◄ 1 Kings 5 ►
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Preparations for the Temple (2 Chronicles 2:1–10) 1Now when Hiram king of Tyre heard that Solomon had been anointed king in his father’s place, he sent envoys to Solomon; for Hiram had always been a friend of David. 2And Solomon relayed this message to Hiram: 3“As you are well aware, due to the wars waged on all sides against my father David, he could not build a house for the Name of the LORD his God until the LORD had put his enemies under his feet. 4But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side, and there is no adversary or crisis. 5So behold, I plan to build a house for the Name of the LORD my God, according to what the LORD said to my father David: ‘I will put your son on your throne in your place, and he will build the house for My Name.’ 6Now therefore, order that cedars of Lebanon 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.” Hiram’s Reply to Solomon (2 Chronicles 2:11–18) 7When Hiram received Solomon’s message, he rejoiced greatly and said, “Blessed be the LORD this day! He has given David a wise son over this great people!” 8Then Hiram sent a reply to Solomon, saying: “I have received your message; I will do all you desire regarding the cedar and cypressa timber. 9My servants will haul the logs from Lebanon to the Sea,b 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.” 10So Hiram provided Solomon with all the cedar and cypress timber he wanted, 11and year after year Solomon would provide Hiram with 20,000 cors of wheatc as food for his household, as well as 20,000 baths of pure olive oil.d 12And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, as He had promised him. There was peace between Hiram and Solomon, and the two of them made a treaty.e Solomon’s Labor Force 13Then King Solomon conscripted a labor force of 30,000 men from all Israel. 14He sent them to Lebanon in monthly shifts of 10,000 men, so that they would spend one month in Lebanon and two months at home. And Adoniram was in charge of the forced labor. 15Solomon had 70,000 porters and 80,000 stonecutters in the mountains, 16not including his 3,300f foremen who supervised the workers. 17And the king commanded them to quarry large, costly stones to lay the foundation of the temple with dressed stones. 18So Solomon’s and Hiram’s builders, along with the Gebalites, quarried the stone and prepared the timber and stone for the construction of the temple. Footnotes: 8 a Or pine or juniper or fir; also in verse 10 9 b That is, the Mediterranean Sea, also called the Great Sea 11 c 20,000 cors is approximately 124,800 bushels or 4.4 million liters (probably about 3,800 tons or 3,400 metric tons of wheat). 11 d LXX (see also 2 Chronicles 2:10); 20,000 baths is approximately 116,000 gallons or 440,000 liters of olive oil; Hebrew twenty cors of pure oil or twenty cors of pressed oil 12 e Forms of the Hebrew berit are translated in most passages as covenant. 16 f Hebrew; some LXX manuscripts 3,600; see 2 Chronicles 2:18. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Kings 5 Summary Preparations for the Temple Verses 1–6 – Solomon Seeks Hiram’s Help Solomon writes to Hiram, king of Tyre, reminding him that David could not build the LORD’s house because of constant war. Now, with peace on every side, Solomon announces his plan to build and asks for Lebanon’s prized cedars. He promises fair wages and affirms, “You know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians.” Verses 7–12 – Hiram’s Reply and Covenant Hiram rejoices, blesses the LORD, and agrees to supply cedar and cypress. The logs will be floated down the coast, separated where Solomon designates, and exchanged for wheat and olive oil. “So the LORD gave Solomon wisdom… and the two of them made a treaty,” sealing a peaceful international partnership. Verses 13–18 – Labor Force and Materials Prepared Solomon drafts thirty thousand Israelites for monthly shifts in Lebanon, plus seventy thousand porters, eighty thousand stonecutters, and 3,300 foremen. Large, costly stones are quarried, and Solomon’s builders, Hiram’s builders, and the men of Gebal shape timber and stone together for the future temple. 1 Kings 5 is a testament to King Solomon's wisdom, diplomacy, and leadership. The chapter tells the tale of Solomon's preparations for building the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem, a dream his father, King David, had wished to accomplish. It details the remarkable alliance between Solomon and Hiram, the King of Tyre, and the resources Solomon gathered to bring this grand project to life. Historical Background • David’s reign ended with unfinished plans for a temple (2 Samuel 7:1–13; 1 Chronicles 22:7–10).  • Tyre was a wealthy Phoenician port famous for maritime trade, purple dye, and especially Lebanon cedar—straight, tall, aromatic, and resistant to rot. Hiram (c. 980–947 BC) had enjoyed a warm friendship with David (1 Kings 5:1). • Solomon’s peace (“rest on every side,” v 4) fulfills Deuteronomy 12:10, where God promised rest before a central place of worship could be built. The Significance of Solomon’s Peace War kept David moving; peace lets Solomon build. The pattern echoes Genesis 2:2–3: work followed by rest, then worship. Hebrews 4:9–11 later connects God-given rest with faithful obedience. The Tyre–Israel Alliance • Mutual benefit: Israel lacked cedar forests; Tyre needed grain and oil.  • Treaty based on friendship, not conquest—rare in the ancient Near East.  • The alliance prefigures the gathering of Gentile resources for God’s house (Isaiah 60:10–13). • Hiram’s praise, “Blessed be the LORD” (v 7), shows Israel’s God being honored beyond Israel’s borders, foreshadowing 1 Kings 8:41–43. Cedars of Lebanon and Temple Architecture • Cedar beams spanned greater widths than local woods and held ornate carving (1 Kings 6:18).  • Their fragrance deterred insects—important for longevity.  • Cypress (sometimes “juniper” or “pine”) added durability for floors and framing. • Archaeologists have found Phoenician cedar planks in Egyptian tombs (Old Kingdom, c. 2600 BC), confirming their ancient export trade. Workforce Organization 1. Israelites: 30,000 in three-month rotations (1 Kings 5:13–14). They shared the privilege—and burden—of temple building.  2. Non-Israelite labor: 70,000 porters, 80,000 stonecutters, plus Gebalites (from Byblos) skilled in stone dressing (v 18).  3. Oversight: 3,300 foremen (v 16). Adoniram (also called Hadoram) supervised, the same official who later collected taxes (1 Kings 12:18). • The vast numbers underline the scale of the project: a national effort demanding wisdom and order (compare 1 Corinthians 14:40—“Let all things be done decently and in order”). Large, Costly Stones • “Costly” points to both size and quality. Ashlar blocks up to 20 feet long have been unearthed under the Temple Mount’s southwest corner—later Herodian, yet using the same quarrying methods.  • Stones were finished at the quarry (1 Kings 6:7) to maintain reverent silence on the temple site. Scripture Connections • 2 Chronicles 2 parallels 1 Kings 5, adding details about 153,600 foreign laborers.  • Psalm 127:1—“Unless the LORD builds the house…”—traditionally linked to Solomon and highlights divine partnership.  • Ephesians 2:19–22 speaks of believers “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets,” drawing from temple imagery. Practical Life Insights • Peace should prompt worship, not complacency. Solomon turns God-given rest into active obedience.  • Wise partnerships can advance godly goals, yet alliances must keep God first; later, foreign ties contribute to Solomon’s downfall (1 Kings 11:1–8).  • Skilled labor matters in the LORD’s work; every porter and stonecutter had purpose, echoing 1 Corinthians 12:4–26 on varied gifts in one body. Archaeological Notes • The ancient port of Tyre shows Phoenician breakwaters where logs could be lashed into rafts, matching v 9’s procedure.  • At ancient Gebal (Byblos), limestone quarries and mason’s marks mirror the stone‐dressing expertise mentioned in v 18.  • Seal impressions reading “Belonging to Hmytn, servant of Hiram” show administrative record-keeping in tenth-century Tyre. Looking Ahead Chapter 5 lays the practical groundwork; chapter 6 will unveil the temple’s beauty. The careful preparation reminds us that God values both the planning and the finished work, and that every stage, from quarry to cornerstone, is holy when dedicated to His Name. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. This verse underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance, as Solomon did. 1 Corinthians 3:9 For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building. This New Testament passage highlights the concept of believers working together as part of God's spiritual building. Ephesians 4:3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. This verse emphasizes the importance of unity, as demonstrated in the collaboration between Solomon and Hiram. Teaching Points Solomon's Wisdom and Diplomacy Solomon's request to Hiram, King of Tyre, demonstrates his wisdom and diplomatic skills. He acknowledges the friendship between Hiram and his father David, and he seeks to continue this alliance for the temple's construction (1 Kings 5:1-6). The Significance of the Temple The temple was to be a dwelling place for God's Name, a central place of worship for Israel. Solomon's commitment to building the temple reflects his dedication to honoring God (1 Kings 5:5). Collaboration and Unity The chapter highlights the collaboration between Israel and Tyre. Hiram provides cedar and cypress logs, while Solomon supplies food for Hiram's household, showcasing a mutually beneficial partnership (1 Kings 5:8-11). Organized Labor and Leadership Solomon organizes a large workforce, including 30,000 men sent to Lebanon in shifts, 70,000 burden-bearers, and 80,000 stonecutters, demonstrating effective leadership and organization (1 Kings 5:13-16). God's Provision and Blessing The successful negotiation and cooperation between Solomon and Hiram illustrate God's provision and blessing upon the endeavor to build the temple (1 Kings 5:12). Practical Applications Seek Wisdom in Leadership Like Solomon, we should seek God's wisdom in our leadership roles, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities. Value Unity and Cooperation Embrace collaboration with others, recognizing that unity can lead to the successful accomplishment of God's purposes. Commit to God's Work Dedicate your efforts and resources to projects that honor God, understanding that such commitments are acts of worship. Organize and Plan Effectively Approach tasks with careful planning and organization, trusting that God will bless our efforts when we work diligently. People 1. Solomon Solomon is the king of Israel, known for his wisdom and wealth. In 1 Kings 5, he is preparing to build a temple for the LORD, fulfilling the promise made to his father, David. Solomon's name in Hebrew is שְׁלֹמֹה (Shelomoh), which is derived from the root word שָׁלוֹם (shalom), meaning "peace." 2. Hiram Hiram is the king of Tyre, a neighboring kingdom. He had been a friend of David, Solomon's father, and continues this alliance by providing materials and skilled labor for the construction of the temple. Hiram's name in Hebrew is חִירָם (Chiram), which can mean "exalted brother." 3. David Although not directly involved in the events of 1 Kings 5, David is mentioned as Solomon's father and the one who desired to build a temple for the LORD. David's name in Hebrew is דָּוִד (David), meaning "beloved." 4. Adoniram Adoniram is mentioned as being in charge of the forced labor. His name in Hebrew is אֲדֹנִירָם (Adoniram), which means "my lord is exalted." Places 1. Tyre Tyre is a significant city located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its skilled craftsmen and trade. In 1 Kings 5, King Hiram of Tyre plays a crucial role in supplying materials and labor for the construction of Solomon's temple. The Hebrew root for Tyre is "צֹר" (Tzor), which means "rock," reflecting its strong and fortified nature. 2. Lebanon Lebanon is renowned for its cedar trees, which were highly valued in ancient construction. In this chapter, Solomon requests cedar and cypress timber from Lebanon for building the temple. The Hebrew name "לְבָנוֹן" (Levanon) is associated with the white snow-capped mountains of the region. 3. Israel Israel is the kingdom over which Solomon reigns. It is the central location for the events described in 1 Kings 5, as Solomon organizes the resources and labor needed for the temple's construction. The Hebrew root "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el) means "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." Events 1. Hiram's Recognition of Solomon's Kingship Hiram, the king of Tyre, sends his servants to Solomon upon hearing that he has been anointed king in place of his father, David. This act signifies Hiram's recognition and respect for Solomon's new position. The Hebrew root for "anointed" is מָשַׁח (mashach), indicating a consecration for a divine purpose. 2. Solomon's Request for Cedar Wood Solomon sends a message to Hiram, expressing his intention to build a temple for the name of the LORD, as promised to David. Solomon requests Hiram to supply cedar wood from Lebanon, acknowledging the Sidonians' expertise in timber. The Hebrew word for "temple" is בַּיִת (bayit), which can also mean "house," emphasizing the dwelling place for God's name. 3. Hiram's Agreement and Blessing Hiram rejoices upon hearing Solomon's words and blesses the LORD for giving David a wise son to rule over Israel. Hiram agrees to provide the cedar and cypress timber Solomon requests. The Hebrew root for "bless" is בָּרַךְ (barak), indicating a pronouncement of divine favor. 4. Terms of the Agreement Hiram and Solomon establish terms for the timber trade. Solomon promises to provide food for Hiram's household in exchange for the timber. This agreement reflects a mutual benefit and cooperation between the two kingdoms. 5. Solomon's Workforce Solomon raises a labor force from all Israel, numbering thirty thousand men. He sends them to Lebanon in shifts of ten thousand a month, ensuring a continuous supply of timber while allowing the workers time at home. The Hebrew word for "labor force" is מַס (mas), indicating a conscripted workforce. 6. Additional Laborers and Supervisors Solomon also employs seventy thousand burden-bearers and eighty thousand stonecutters in the mountains, along with thirty-three hundred supervisors to oversee the work. This extensive workforce highlights the scale and importance of the temple project. 7. Preparation of Materials The chapter concludes with the preparation of large, costly stones for the foundation of the temple. The collaboration between Solomon's builders, Hiram's builders, and the Gebalites ensures the quality and precision of the materials. The Hebrew word for "foundation" is יָסוּד (yasod), emphasizing the stability and permanence of the temple's base. Lessons from 1 Kings 5 1. The Power of Godly Alliances In 1 Kings 5, we see the fruitful alliance between King Solomon and King Hiram of Tyre. This partnership was built on mutual respect and shared goals, demonstrating the power of godly alliances. "So Hiram sent word to Solomon, saying: 'I have heard the message you sent me; I will do all you desire regarding the cedar and cypress timber'" (1 Kings 5:8). When we align ourselves with others who share our values and vision, we can achieve great things for God's kingdom. 2. Wisdom in Leadership Solomon's wisdom is evident as he organizes the construction of the temple. His ability to delegate and manage resources effectively is a testament to the importance of wisdom in leadership. "The LORD gave Solomon wisdom, just as He had promised him" (1 Kings 5:12). Seeking God's wisdom in our decisions can lead to successful outcomes and glorify Him in our endeavors. 3. The Importance of Preparation Before the first stone of the temple was laid, Solomon meticulously prepared by gathering materials and laborers. This teaches us the value of preparation in our own lives. "Solomon had seventy thousand porters and eighty thousand stonecutters in the mountains" (1 Kings 5:15). By preparing diligently, we can ensure that our efforts are built on a solid foundation. 4. The Role of Peace in Progress Solomon's reign was marked by peace, which allowed him to focus on building the temple. "But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side, and there is no adversary or crisis" (1 Kings 5:4). Peace in our lives can create the space needed for growth and progress, enabling us to focus on fulfilling God's purposes. 5. The Significance of Worship The temple Solomon built was not just a physical structure; it was a place for worship and communion with God. This reminds us of the centrality of worship in our lives. "I intend, therefore, to build a house for the Name of the LORD my God" (1 Kings 5:5). Prioritizing worship helps us stay connected to God and aligned with His will. 6. The Blessing of Generosity King Hiram's generous provision of materials for the temple highlights the blessing of generosity. "Hiram supplied Solomon with all the cedar and cypress timber he desired" (1 Kings 5:10). When we give generously, we reflect God's character and contribute to His work on earth. 7. The Value of Skilled Labor Solomon's project required skilled laborers, emphasizing the value of expertise and craftsmanship. "Solomon had seventy thousand porters and eighty thousand stonecutters in the mountains" (1 Kings 5:15). Our unique skills and talents are gifts from God, meant to be used for His glory and the benefit of others. 8. The Impact of a Shared Vision Solomon and Hiram shared a vision for the temple, which united their efforts and resources. "So Hiram sent word to Solomon, saying: 'I have heard the message you sent me; I will do all you desire regarding the cedar and cypress timber'" (1 Kings 5:8). A shared vision can inspire collaboration and drive us toward common goals. 9. The Legacy of Obedience Solomon's obedience to God's command to build the temple left a lasting legacy. "I intend, therefore, to build a house for the Name of the LORD my God, as the LORD told my father David" (1 Kings 5:5). Our obedience to God's instructions can have a profound impact, influencing future generations and advancing His kingdom. 10. The Assurance of God's Promises Throughout the chapter, we see the fulfillment of God's promises to Solomon. "The LORD gave Solomon wisdom, just as He had promised him" (1 Kings 5:12). Trusting in God's promises provides us with assurance and confidence as we navigate life's challenges, knowing that He is faithful to His word. Topics 1. Alliance with Hiram, King of Tyre In 1 Kings 5, Solomon forms an alliance with Hiram, the king of Tyre. This partnership is significant as it demonstrates Solomon's diplomatic skills and the importance of international relations in the ancient Near East. Hiram had been a friend of David, Solomon's father, and this relationship is continued through Solomon. The Hebrew word for "alliance" (בְּרִית, ^berit^) underscores the formal and binding nature of this agreement. 2. Solomon's Request for Cedar and Cypress Wood Solomon requests cedar and cypress wood from Hiram to build the temple. The choice of these materials highlights their durability and value, as cedar was highly prized in the ancient world. The Hebrew term for cedar (אֶרֶז, ^erez^) is often associated with strength and longevity, symbolizing the enduring nature of the temple Solomon intends to build. 3. Hiram's Response and Agreement Hiram responds positively to Solomon's request, expressing joy and willingness to supply the timber. This response reflects the mutual respect and cooperation between the two leaders. The passage emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the fulfillment of God's plans through human partnerships. 4. Labor Force for Temple Construction Solomon organizes a large labor force to assist in the temple's construction, including conscripted laborers from Israel. This workforce is described in detail, highlighting the scale and ambition of the temple project. The Hebrew word for "laborers" (סַבָּל, ^sabal^) indicates those who bear burdens, reflecting the significant effort required for this monumental task. 5. Peace and Prosperity under Solomon's Reign The chapter concludes by noting the peace and prosperity that characterized Solomon's reign, which allowed for such grand projects to be undertaken. This peace is seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to David, Solomon's father. The Hebrew word for peace (שָׁלוֹם, ^shalom^) encompasses not only the absence of conflict but also completeness and well-being, underscoring the blessings of Solomon's rule. Themes 1. Divine Wisdom and Leadership In 1 Kings 5, Solomon's wisdom is highlighted as a gift from God, enabling him to lead effectively. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew word "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), meaning wisdom, which is a central attribute of Solomon's reign. The chapter illustrates how Solomon's wisdom facilitates diplomatic relations and the successful planning of the temple construction. 2. Peaceful Diplomacy and Alliances The chapter emphasizes the importance of peaceful diplomacy, as seen in Solomon's alliance with Hiram, king of Tyre. This alliance is based on mutual respect and benefit, showcasing the Hebrew concept of "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), meaning peace. Solomon's ability to maintain peace with neighboring nations is a testament to his wise and godly leadership. 3. Preparation for Temple Construction A significant theme is the meticulous preparation for building the temple, which underscores the importance of worship and dedication to God. The Hebrew word "בַּיִת" (bayit), meaning house or temple, signifies the central place of worship and God's dwelling among His people. Solomon's commitment to this project reflects his devotion to fulfilling his father David's vision. 4. Labor and Cooperation The chapter details the organization of labor and resources, highlighting themes of cooperation and community effort. The Hebrew term "עֲבֹדָה" (avodah), meaning labor or service, is evident in the collaboration between Israelites and Tyrians. This cooperation exemplifies the unity and shared purpose in accomplishing God's work. 5. Fulfillment of God's Promises Solomon's actions in 1 Kings 5 are seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to David regarding the establishment of a temple. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "בְּרִית" (berit), meaning covenant. The chapter reflects God's faithfulness in keeping His covenant with David and the Israelites, as Solomon takes steps to build the temple. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment in leadership roles, asking God to guide your decisions and actions. Ask God to foster unity and cooperation within your community, church, and family, so that His purposes may be fulfilled. Seek God's blessing and provision for the projects and endeavors you undertake in His name. Pray for the ability to organize and plan effectively, trusting that God will bless your efforts as you work diligently for His glory. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can we verify Hiram’s historicity and alliance with Solomon mentioned in 1 Kings 5:1–12, given limited external records? 2. Is there archaeological evidence for the massive cedar shipments from Lebanon described in 1 Kings 5:6–10? 3. How plausible is the vast conscripted labor force of tens of thousands in 1 Kings 5:13–16, given population estimates of the time? 4. Why do other historical sources not mention Solomon’s supposed peaceful reign “on every side” in 1 Kings 5:4? 5. How can one reconcile the temple-building timeline in 1 Kings 5:5 with different dates given in other biblical passages? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Solomon's approach to King Hiram teach us about communication and diplomacy? 2. How does Solomon's reasoning for building the temple reflect on his understanding of God's covenant? 3. In what ways does the interaction between Solomon and Hiram show respect and mutual benefit? 4. What can we learn from Solomon's workforce management in our own professional lives? 5. How does the notion of fulfilling David's dream resonate with the idea of carrying on legacies in today's world? 6. In your opinion, does Solomon's wisdom manifest in his actions in this chapter? How? 7. How does Solomon's management of his labor force illustrate his concern for his people's welfare? 8. How can you apply the principle of wisdom as depicted by Solomon in your everyday decisions? 9. In what ways does Solomon set an example of honoring God's covenant in your life? 10. How does Solomon's preparation for building the temple inspire you to prepare for big projects or life changes? 11. How can the concept of peaceful collaboration, as seen in the covenant between Solomon and Hiram, be applied in our contemporary global politics? 12. How do you think Solomon's people felt about the massive project he undertook? How would you feel as part of such a significant task? 13. How does the alliance between Solomon and Hiram reflect on international cooperation in the present day? 14. Do you think the rotational labor system was fair and effective? Why or why not? 15. What kind of leader do you perceive Solomon to be, based on this chapter? How can you emulate these leadership qualities in your own life? 16. How does Solomon's desire to build a temple for the Lord inspire your personal faith journey? 17. How can the principles of diplomacy and negotiation, as demonstrated by Solomon and Hiram, be applied in resolving personal conflicts? 18. How does the fulfillment of David's dream through Solomon speak to you about the importance of legacy and future generations in your own life? 19. How can the covenant made between Solomon and Hiram guide you in making agreements or partnerships in your personal or professional life? 20. What lessons can you take from Solomon's careful planning and preparation for the temple building project to apply to your life goals and ambitions? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions