1 And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon; for he had heard that they had anointed him king in the room of his father: for Hiram was ever a lover of David.
2 And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying,
3 Thou knowest how that David my father could not build an house unto the name of the LORD his God for the wars which were about him on every side, until the LORD put them under the soles of his feet.
4 But now the LORD my God hath given me rest on every side, [so that there is] neither adversary nor evil occurrent.
5 And, behold, I purpose to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God, as the LORD spake unto David my father, saying, Thy son, whom I will set upon thy throne in thy room, he shall build an house unto my name.
6 Now therefore command thou that they hew me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and my servants shall be with thy servants: and unto thee will I give hire for thy servants according to all that thou shalt appoint: for thou knowest that [there is] not among us any that can skill to hew timber like unto the Sidonians.
7 And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words of Solomon, that he rejoiced greatly, and said, Blessed [be] the LORD this day, which hath given unto David a wise son over this great people.
8 And Hiram sent to Solomon, saying, I have considered the things which thou sentest to me for: [and] I will do all thy desire concerning timber of cedar, and concerning timber of fir.
9 My servants shall bring [them] down from Lebanon unto the sea: and I will convey them by sea in floats unto the place that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to be discharged there, and thou shalt receive [them]: and thou shalt accomplish my desire, in giving food for my household.
10 So Hiram gave Solomon cedar trees and fir trees [according to] all his desire.
11 And Solomon gave Hiram twenty thousand measures of wheat [for] food to his household, and twenty measures of pure oil: thus gave Solomon to Hiram year by year.
12 And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, as he promised him: and there was peace between Hiram and Solomon; and they two made a league together.
13 And king Solomon raised a levy out of all Israel; and the levy was thirty thousand men.
14 And he sent them to Lebanon, ten thousand a month by courses: a month they were in Lebanon, [and] two months at home: and Adoniram [was] over the levy.
15 And Solomon had threescore and ten thousand that bare burdens, and fourscore thousand hewers in the mountains;
16 Beside the chief of Solomon’s officers which [were] over the work, three thousand and three hundred, which ruled over the people that wrought in the work.
17 And the king commanded, and they brought great stones, costly stones, [and] hewed stones, to lay the foundation of the house.
18 And Solomon’s builders and Hiram’s builders did hew [them], and the stonesquarers: so they prepared timber and stones to build the house.
Overview of 1 Kings Chapter 5
1 Kings Chapter 5 details the preparations made by King Solomon for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. This chapter highlights the collaboration between Solomon and Hiram, the king of Tyre, showcasing the importance of alliances and resources in ancient Israelite society. The chapter emphasizes the significance of the Temple as a central place of worship for the Israelites.
Key Themes
- Collaboration and Diplomacy: The relationship between Solomon and Hiram illustrates the importance of diplomatic ties in securing resources.
- Preparation for Worship: The chapter underscores the importance of establishing a dedicated space for worship and the reverence associated with it.
- Resource Management: Solomon’s strategic planning in acquiring materials for the Temple signifies effective leadership and foresight.
Summary of Content
- Solomon’s Intentions: The chapter begins with Solomon expressing his desire to build a Temple for the Lord, as his father David had planned.
- Communication with Hiram: Solomon sends a message to Hiram, the king of Tyre, seeking assistance in the construction project. He acknowledges Hiram’s previous support to David and seeks to renew this alliance.
- Hiram’s Response: Hiram responds positively to Solomon’s request, expressing joy at Solomon’s ascension to the throne and agreeing to provide cedar and fir trees from Lebanon, essential materials for the Temple.
- Logistics and Workforce: Solomon proposes a plan for the workforce needed for the project. He requests Hiram to send skilled laborers and offers to provide food and provisions for Hiram’s workers.
- Agreement on Terms: The two kings agree on the terms of the arrangement, including the provision of materials and labor, highlighting the mutual benefits of their partnership.
- Preparation for Construction: The chapter concludes with Solomon’s preparations, including the gathering of materials and the organization of labor, setting the stage for the monumental task of building the Temple.
Character Analysis
- King Solomon: Portrayed as wise and diplomatic, Solomon demonstrates his leadership qualities through his strategic planning and ability to foster alliances.
- King Hiram: Hiram is depicted as a supportive ally, showcasing the importance of cooperation between neighboring nations for mutual benefit.
Significance of the Temple
The Temple is a central theme in this chapter, representing a physical manifestation of the Israelites’ faith and devotion to God. It serves as:
- A place of worship and sacrifice.
- A symbol of national identity and unity for the Israelites.
- A focal point for religious practices and community gatherings.
Conclusion
1 Kings Chapter 5 sets the groundwork for one of the most significant undertakings in Israelite history—the construction of the Temple. Through Solomon’s diplomatic efforts and Hiram’s cooperation, the chapter illustrates the importance of collaboration in achieving monumental goals. The Temple stands as a testament to the faith and aspirations of the Israelites, marking a pivotal moment in their religious and cultural history.
