Topical Bible: David: King of Israel: Friendship of, With Hiram, King of Tyre

◄ David: King of Israel: Friendship of, With Hiram, King of Tyre ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

David, the second king of Israel, is renowned for his military conquests, poetic contributions to the Psalms, and his heart for God. Among his notable relationships was his friendship with Hiram, the king of Tyre. This alliance is significant in the biblical narrative, highlighting the diplomatic and economic interactions between Israel and its neighboring states during David's reign.

Biblical Account

The friendship between David and Hiram is first mentioned in 2 Samuel 5:11: "Now Hiram king of Tyre sent envoys to David, along with cedar logs, carpenters, and stonemasons, and they built a palace for David." This verse underscores the mutual respect and cooperation between the two monarchs. Hiram's provision of materials and skilled labor for David's palace construction signifies a strong diplomatic bond and mutual benefit.

Historical and Cultural Context

Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city-state, was known for its wealth, maritime prowess, and skilled artisans. The alliance with Tyre provided Israel with access to these resources, which were crucial for David's building projects and the economic prosperity of his kingdom. The Phoenicians, including the people of Tyre, were renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in working with cedar wood, which was highly prized in the ancient Near East.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the friendship between David and Hiram can be seen as part of God's providential plan to establish and strengthen the kingdom of Israel. The alliance facilitated the construction of significant structures, including David's palace, which symbolized the stability and legitimacy of his reign. This relationship also foreshadows the later collaboration between Hiram and Solomon, David's son, in building the Temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 5:1-12).

Legacy and Influence

The friendship between David and Hiram set a precedent for international relations in the ancient world, demonstrating how alliances could be formed based on mutual respect and shared interests. This relationship also highlights the importance of diplomacy and cooperation in achieving national goals and fostering peace.

In summary, the friendship between David and Hiram, king of Tyre, is a testament to the strategic alliances that characterized David's reign. It reflects the broader narrative of God's provision and the unfolding of His purposes through the history of Israel.

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2 Samuel 5:11
And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and carpenters, and masons: and they built David an house.
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1 Kings 5:1
And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants to Solomon; for he had heard that they had anointed him king in the room of his father: for Hiram was ever a lover of David.
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Library

The History of Solomon
... made me thy servant to reign for my father David. ... And Solomon sent letters to Hiram,
king of Tyre, for to ... Solomon chose out workmen of all Israel the number of ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/the history of solomon.htm

The Antiquities of the Jews
... King Of Syria And Pekah King Of Israel, Made War ... How, Upon Herod's Going Down Into
David's Sepulcher, The ... And Bound Him; Whom Yet Archelaus King Of Cappadocia ...
//christianbookshelf.org/josephus/the antiquities of the jews/

Demonstration v. --Of Wars.
... And since the years of that King of Tyre were many, all ... in the ancient time, in the
days of David and of ... Hiram was a friend to those of the house of Israel. ...
/.../aphrahat/aphrahat select demonstrations/demonstration v of wars.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... the ark of the covenant"The Philistine dominion over Israel; Samuel, Saul ... of
Saul"The struggle between Ish-bosheth and David"David sole king, and the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm