1 Kings 5:6

Now 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."

Study Bible

Now therefore, order that cedars of Lebanon be cut down for me.
The cedars of Lebanon were renowned for their quality and strength, often used in ancient construction, including temples and palaces. Lebanon's forests were famous throughout the ancient Near East, and the wood was highly prized. The request to cut down these cedars signifies the importance of the project Solomon was undertaking, which was the building of the Temple in Jerusalem. This act also reflects the fulfillment of David's desire to build a house for the Lord, which Solomon was now executing. The cedars symbolize strength and durability, qualities that are often associated with God's eternal nature.

My servants will be with your servants,
This phrase indicates a cooperative effort between Israel and the people of Tyre, led by King Hiram. It reflects the diplomatic and peaceful relations between the two nations during Solomon's reign. The collaboration also highlights the unity and shared purpose in the construction of the Temple, a place meant for all nations to worship the God of Israel. This cooperation can be seen as a foreshadowing of the unity in Christ, where people from different backgrounds come together for a common purpose.

and I will pay your servants whatever wages you set,
Solomon's offer to pay wages demonstrates fairness and respect for the labor and expertise of the Sidonians. It reflects the biblical principle of fair labor practices and just compensation, as outlined in passages like Leviticus 19:13 and James 5:4. This agreement also underscores the economic interactions and mutual benefits between Israel and its neighbors, promoting peace and prosperity in the region.

for you know that there are none among us as skilled in logging as the Sidonians.”
The Sidonians were known for their expertise in timber work, particularly in felling and transporting the massive cedar trees. This acknowledgment of their skill highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the gifts and talents of others, a principle that is echoed in the New Testament's teaching on the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). The Sidonians' expertise was crucial for the successful completion of the Temple, illustrating how God uses the skills of various people to accomplish His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel, known for his wisdom and for building the temple in Jerusalem. He is the one making the request for cedar wood.

2. Hiram
The king of Tyre, a friend of David, Solomon's father. He is the recipient of Solomon's request and is known for his skilled workers, particularly in timber.

3. Cedars of Lebanon
Renowned for their quality and strength, these trees were highly valued for construction, especially for significant projects like the temple.

4. Sidonians
People from Sidon, a city in Phoenicia, known for their expertise in timber cutting and craftsmanship.

5. Temple Construction
The event for which Solomon is gathering materials, a significant project in Israel's history, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Wisdom in Collaboration
Solomon's request to Hiram demonstrates the importance of seeking expertise and collaborating with others to achieve God's purposes. We should not hesitate to seek help and work together with others in our endeavors.

Valuing Skilled Labor
The acknowledgment of the Sidonians' skill highlights the biblical principle of valuing and respecting the talents and abilities of others. We should appreciate and honor the skills God has given to different people.

Preparation for Worship
Solomon's meticulous preparation for the temple construction underscores the importance of preparing our hearts and lives for worship. Just as Solomon prepared the physical temple, we should prepare ourselves as temples of the Holy Spirit.

Generosity and Fairness
Solomon's willingness to pay Hiram's workers fairly reflects the biblical principle of fairness and generosity in our dealings with others. We should strive to be just and generous in our interactions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's approach to building the temple reflect the importance of preparation and planning in our spiritual lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of collaboration in our church or community projects today?

3. How does the recognition of the Sidonians' skills challenge us to value and respect the talents of others in our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Solomon's willingness to pay fairly for the services he received, and how can we apply these lessons in our business or personal dealings?

5. How does the imagery of the cedars of Lebanon in other scriptures enhance our understanding of their significance in the Bible, and how can this imagery inspire us in our walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 2
This chapter parallels the account in 1 Kings 5, providing additional details about Solomon's preparations for building the temple and his correspondence with Hiram.

Psalm 92:12
This verse uses the imagery of the cedar of Lebanon to describe the righteous, highlighting the strength and stability associated with these trees.

Isaiah 2:13
Cedars of Lebanon are mentioned as symbols of pride and loftiness, which God will humble, showing the dual symbolism of strength and human pride.