King Solomon also assembled a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth in Edom, on the shore of the Red Sea. King Solomon also assembled a fleet of shipsSolomon extended Israel’s influence beyond its traditional land-based economy. The kingdom’s peace, administrative strength, and alliance with Hiram of Tyre made large-scale maritime trade possible. Israel’s prosperity under Solomon displayed God’s faithfulness to His promises, while also placing great responsibility upon the king to use wealth in obedience to the Lord. 2Ch 9:21 For the king had the ships of Tarshish that went…
1Ki 10:22 For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea…
2Ch 8:18 So Hiram sent him ships captained by his servants,…
at Ezion-geber, Ezion-geber stood at the head of the Gulf of Aqaba and provided Israel access to southern maritime trade. The region was associated with copper production and major caravan routes, making it a fitting center for royal industry and commerce. Solomon’s use of the port showed careful stewardship of the territory God had placed under his rule. 2Ch 8:17 Then Solomon went to Ezion-geber and to Eloth…
2Ch 20:36 They agreed to make ships to go to Tarshish…
1Ki 22:48 Jehoshaphat built ships of Tarshish to go to Ophir…
which is near Eloth Eloth was a nearby port settlement that strengthened the value of Ezion-geber as a commercial center. Together, the two locations gave Solomon access to trade routes linking Arabia, Africa, and lands beyond the Red Sea. The ports became outward signs of a kingdom whose peace and order enabled commerce to flourish. Deu 2:8 So we passed by our brothers, the descendants of Esau,…
2Ki 14:22 Azariah was the one who rebuilt Elath…
2Ch 26:2 Uzziah rebuilt Eloth and restored it to Judah…
in Edom, Edom had come under Israelite authority during David’s reign, allowing Solomon to use its southern territory without foreign interference. Israel’s control of Edom fulfilled the wider dominion granted to David’s house and secured access to resources that would otherwise have remained beyond Israel’s reach. Num 20:20-21 But Edom insisted, “You may not pass through.”…
2Sa 8:13-14 And David made a name for himself when he returned…
Gen 36:8 So Esau (that is, Edom) settled in the area of Mount Seir.
on the shore of the Red Sea. The reference concerns the Gulf of Aqaba, the northeastern arm of the Red Sea. From this shore Solomon’s fleet could sail toward Ophir, from which gold and other valuable goods were brought to Jerusalem. The trade enterprise contributed to the splendor of Solomon’s kingdom, yet Israel’s true security rested not in ships, gold, or international influence, but in covenant faithfulness to the Lord. Num 33:10-11 They set out from Elim and camped by the Red Sea.…
Exo 14:21-22 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea,…
Psa 106:9 He rebuked the Red Sea, and it dried up;…
Persons / Places / Events 1. King SolomonThe son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem. In this verse, he is expanding his influence through maritime trade. 2. Ezion-geberA port city located near Eloth, on the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, part of the Red Sea. It served as a strategic location for Solomon's fleet. 3. Eloth (Elat)A city near Ezion-geber, also on the Gulf of Aqaba. It was an important trade hub in the region. 4. Land of EdomA region south of the Dead Sea, inhabited by the descendants of Esau. It was under Israelite control during Solomon's reign. 5. Red SeaA significant body of water that provided a route for trade and exploration. Solomon's fleet would have used this sea to reach distant lands. Teaching Points Wisdom in LeadershipSolomon's decision to build a fleet demonstrates strategic thinking and the importance of expanding trade and influence. Leaders today can learn from his example by seeking wisdom in decision-making and considering long-term impacts. Utilizing ResourcesSolomon used the natural resources and geographical advantages available to him. Believers are encouraged to recognize and utilize the resources God has provided in their own lives for His glory. Collaboration and PartnershipSolomon's collaboration with Hiram of Tyre shows the value of forming alliances and partnerships. Christians can apply this by working together with others in ministry and community efforts. God's Sovereignty Over NationsThe inclusion of Edom under Israelite control during Solomon's reign reminds us of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to fulfill His promises. Stewardship and AccountabilitySolomon's wealth and resources came with the responsibility of stewardship. Believers are called to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to them. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Solomon's decision to build a fleet at Ezion-geber reflect his wisdom and strategic planning as a leader? 2. In what ways can we utilize the resources and opportunities God has given us to expand His kingdom today? 3. What can we learn from Solomon's collaboration with Hiram of Tyre about the importance of partnerships in our personal and spiritual lives? 4. How does the historical significance of Ezion-geber and Eloth enhance our understanding of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His people? 5. Reflect on the concept of stewardship in your own life. How can you be a more faithful steward of the resources and opportunities God has entrusted to you? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Kings 10:22This verse describes Solomon's fleet bringing back gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks, highlighting the wealth and trade connections established through his maritime endeavors. 2 Chronicles 8:17-18These verses parallel the account in 1 Kings, providing additional details about Solomon's collaboration with Hiram of Tyre to build the fleet. Deuteronomy 2:8This passage mentions the Israelites passing by the region of Eloth and Ezion-geber during their wilderness journey, indicating the historical significance of these locations. 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 Beside, Built, Edge, Edom, Elath, Eloth, Ezion, Eziongeber, Ezion-geber, E'zion-ge'ber, Fleet, Geber, Navy, Red, Sea-force, Ships, Shore, Solomon, SuphDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Kings 9:26-28 4333 gold
5407 merchants
5587 trade 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 9:26 NIV1 Kings 9:26 NLT1 Kings 9:26 ESV1 Kings 9:26 NASB1 Kings 9:26 KJV
1 Kings 9:26 Commentaries
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