King Solomon gave twenty towns in the land of Galilee to Hiram king of Tyre, who had supplied him with cedar and cypress logs and gold for his every desire. Now King SolomonThe phrase "Now King Solomon" introduces us to the central figure of this passage, Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, who was renowned for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. In Hebrew, "Solomon" (שְׁלֹמֹה, Shlomo) is derived from the root word "shalom," meaning peace. Solomon's reign is often seen as a time of peace and prosperity for Israel, fulfilling God's promise to David that his son would build the temple and establish a kingdom of peace. gave Hiram
The act of giving here is significant in the context of ancient Near Eastern diplomacy. Hiram, the king of Tyre, was a key ally and trading partner of Solomon. The Hebrew word for "gave" (נָתַן, natan) implies a transfer of possession or a gift, which in this context, reflects the strong political and economic alliance between Israel and Tyre. Hiram had provided Solomon with cedar and cypress timber and gold for his building projects, and this gift of cities was a form of compensation or gratitude. twenty cities
The "twenty cities" mentioned are part of a larger geopolitical and economic strategy. In ancient times, cities were not just population centers but also hubs of trade and military strength. By giving these cities, Solomon was not only rewarding Hiram but also potentially securing his northern border and ensuring continued peace and prosperity. The number twenty may symbolize completeness or a significant portion, indicating the substantial nature of this gift. in the land of Galilee
Galilee, in the northern part of Israel, is a region with a rich biblical history. The Hebrew term "Galilee" (גָּלִיל, Galil) means "circuit" or "district." This area was known for its fertile land and strategic location, making it valuable for trade and agriculture. However, the fact that Solomon gave these cities away suggests they might not have been as prosperous or significant at the time, possibly due to their mixed population or distance from the central power in Jerusalem. This act also foreshadows the later significance of Galilee in the New Testament as the region where Jesus would conduct much of His ministry. Persons / Places / Events 1. Hiram, King of TyreA significant ally of King Solomon, Hiram was the ruler of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city. He provided Solomon with materials and skilled laborers for the construction of the temple and Solomon's palace. 2. Solomon, King of IsraelThe son of David and Bathsheba, Solomon was known for his wisdom, wealth, and extensive building projects, including the temple in Jerusalem. 3. Cedar and CypressThese were valuable materials used in ancient construction, particularly for the temple and royal buildings. Cedar was prized for its durability and fragrance. 4. GoldA symbol of wealth and divine blessing, gold was used extensively in the temple and Solomon's palace, signifying the prosperity of Solomon's reign. 5. GalileeA region in northern Israel, which Solomon gave to Hiram as a gesture of gratitude for his support and resources. Teaching Points The Importance of AlliancesSolomon's relationship with Hiram demonstrates the value of forming strategic alliances. In our lives, we should seek partnerships that align with our values and goals. Generosity and GratitudeSolomon's gift of cities to Hiram shows a spirit of generosity and gratitude. We are called to express thankfulness and share our blessings with others. Wise StewardshipThe use of resources like cedar, cypress, and gold reflects wise stewardship. We should manage our resources prudently, using them to honor God and benefit others. Fulfillment of PromisesSolomon fulfilled his promise to Hiram, reminding us of the importance of keeping our commitments and being trustworthy in our dealings. The Role of Material WealthWhile Solomon's wealth was a sign of God's blessing, it also came with responsibilities. We should view our material possessions as tools for service, not just personal gain. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the alliance between Solomon and Hiram reflect the importance of building relationships with others? Can you think of a modern example where such alliances are beneficial? 2. In what ways can we show gratitude and generosity in our own lives, similar to Solomon's gesture to Hiram? 3. How can we apply the principle of wise stewardship in managing our personal resources today? 4. What are some promises or commitments you have made that you need to fulfill? How can you ensure you remain faithful to them? 5. Reflect on the role of material wealth in your life. How can you use your resources to serve God and others, rather than just for personal gain? Connections to Other Scriptures 2 Chronicles 8:2This passage provides additional context about Solomon's dealings with Hiram and the cities given to him. 1 Kings 5:1-12Details the initial agreement between Solomon and Hiram, highlighting their cooperative relationship. Psalm 72A psalm attributed to Solomon, reflecting the prosperity and peace during his reign, which was partly due to alliances like the one with Hiram. People Amorites, Canaanites, David, Geber, Gibeon, Hiram, Hittites, Hivite, Hivites, Israelites, Jebusites, Ophir, Perizzites, Pharaoh, Solomon, TamarPlaces Baalath, Beth-horon, Brook of Egypt, Cabul, Edom, Egypt, Eloth, Ezion-geber, Galilee, Gezer, Gibeon, Hazor, Jerusalem, Lebanon, Megiddo, Millo, Ophir, Red Sea, Tamar, TyreTopics Cedar, Desire, Fir, Furnished, Galilee, Gold, Hiram, Pine, Solomon, Supplied, Towns, Trees, Twenty, Tyre, WantedDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Kings 9:11 4424 cedar
4528 trees Library Promises and Threatenings
'And it came to pass, when Solomon had finished the building of the house of the Lord, and the king's house, and all Solomon's desire which he was pleased to do. 2. That the Lord appeared to Solomon the second time, as He had appeared unto him at Gibeon. 3. And the Lord said unto him, I have heard thy prayer and thy supplication, that thou hast made before Me: I have hallowed this house, which thou hast built, to put My name there for ever; and Mine eyes and Mine heart shall be there perpetually, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureGadara
There was a double Gadara. One at the shore of the Mediterranean sea: that was first called Gezer, 1 Kings 9:15. In Josephus, "Simon destroyed the city Gazara, and Joppe, and Jamnia."--And in the Book of the Maccabees, "And he fortified Joppe, which is on the sea, and Gazara, which is on the borders of Azotus." At length, according to the idiom of the Syrian dialect, Zain passed into Daleth; and instead of Gazara, it was called Gadara. Hence Strabo, after the mention of Jamnia, saith, "and there …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Whether Solicitude Belongs to Prudence?
Objection 1: It would seem that solicitude does not belong to prudence. For solicitude implies disquiet, wherefore Isidore says (Etym. x) that "a solicitous man is a restless man." Now motion belongs chiefly to the appetitive power: wherefore solicitude does also. But prudence is not in the appetitive power, but in the reason, as stated above [2746](A[1]). Therefore solicitude does not belong to prudence. Objection 2: Further, the certainty of truth seems opposed to solicitude, wherefore it is related …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Whether Prophecy Pertains to Knowledge?
Objection 1: It would seem that prophecy does not pertain to knowledge. For it is written (Ecclus. 48:14) that after death the body of Eliseus prophesied, and further on (Ecclus. 49:18) it is said of Joseph that "his bones were visited, and after death they prophesied." Now no knowledge remains in the body or in the bones after death. Therefore prophecy does not pertain to knowledge. Objection 2: Further, it is written (1 Cor. 14:3): "He that prophesieth, speaketh to men unto edification." Now speech …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Whether it is Lawful to Give and Receive Money for Spiritual Actions?
Objection 1: It seems that it is lawful to give and receive money for spiritual actions. The use of prophecy is a spiritual action. But something used to be given of old for the use of prophecy, as appears from 1 Kings 9:7,8, and 3 Kings 14:3. Therefore it would seem that it is lawful to give and receive money for a spiritual action. Objection 2: Further, prayer, preaching, divine praise, are most spiritual actions. Now money is given to holy persons in order to obtain the assistance of their prayers, …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica The Seven Seas According to the Talmudists, and the Four Rivers Compassing the Land.
"Seven seas (say they) and four rivers compass the land of Israel. I. The Great Sea, or the Mediterranean. II. The sea of Tiberias. III. The sea of Sodom. IV. The lake of Samocho... The three first named among the seven are sufficiently known, and there is no doubt of the fourth:--only the three names of it are not to be passed by. IV. 1. The Sibbichaean. The word seems to be derived from a bush. 2. ... 3. ... V. Perhaps the sandy sea. Which fits very well to the lake of Sirbon, joining the commentary …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica How to Split a Kingdom
And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king. 2. And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was yet in Egypt, heard of it (for he was fled from the presence of king Solomon, and Jeroboam dwelt in Egypt); 3. That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying, 4. Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore make thou the grievous service of thy father, and his heavy yoke which he …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Greater Prophets.
1. We have already seen (Chap. 15, Nos. 11 and 12) that from Moses to Samuel the appearances of prophets were infrequent; that with Samuel and the prophetical school established by him there began a new era, in which the prophets were recognized as a distinct order of men in the Theocracy; and that the age of written prophecy did not begin till about the reign of Uzziah, some three centuries after Samuel. The Jewish division of the latter prophets--prophets in the more restricted sense of the …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible Beginning at Jerusalem
The whole verse runs thus: "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." The words were spoken by Christ, after he rose from the dead, and they are here rehearsed after an historical manner, but do contain in them a formal commission, with a special clause therein. The commission is, as you see, for the preaching of the gospel, and is very distinctly inserted in the holy record by Matthew and Mark. "Go teach all nations," …
John Bunyan—Jerusalem Sinner Saved The Coast of the Asphaltites, the Essenes. En-Gedi.
"On the western shore" (of the Asphaltites) "dwell the Essenes; whom persons, guilty of any crimes, fly from on every side. A nation it is that lives alone, and of all other nations in the whole world, most to be admired; they are without any woman; all lust banished, &c. Below these, was the town Engadda, the next to Jerusalem for fruitfulness, and groves of palm-trees, now another burying-place. From thence stands Massada, a castle in a rock, and this castle not far from the Asphaltites." Solinus, …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica In Galilee at the Time of Our Lord
"If any one wishes to be rich, let him go north; if he wants to be wise, let him come south." Such was the saying, by which Rabbinical pride distinguished between the material wealth of Galilee and the supremacy in traditional lore claimed for the academies of Judaea proper. Alas, it was not long before Judaea lost even this doubtful distinction, and its colleges wandered northwards, ending at last by the Lake of Gennesaret, and in that very city of Tiberias which at one time had been reputed unclean! …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life The Jerusalem Sinner Saved;
OR, GOOD NEWS FOR THE VILEST OF MEN; BEING A HELP FOR DESPAIRING SOULS, SHOWING THAT JESUS CHRIST WOULD HAVE MERCY IN THE FIRST PLACE OFFERED TO THE BIGGEST SINNERS. THE THIRD EDITION, IN WHICH IS ADDED, AN ANSWER TO THOSE GRAND OBJECTIONS THAT LIE IN THE WAY OF THE THEM THAT WOULD BELIEVE: FOR THE COMFORT OF THEM THAT FEAR THEY HAVE SINNED AGAINST THE HOLY GHOST. BY JOHN BUNYAN, OF BEDFORD. London: Printed for Elizabeth Smith, at the Hand and Bible, on London Bridge, 1691. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Commerce
The remarkable change which we have noticed in the views of Jewish authorities, from contempt to almost affectation of manual labour, could certainly not have been arbitrary. But as we fail to discover here any religious motive, we can only account for it on the score of altered political and social circumstances. So long as the people were, at least nominally, independent, and in possession of their own land, constant engagement in a trade would probably mark an inferior social stage, and imply …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to Christians to be Holy. By John Bunyan.
Holiness becometh thine house, O Lord, for ever.'--[Psalm 93:5] London, by B. W., for Benj. Alsop, at the Angel and Bible, in the Poultrey. 1684. THE EDITOR'S ADVERTISEMENT. This is the most searching treatise that has ever fallen under our notice. It is an invaluable guide to those sincere Christians, who, under a sense of the infinite importance of the salvation of an immortal soul, and of the deceitfulness of their hearts, sigh and cry, "O Lord of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 1 Kings 9:11 NIV1 Kings 9:11 NLT1 Kings 9:11 ESV1 Kings 9:11 NASB1 Kings 9:11 KJV
1 Kings 9:11 Commentaries
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