Topical Bible: Solomon: Builds Millo

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Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, is renowned for his wisdom, wealth, and extensive building projects, which include the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. Among his numerous architectural achievements, Solomon's work on Millo stands out as a significant endeavor in fortifying the city of Jerusalem.

Biblical References

The construction of Millo is mentioned in several passages within the Old Testament. In 1 Kings 9:15 , it is recorded: "This is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon conscripted to build the house of the LORD, his own palace, the supporting terraces, the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer." The term "supporting terraces" is often understood to refer to Millo, a structure or series of terraces that played a crucial role in the defense and expansion of Jerusalem.

Further reference to Millo is found in 1 Kings 11:27 , which states: "This is the reason Jeroboam rebelled against the king: Solomon had built the supporting terraces and repaired the gap in the wall of the city of his father David." This passage highlights the strategic importance of Millo in maintaining the integrity and security of the city.

Historical and Archaeological Context

Millo is believed to have been a significant part of the fortifications of ancient Jerusalem. The exact nature of Millo is debated among scholars, with some suggesting it was a stepped stone structure or a series of terraces that supported the city's defenses. Archaeological excavations in the area known as the City of David have uncovered large stone structures that some identify with Millo, providing insight into the scale and complexity of Solomon's building projects.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Solomon's construction of Millo reflects his commitment to securing and enhancing the city of Jerusalem, which held profound religious and political significance for the Israelites. By fortifying the city, Solomon not only protected the inhabitants but also ensured the safety of the Temple, the dwelling place of the LORD, which he had built as a central place of worship for the nation.

Solomon's building projects, including Millo, are often seen as a fulfillment of the divine promise to David that his son would establish a kingdom marked by peace and prosperity. However, the use of forced labor for these projects, as mentioned in 1 Kings 9:15, also foreshadows the eventual division of the kingdom, as discontent among the people grew under the burden of such labor.

Legacy

Solomon's construction of Millo is a testament to his ambition and vision for a fortified and prosperous Jerusalem. It underscores the importance of strategic planning and resource management in the establishment of a strong and enduring kingdom. Millo, as part of Solomon's broader building initiatives, contributed to the legacy of his reign as a period of unprecedented growth and development in Israel's history.

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1 Kings 9:15-19
And this is the reason of the levy which king Solomon raised; for to build the house of the LORD, and his own house, and Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.
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2 Chronicles 9:25
And Solomon had four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen; whom he bestowed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.
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Library

And ii.
... of building it up by righteousness." Righteousness builds up, because ... the example
of the Song of Solomon, where it ... Zion, and of the castle of Millo which David ...
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