1 Kings 5:1-9 ▼

1 Now when Hiram (noble) king of Tyre (a rock) heard that Solomon had been anointed king in his father’s place, he sent envoys to Solomon (peace); for Hiram had always been a friend of David (beloved).

2 And Solomon (peace) relayed this message to Hiram (noble):

3 “As you are well aware, due to the wars waged on all sides against my father David (beloved), he could not build a house for the Name of the LORD his God {YHWH Elohaw} until the LORD had put his enemies under his feet.

4 But now the LORD my God {YHWH Elohay} has given me rest on every side, and there is no adversary or crisis.

5 So behold, I plan to build a house for the Name of the LORD my God {YHWH Elohay}, according to what the LORD said to my father David (beloved): ‘I will put your son on your throne in your place, and he will build the house for My Name.’

6 Now therefore, order that cedars of Lebanon (whiteness) be cut down for me. My servants will be with your servants, and I will pay your servants whatever wages you set, for you know that there are none among us as skilled in logging as the Sidonians.”

7 When Hiram (noble) received Solomon’s (peace) message, he rejoiced greatly and said, “Blessed be the LORD {YHWH} this day! He has given David (beloved) a wise son over this great people!”

8 Then Hiram (noble) sent a reply to Solomon (peace), saying: “I have received your message; I will do all you desire regarding the cedar and cypress (pine) timber.

9 My servants will haul the logs from Lebanon (whiteness) to the Sea (the Mediterranean Sea), and I will float them as rafts by sea to the place you specify. There I will separate the logs, and you can take them away. And in exchange, you can meet my needs by providing my household with food.”