What is the meaning of 1 Kings 5:6? Now therefore “Now therefore” (1 Kings 5:6) links Solomon’s request to what precedes it—his covenant of peace with Hiram (vv. 1-5). Because God had granted rest (1 Chron 22:9-10), Solomon could shift from warfare to worship and construction: • Similar “now” transitions mark covenantal action in Exodus 19:5 and Joshua 24:14. • The phrase underscores urgency: the time is ripe to build the temple foretold in 2 Samuel 7:13. Order that cedars of Lebanon be cut down for me Cedars of Lebanon were famed for height, strength, and fragrance (Psalm 92:12; Isaiah 35:2). Solomon asks Hiram to command their harvesting: • Lebanon’s cedars had already supplied David’s palace (2 Samuel 5:11). • Temple specifications called for the best materials (1 Kings 6:9-18), echoing the excellence of God’s dwelling (Exodus 25:8). • The literal request reflects historical trade routes between Israel and Phoenicia. My servants will be with your servants Solomon offers a collaborative workforce: • Cooperation mirrors earlier alliances (Genesis 14:13; Judges 4:2). • Shared labor prefigures the unity of Jew and Gentile in kingdom service (Isaiah 60:10-13; Ephesians 2:14-18). • Practically, Israelite laborers would aid in transport (1 Kings 5:15-18). I will pay your servants whatever wages you set Solomon pledges fair compensation: • Leviticus 19:13 forbids withholding wages; Solomon honors this ethic. • Later fulfillment shows payment in wheat, oil, and wine (2 Chron 2:10). • Generosity anticipates Jesus’ teaching on laborers’ wages (Matthew 20:1-15). For you know that there are none among us as skilled in logging as the Sidonians Acknowledging Phoenician expertise: • Sidonians’ seafaring and timber skills were renowned (Ezekiel 27:8-9). • Humility in recognizing others’ gifts reflects Proverbs 27:2. • Their craftsmanship parallels Bezalel’s Spirit-filled artistry (Exodus 31:3-5), underscoring that excellence in work honors God. summary Solomon’s request blends urgency, excellence, partnership, fairness, and humility. He seeks superior cedar from Lebanon, invites cooperative labor, promises just wages, and honors Sidonian skill—all to build a temple worthy of the Lord. 1 Kings 5:6 illustrates how godly leadership mobilizes resources and people for worship, foreshadowing the greater house God builds in Christ. |
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