1 Kings 5:1-9 ▼

1 King Hiram of Tyre sent messengers to Solomon when he heard that he had been anointed king in his father's place. (Hiram had always been an ally of David.)

2 Solomon then sent this message to Hiram:

3 |You know that my father David was unable to build a temple to honor the LORD his God, for he was busy fighting battles on all fronts while the LORD subdued his enemies.

4 But now the LORD my God has made me secure on all fronts; there is no adversary or dangerous threat.

5 So I have decided to build a temple to honor the LORD my God, as the LORD instructed my father David, 'Your son, whom I will put on your throne in your place, is the one who will build a temple to honor me.'

6 So now order some cedars of Lebanon to be cut for me. My servants will work with your servants. I will pay your servants whatever you say is appropriate, for you know that we have no one among us who knows how to cut down trees like the Sidonians.|

7 When Hiram heard Solomon's message, he was very happy. He said, |The LORD is worthy of praise today because he has given David a wise son to rule over this great nation.|

8 Hiram then sent this message to Solomon: |I received the message you sent to me. I will give you all the cedars and evergreens you need.

9 My servants will bring the timber down from Lebanon to the sea. I will send it by sea in raft-like bundles to the place you designate. There I will separate the logs and you can carry them away. In exchange you will supply the food I need for my royal court.|