41 KJV

1 Kings 11:41 Commentaries

Bible Hub
1 Kings 11:40
Top of Page
Top of Page