The provision for Solomon's household is a testament to the wealth, organization, and prosperity of King Solomon's reign over Israel. This provision is detailed in the biblical account found in 1 Kings 4:22-28, which offers insight into the daily requirements necessary to sustain the king's court and the administrative structure that supported it.

Daily Provisions

According to 1 Kings 4:22-23 , "Solomon’s provisions for one day were thirty cors of fine flour, sixty cors of meal, ten fat oxen, twenty pasture-fed cattle, a hundred sheep, and goats, besides deer, gazelles, roebucks, and fattened poultry." This extensive list of daily provisions underscores the grandeur and scale of Solomon's household. The quantities of flour and meal indicate the need to feed a large number of people, including the king's family, servants, and officials. The variety of meats, including both domesticated and wild animals, reflects the abundance and diversity of resources available to the king.

Administrative Structure

The provision for Solomon's household was managed by a well-organized administrative system. 1 Kings 4:7-19 describes the appointment of twelve district governors, each responsible for supplying provisions for one month of the year. This system ensured a steady and reliable flow of resources to the royal court. Each governor was responsible for a specific region, and their duties included collecting and delivering the necessary supplies to sustain the king's household.

Economic and Political Implications

The ability to maintain such a lavish provision for Solomon's household is indicative of the economic prosperity and political stability during his reign. The centralized administration and the division of responsibilities among the district governors reflect a sophisticated governance structure. This system not only supported the daily needs of the royal court but also reinforced the king's authority and control over the various regions of Israel.

Symbol of Wisdom and Prosperity

Solomon's provision is often seen as a symbol of his wisdom and the prosperity that characterized his reign. The abundance of resources and the efficient management of his household are consistent with the biblical portrayal of Solomon as a wise and discerning ruler. His ability to maintain such a provision is frequently attributed to the divine blessing and favor he received from God, as described in 1 Kings 3:12-13 , where God grants Solomon wisdom and wealth beyond any other king.

In summary, the provision for Solomon's household is a reflection of the wealth, organization, and divine favor that marked his reign. It highlights the economic and administrative capabilities of his kingdom and serves as a testament to the prosperity and stability that characterized Israel under Solomon's rule.