1 Kings 5:7

When Hiram received Solomon's message, he rejoiced greatly and said, "Blessed be the LORD this day! He has given David a wise son over this great people!"

Study Bible

When Hiram received Solomon’s message
Hiram, the king of Tyre, was a significant ally of both David and Solomon. Tyre was a prominent Phoenician city known for its skilled craftsmen and abundant resources, particularly cedar wood. The relationship between Israel and Tyre was mutually beneficial, with Tyre providing materials and expertise for Israel's building projects. This alliance reflects the broader geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East, where strategic partnerships were crucial for trade and security.

he rejoiced greatly
Hiram's joy upon receiving Solomon's message indicates the strength and positivity of the relationship between the two kingdoms. This joy can be seen as a fulfillment of the peaceful and prosperous reign that Solomon was known for, as prophesied in 1 Chronicles 22:9. The rejoicing also underscores the importance of wisdom and understanding in leadership, which Solomon was renowned for, as seen in 1 Kings 3:12.

and said, “Blessed be the LORD this day!
Hiram's blessing of the LORD, the God of Israel, is significant as it shows recognition and respect for the God of Israel by a foreign king. This acknowledgment can be seen as a testament to the influence and reputation of Israel under Solomon's rule. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations, as seen in passages like Psalm 47:8.

He has given David a wise son
The wisdom of Solomon is a central theme in the biblical narrative, highlighted in 1 Kings 3:12, where God grants Solomon unparalleled wisdom. This wisdom is not only intellectual but also practical, enabling Solomon to govern effectively and maintain peace. The reference to David emphasizes the continuity of God's promises to David's lineage, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:12-16, where God promises to establish David's throne forever.

over this great people!”
The phrase "this great people" acknowledges the significance and size of the nation of Israel. Under Solomon's reign, Israel reached its zenith in terms of territorial expansion, wealth, and influence. This greatness is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:2, where God promises to make Abraham's descendants a great nation. Solomon's rule is a type of Christ's future reign, where Jesus, the Son of David, will rule over all nations with wisdom and justice, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:6-7.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hiram
The king of Tyre, a neighboring kingdom to Israel. Hiram was a friend and ally of King David and continued this alliance with Solomon. He is known for providing materials and craftsmen for the building of the temple.

2. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the construction of the temple in Jerusalem.

3. David
The former king of Israel, father of Solomon, and a man after God's own heart. His reign established the foundation for the prosperity and peace that Solomon would enjoy.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is recognized by Hiram as the source of Solomon's wisdom and the one who has blessed Israel with a wise ruler.

5. The Great People
Refers to the nation of Israel, God's chosen people, whom Solomon was appointed to lead.

Teaching Points

Recognition of God's Blessings
Hiram's response to Solomon's wisdom is to bless the LORD. We should recognize and give thanks for God's blessings in our lives, acknowledging His hand in our successes and the gifts He bestows upon us.

Wisdom as a Divine Gift
Solomon's wisdom is a gift from God, reminding us that true wisdom comes from above. We should seek God's wisdom in our decisions and leadership roles.

The Importance of Godly Alliances
The alliance between Hiram and Solomon shows the value of forming relationships that honor God and support His purposes. We should seek partnerships that align with our faith and values.

Leadership and Responsibility
Solomon's wisdom was given for the purpose of leading God's people. Leaders today should seek God's guidance to lead with integrity and wisdom.

Praise and Worship
Hiram's blessing of the LORD is an act of worship. We should incorporate praise into our daily lives, recognizing God's sovereignty and goodness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hiram's recognition of Solomon's wisdom challenge us to acknowledge God's work in others' lives?

2. In what ways can we seek and apply God's wisdom in our personal and professional decisions?

3. How can we form alliances or partnerships that honor God and further His kingdom purposes?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate praise and thanksgiving into our daily routines?

5. How does Solomon's example of leadership inspire us to take responsibility in our own spheres of influence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:12
This verse highlights God's promise to Solomon to give him unparalleled wisdom, which is recognized by Hiram in 1 Kings 5:7.

2 Chronicles 2:11-12
These verses parallel the account in 1 Kings 5, where Hiram acknowledges the wisdom of Solomon and the blessing of the LORD.

Proverbs 3:13-18
Solomon, traditionally credited with writing Proverbs, extols the value of wisdom, which is a central theme in his reign and recognized by Hiram.

Psalm 72
A psalm attributed to Solomon, which prays for the king's reign to be marked by righteousness and justice, reflecting the wisdom given by God.