1 Kings 11:1

King Solomon, however, loved many foreign women along with the daughter of Pharaoh--women of Moab, Ammon, Edom, and Sidon, as well as Hittite women.

Study Bible

King Solomon
The name Solomon is derived from the Hebrew word "Shlomo," which is related to "shalom," meaning peace. Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is renowned for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the First Temple in Jerusalem. His reign is often seen as a golden age for Israel, marked by prosperity and peace. However, this verse marks the beginning of a narrative shift, highlighting Solomon's human frailty and the consequences of his actions.

however
This conjunction introduces a contrast to the preceding chapters that describe Solomon's wisdom and achievements. It signals a turning point in the narrative, where Solomon's personal choices begin to diverge from God's commandments. This serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God, regardless of one's accomplishments or status.

loved
The Hebrew word used here is "ahav," which can denote a range of affections, from familial love to romantic desire. In this context, it suggests a deep emotional attachment that goes beyond political alliances. Solomon's love for these women indicates a personal choice that ultimately leads him away from exclusive devotion to God.

many foreign women
The term "foreign" highlights the cultural and religious differences between these women and the Israelites. Marrying foreign women was explicitly prohibited in Deuteronomy 7:3-4, as it could lead to idolatry. Solomon's actions reflect a compromise of his spiritual integrity, prioritizing personal desires over divine commandments.

along with the daughter of Pharaoh
This phrase underscores the political alliances Solomon formed through marriage. The daughter of Pharaoh represents a significant political alliance with Egypt, a powerful neighboring nation. While such alliances were common in ancient Near Eastern politics, they often came with spiritual and cultural compromises.

women of Moab, Ammon, Edom, and Sidon
These nations were historical adversaries of Israel, each with its own pantheon of gods and religious practices. The inclusion of women from these nations in Solomon's harem suggests a blending of cultures and religions, which posed a threat to the purity of Israel's worship of Yahweh. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the dangers of syncretism.

as well as Hittite women
The Hittites were an ancient Anatolian people known for their advanced civilization and military prowess. Marrying Hittite women further illustrates Solomon's extensive network of political alliances. However, it also highlights his disregard for God's command to remain separate from the surrounding nations to preserve Israel's covenant identity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem. However, his reign is also marked by his marriages to foreign women, which led him away from God.

2. Foreign Women
These women came from various nations surrounding Israel, including Moab, Ammon, Edom, Sidon, and the Hittites. Marriages to these women were politically motivated but spiritually detrimental.

3. Pharaoh's Daughter
She was Solomon's first foreign wife, symbolizing a political alliance with Egypt. This marriage set a precedent for Solomon's subsequent unions with other foreign women.

4. Moab, Ammon, Edom, Sidon, Hittites
These are the nations from which Solomon's wives came. Each had its own deities and religious practices, which influenced Solomon and led to idolatry in Israel.

5. Idolatry
The worship of foreign gods introduced by Solomon's wives, which ultimately led to Solomon's spiritual decline and the division of the kingdom after his death.

Teaching Points

Guarding Against Compromise
Solomon's marriages illustrate the danger of compromising one's faith for political or personal gain. Believers are called to remain steadfast in their devotion to God.

Influence of Relationships
The people we form close relationships with can significantly influence our spiritual walk. It's crucial to choose relationships that encourage and strengthen our faith.

Consequences of Disobedience
Solomon's disobedience to God's commands regarding marriage led to personal and national consequences. Obedience to God's Word is essential for a blessed life.

The Subtlety of Sin
Solomon's gradual shift from wisdom to folly shows how sin can subtly infiltrate our lives. Vigilance and accountability are necessary to maintain spiritual integrity.

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
As a leader, Solomon's actions had far-reaching effects on the nation. Spiritual leaders must model faithfulness to God to guide others effectively.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Solomon's decision to marry foreign women, and how can we apply this lesson to our own choices in relationships?

2. How do the warnings in Deuteronomy 7:3-4 and Exodus 34:16 relate to Solomon's actions in 1 Kings 11:1?

3. In what ways can we guard against the subtle influences that may lead us away from our faith?

4. How does Solomon's account in 1 Kings 11:1 serve as a warning for spiritual leaders today?

5. Reflect on a time when a relationship influenced your spiritual walk. What steps can you take to ensure your relationships align with your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
This passage warns the Israelites against intermarrying with foreign nations to prevent turning away from God to serve other gods.

Nehemiah 13:26
Nehemiah references Solomon's marriages as a cautionary tale of how even a wise king was led into sin by foreign women.

Exodus 34:16
This verse warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, which could lead to idolatry.