Topical Bible: Agriculture: Practiced by Solomon

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Agriculture during the reign of King Solomon is a significant aspect of his administration and reflects the prosperity and wisdom attributed to his rule. Solomon, the son of David, reigned over Israel during a period often considered the zenith of the united monarchy, marked by peace, wealth, and expansive trade. His approach to agriculture was both practical and innovative, contributing to the economic stability and growth of the nation.

Solomon's Agricultural Policies and Practices

Solomon's reign is characterized by extensive building projects, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, his royal palace, and various other infrastructure developments. These projects required a stable and prosperous agricultural base to support the workforce and the population. Solomon's wisdom, as granted by God, extended to his understanding of agriculture and natural resources, which he utilized to enhance the kingdom's productivity.

The Bible provides insight into Solomon's agricultural practices, highlighting his administrative organization and the prosperity of the land. In 1 Kings 4:22-23 , it is noted that Solomon's provisions for one day included "thirty cors of fine flour and sixty cors of meal, ten fat oxen, twenty pasture-fed cattle, a hundred sheep and goats, besides deer, gazelles, roebucks, and fattened poultry." This passage underscores the abundance and variety of produce available during his reign, indicative of a well-managed agricultural system.

Land Management and Agricultural Output

Solomon's administration was marked by effective land management, which included the division of the kingdom into twelve districts, each overseen by an official responsible for providing supplies for the king and his household. This system ensured a steady flow of agricultural produce and resources to the capital, supporting both the royal court and the broader population.

The fertile land of Israel, combined with Solomon's strategic alliances and trade agreements, allowed for the import and export of various goods, further enhancing the kingdom's agricultural output. Solomon's wisdom in trade is exemplified in 1 Kings 10:28-29 , where it is mentioned that "Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue." This trade network not only brought wealth but also introduced new agricultural techniques and products to Israel.

Agricultural Wisdom and Proverbs

Solomon's wisdom is also reflected in the biblical Proverbs, many of which offer insights into agricultural practices and principles. Proverbs 27:23-27 advises, "Be sure to know the state of your flocks, and pay close attention to your herds; for riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to every generation. When hay is removed and new growth appears and the grain from the hills is gathered, the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field. You will have plenty of goats’ milk to feed you, your family, and your maidservants." These proverbs emphasize the importance of diligence, foresight, and stewardship in agricultural endeavors.

Conclusion

Solomon's reign is a testament to the importance of agriculture in sustaining a prosperous and stable society. His wisdom in managing the land and resources of Israel contributed significantly to the kingdom's wealth and success, leaving a legacy that is remembered in biblical history.

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Ecclesiastes 2:4-6
I made me great works; I built me houses; I planted me vineyards:
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Library

The Order of Thought which Surrounded the Development of Jesus.
... Song of Solomon ii.3, 5, 13, iv.13 ... Traces of the ancient Palestinian agriculture,
with its troughs ... In Galilee were wanting the marble, the practiced workmen, the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/renan/the life of jesus/chapter iv the order of.htm

Ancestors of the Blessed virgin
... They practiced these separations chiefly when they were ... engaged in cattle breeding
and agriculture, but specially ... descended from David through Solomon and was ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/i ancestors of the blessed.htm

Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility
... Agriculture, a necessary art, [76]354; yet vain without that of ruling, [77]355;
a sort of rule, ie, over plants, [78]ib.; its dependence on God's providence ...
/.../abraham his trial in egypt.htm