Topical Bible: Kings: Officers of Providers for the King's Table

◄ Kings: Officers of Providers for the King's Table ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the ancient Israelite monarchy, the role of officers responsible for provisioning the king's table was a significant aspect of the royal administration. These officers were tasked with ensuring that the king and his household were supplied with the necessary food and provisions, reflecting the wealth and splendor of the monarchy. The Bible provides insight into this role, particularly during the reign of King Solomon, whose court was renowned for its opulence and organization.

Biblical References

The primary biblical reference to the officers of providers for the king's table is found in 1 Kings 4:7-19. This passage details the administrative structure established by King Solomon, highlighting the efficiency and grandeur of his reign. According to the Berean Standard Bible, "Solomon had twelve governors over all Israel, who provided food for the king and his household. Each one made provision for one month of the year" (1 Kings 4:7). These governors were responsible for specific regions, ensuring a steady and organized supply chain to the royal court.

Duties and Responsibilities

The officers, often referred to as governors or district officials, were responsible for collecting and managing resources from their respective territories. Their duties included gathering agricultural produce, livestock, and other necessary goods to sustain the king's household. This system not only supported the daily needs of the royal family but also facilitated the hosting of foreign dignitaries and large gatherings, which were common in Solomon's court.

The meticulous organization of these provisions is further illustrated in 1 Kings 4:22-23, which describes the daily requirements for Solomon's table: "Solomon’s provisions for a single day were thirty cors of fine flour, sixty cors of meal, ten fat oxen, twenty pasture-fed cattle, a hundred sheep, and goats, besides deer, gazelles, roebucks, and fattened poultry" . This abundance underscores the prosperity of Solomon's reign and the effectiveness of his administrative system.

Historical and Cultural Context

The role of these officers reflects the broader Near Eastern practice of centralized royal administration. Similar systems were present in other ancient kingdoms, where the king's table symbolized the wealth and stability of the nation. The officers' ability to provide for the king's table was a testament to the kingdom's agricultural productivity and the efficiency of its governance.

In the context of Israel, the provision for the king's table also had theological implications. It demonstrated God's blessing upon the nation, as promised in the covenant, and the fulfillment of the divine mandate for Israel to be a prosperous and influential kingdom. The abundance at the king's table was seen as a reflection of God's favor and the wisdom bestowed upon Solomon.

Significance in the Monarchy

The officers of providers for the king's table played a crucial role in maintaining the daily operations of the royal household. Their work ensured that the king could focus on governance, diplomacy, and the administration of justice without concern for the logistical needs of his court. This system of provision was integral to the stability and success of Solomon's reign, allowing him to pursue grand projects, such as the construction of the Temple, and to establish Israel as a powerful and respected nation in the ancient world.

The biblical account of these officers serves as a reminder of the importance of organization, stewardship, and the wise management of resources in fulfilling God's purposes for leadership and governance.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 4:7-19
And Solomon had twelve officers over all Israel, which provided victuals for the king and his household: each man his month in a year made provision.
Torrey's Topical Textbook