Topical Encyclopedia The contractual agreements between King Solomon of Israel and King Hiram of Tyre are significant events recorded in the Old Testament, illustrating the diplomatic and economic relationships in the ancient Near East. These contracts are primarily documented in 1 Kings 5 and 2 Chronicles 2, highlighting the collaboration between the two monarchs for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.Background and Context King Solomon, the son of David, ascended to the throne of Israel and was tasked with building a temple for the LORD, a project his father had desired but was not permitted to complete. Solomon's reign is marked by wisdom, wealth, and extensive building projects, with the Temple being the most notable. Hiram, the king of Tyre, ruled over a prosperous Phoenician city-state known for its skilled craftsmen and abundant resources, particularly cedar and cypress timber from the forests of Lebanon. The Agreement The initial contact between Solomon and Hiram is described in 1 Kings 5:1-12. Hiram had been a friend of David, Solomon's father, and upon learning of Solomon's accession, he sent envoys to express his goodwill. Solomon seized this opportunity to request Hiram's assistance in procuring materials for the Temple. Solomon's message to Hiram is recorded in 1 Kings 5:6 : "Now, therefore, command that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay you for your servants according to whatever you say, for you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians." Hiram responded favorably, agreeing to supply the timber in exchange for provisions of food for his household. The terms of the contract are further detailed in 1 Kings 5:10-11 : "So Hiram provided Solomon with all the cedar and cypress timber he wanted, and year after year Solomon provided Hiram with 20,000 cors of wheat as food for his household, as well as 20,000 baths of pure olive oil." Implementation and Cooperation The agreement between Solomon and Hiram was not merely a transaction of goods but also involved a cooperative effort in labor. Solomon arranged for a workforce to assist in the logging and transportation of the timber from Lebanon to Israel. This collaboration is described in 1 Kings 5:13-18, where Solomon conscripted laborers from Israel to work alongside Hiram's men, demonstrating a significant level of trust and mutual benefit. Significance The contract between Solomon and Hiram is a testament to the importance of international alliances and trade in the ancient world. It reflects the interconnectedness of different cultures and the reliance on each other's resources and expertise. The successful completion of the Temple, a central place of worship for the Israelites, was made possible through this partnership, underscoring the value of diplomacy and cooperation. Furthermore, the relationship between Solomon and Hiram is often viewed as a model of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between nations. It highlights the potential for collaboration in achieving common goals, a principle that resonates with the broader biblical theme of unity and harmony among peoples. In summary, the contracts between Solomon and Hiram exemplify the strategic alliances and economic exchanges that characterized the ancient Near East, playing a crucial role in the fulfillment of Solomon's divinely appointed task to build the Temple in Jerusalem. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 5:9-11My servants shall bring them down from Lebanon to the sea: and I will convey them by sea in floats to the place that you shall appoint me, and will cause them to be discharged there, and you shall receive them: and you shall accomplish my desire, in giving food for my household. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 9:11 Library Altar and Temple The Israelites Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) The Rise of the Assyrian Empire Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources What is a covenant marriage? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Wedding Feast? | GotQuestions.org What is Beulah Land? | GotQuestions.org Contract: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Contracts by Consummating in the Presence of the Public at the Gate of the City Contracts by Erecting a Heap of Stones Contracts by Taking off the Shoe Contracts: Between Abraham and Abimelech, Concerning Wells of Water Contracts: Between Solomon and Hiram Contracts: Dissolved by Blotting Out Contracts: Dissolved by Mutual Consent Contracts: First Contract Between Laban and Jacob for Laban's Daughter Contracts: Modes of Ratifying by Giving Presents Contracts: Scriptures Illustrative of the Binding Force of Related Terms |
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