King James Version
1 Kings 4
34 verses with commentary
Solomon's Officials
So king Solomon was king over all Israel.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>So king Solomon was king over all Israel.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and f...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(1) **King over all Israel.**—The emphasis laid upon “all” is characteristic of the writer, who compiled the book after the disruption of the kingdom.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**31-40. Barzillai the Gileadite--**The rank, great age, and chivalrous devotion of this Gileadite chief wins our respect. His declining to go to court, his recommendation of his son, his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with the king, are interesting incidents. What mark of royal favor was bestowed on Chimham has not been recorded; but it is probable that David gave a great part of...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →And these were the princes which he had; Azariah the son of Zadok the priest, priest: or, chief officer
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And these were the princes which he had; Azariah the son of Zadok the priest,</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological mes...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(2) **And these were.**—The officers described are of two classes—those attached to Solomon’s Court, and those invested with local authority.
**The princes **are evidently Solomon’s high counsellors and officers, “eating at the king’s table.” The word is derived from a root which means to “set in order.” It is significant that whereas in the lists of David’s officers in 2Samuel 8:16-18; 2Samuel 20...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**31-40. Barzillai the Gileadite--**The rank, great age, and chivalrous devotion of this Gileadite chief wins our respect. His declining to go to court, his recommendation of his son, his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with the king, are interesting incidents. What mark of royal favor was bestowed on Chimham has not been recorded; but it is probable that David gave a great part of...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder. scribes: or, secretaries recorder: or, remembrancer
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(3) **Sons of Shisha.**—In 1Chronicles 18:16 “Shavsha,” and in 2Samuel 20:25 “Sheva,” is mentioned as the scribe of David. Probably these are variations of the same name, and the office may have become virtually hereditary. The “scribe,” or (see Margin) “secretary,” is constantly referred to as a high officer, issuing the king’s edicts and letters, and acting in his name, like our “Secretaries of ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**31-40. Barzillai the Gileadite--**The rank, great age, and chivalrous devotion of this Gileadite chief wins our respect. His declining to go to court, his recommendation of his son, his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with the king, are interesting incidents. What mark of royal favor was bestowed on Chimham has not been recorded; but it is probable that David gave a great part of...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the host: and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the host: and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' t...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(4) **Zadok and Abiathar **. . . **the priests.**—Abiathar, though disgraced and practically deposed, was still regarded theoretically as priest (much as Annas is called “high priest” in the Gospels), for the priesthood was properly for life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**31-40. Barzillai the Gileadite--**The rank, great age, and chivalrous devotion of this Gileadite chief wins our respect. His declining to go to court, his recommendation of his son, his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with the king, are interesting incidents. What mark of royal favor was bestowed on Chimham has not been recorded; but it is probable that David gave a great part of...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →And Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers: and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer, and the king's friend:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers: and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer, and the king's friend:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this p...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(5) **Son of Nathan.**—Probably Nathan, son of David, and own brother of Solomon (1Chronicles 3:5), is here intended; for the title *Cohen, *here given to Zabud, is expressly ascribed in 2Samuel 8:18 to the “sons of David;” and Nathan the prophet always has his title, “the prophet,” appended to his name wherever first mentioned in this book. (See 1Kings 1:8; 1Kings 1:10; 1Kings 1:22; 1Kings 1:32, ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**31-40. Barzillai the Gileadite--**The rank, great age, and chivalrous devotion of this Gileadite chief wins our respect. His declining to go to court, his recommendation of his son, his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with the king, are interesting incidents. What mark of royal favor was bestowed on Chimham has not been recorded; but it is probable that David gave a great part of...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →And Ahishar was over the household: and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the tribute. tribute: or, levy
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Ahishar was over the household: and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the tribute.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. The temple represents God's dwelling among His people and foreshadows Christ as Immanuel ('God with us'). <br><br>...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(6) **Over the household,**—like the “High Steward” of a modern Court. In 2Kings 18:18 we have the same three officers mentioned (“Eliakim, who was over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the recorder”).
**Adoniram . . . over the tribute **(or “levy”),—evidently the head of Solomon’s great public works. (See 1Kings 5:14.) The name is elsewhere given as *Adoram. *It is ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**31-40. Barzillai the Gileadite--**The rank, great age, and chivalrous devotion of this Gileadite chief wins our respect. His declining to go to court, his recommendation of his son, his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with the king, are interesting incidents. What mark of royal favor was bestowed on Chimham has not been recorded; but it is probable that David gave a great part of...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →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.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>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.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. The temple represents God's dwelling among His peop...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(7) **Provided victuals for the king and his household.**—This denotes the collection of revenue—mostly, no doubt, in kind—for the maintenance of the Court and household and guards of the king; and perhaps may have included also the management of the royal domain lands, such as is described under David’s reign in 1Chronicles 26:25-31. It is curious that in five cases only the patronymic of the off...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**31-40. Barzillai the Gileadite--**The rank, great age, and chivalrous devotion of this Gileadite chief wins our respect. His declining to go to court, his recommendation of his son, his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with the king, are interesting incidents. What mark of royal favor was bestowed on Chimham has not been recorded; but it is probable that David gave a great part of...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →And these are their names: The son of Hur, in mount Ephraim: The son: or, Benhur
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And these are their names: The son of Hur, in mount Ephraim:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingsh...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(8) **And these are their names.**—The first division, *“*mount Ephraim,” included all the higher part of the territory of Ephraim, one of the most fertile and beautiful regions in Palestine, surrounding the city of Shechem, which lies in a rich plain between Mount Ebel and Gerizim, and including the strong site of the future Samaria. See the description of the country in the blessing of Moses (De...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**31-40. Barzillai the Gileadite--**The rank, great age, and chivalrous devotion of this Gileadite chief wins our respect. His declining to go to court, his recommendation of his son, his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with the king, are interesting incidents. What mark of royal favor was bestowed on Chimham has not been recorded; but it is probable that David gave a great part of...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →The son of Dekar , in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Bethshemesh, and Elonbethhanan: The son: or, Ben Dekar
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The son of Dekar, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Beth-shemesh, and Elon-beth-hanan:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theologic...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(9) The second division included the territory in the maritime plain to the north-west of Judah; assigned to Dan, but in all the earlier history held, with perhaps a few exceptions, by the Philistines. The cities Shaalbim, Elon, and Beth-shemesh, or Ir-shemesh, are noted in Joshua 19:41-43. Makaz is not mentioned elsewhere. There is here the addition to the name *Elon *of *beth-hanan *(“the house ...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →The son of Hesed , in Aruboth; to him pertained Sochoh, and all the land of Hepher: The son: or, Ben Heseb
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The son of Hesed, in Aruboth; to him pertained Sochoh, and all the land of Hepher:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theologica...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(10) The third division was also in the land of the Philistines, being part of the territory assigned to Judah. Sochoh is mentioned in Joshua 15:35, and is noticed in 1Samuel 17:1-3 as close to the field of battle on which David slew Goliath. Hepher is an old Amorite city which was conquered by Joshua (Joshua 12:17), still, by a curious survival, giving its name to the whole district, to which the...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 20
2Sa 20:1-9. Sheba Makes a Party in Israel.
**1. Sheba ... a Benjamite--**Though nothing is known of this man, he must have been a person of considerable power and influence, before he could have raised so sudden and extensive a sedition. He belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, where the adherents of Saul's dynasty were still numerous; and perceiving the strong disgust of the other tri...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →The son of Abinadab, in all the region of Dor; which had Taphath the daughter of Solomon to wife: The son: or, Bena Binadab
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The son of Abinadab, in all the region of Dor; which had Taphath the daughter of Solomon to wife:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Ki...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(11) The fourth division, “all the region of Dor,” still lies along the coast, but to the north of the preceding districts, close under Mount Carmel, in the territory assigned to Manasseh. Dor is named in Joshua 11:2, as forming a part of the confederacy of the north under Jabin, and as subsequently conquered (1Kings 12:23), and given to Manasseh (1Kings 17:11).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**2. from Jordan even to Jerusalem--**The quarrel had broken out shortly after the crossing of the Jordan, between Judah and the other tribes, who withdrew; so that Judah was left nearly alone to conduct the king to the metropolis.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Baana the son of Ahilud; to him pertained Taanach and Megiddo, and all Bethshean, which is by Zartanah beneath Jezreel, from Bethshean to Abelmeholah, even unto the place that is beyond Jokneam:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Baana the son of Ahilud; to him pertained Taanach and Megiddo, and all Beth-shean, which is by Zartanah beneath Jezreel, from Beth-shean to Abel-meholah, even unto the place that is beyond Jokneam:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(12) The fifth division must have been large and important, including much of the great plain of Esdraelon or Jezreel, the garden and battle-field of Northern Palestine, and extending to the Jordan valley. Taanach, Megiddo, and Beth-shean are all named as Canaanitish cities not taken by Manasseh, but made tributary (Joshua 17:11; Judges 1:27). Taanach and Megiddo are referred to in the song of Deb...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**3. the king took the ten women his concubines--**Jewish writers say that the widowed queens of Hebrew monarchs were not allowed to marry again but were obliged to pass the rest of their lives in strict seclusion. David treated his concubines in the same manner after the outrage committed on them by Absalom. They were not divorced, for they were guiltless; but they were no longer publicly recogni...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →The son of Geber, in Ramothgilead ; to him pertained the towns of Jair the son of Manasseh, which are in Gilead; to him also pertained the region of Argob, which is in Bashan, threescore great cities with walls and brasen bars: The son: or, Ben Geber
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The son of Geber, in Ramoth-gilead; to him pertained the towns of Jair the son of Manasseh, which are in Gilead; to him also pertained the region of Argob, which is in Bashan, threescore great cities with walls and brasen bars:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple buil...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(13) The sixth division, large, but probably less fertile, crosses the Jordan, and includes a great portion of the territory of Manasseh and Gad. The region of Argob, “the rocky region” (afterwards translated into the Greek name *Trachonitis*), is noticed in Deuteronomy 3:4; Deuteronomy 3:13-14, as the land of Og, covered with great cities, taken by Jair, son of Manasseh, and called *Havoth-Jair—“...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**4. Then said the king to Amasa, Assemble me the men of Judah within three days--**Amasa is now installed in the command which David had promised him. The revolt of the ten tribes, probably, hastened the public declaration of this appointment, which he hoped would be popular with them, and Amasa was ordered within three days to levy a force from Judah sufficient to put down the insurrection. The ...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Ahinadab the son of Iddo had Mahanaim: Mahanaim: or, to Mahanaim
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Ahinadab the son of Iddo had Mahanaim:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and fait...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(14) The seventh division, still on the other side of Jordan, is the region of Mahanaim, in the territory of Gad. Mahanaim (“the camps”), the scene of Jacob’s angelic vision on his return to Canaan (Genesis 36:3), assigned to Dan after the Conquest (see Joshua 13:26; Joshua 13:30; Joshua 21:38), must have been afterwards an important place; for it was the seat of Ishbosheth’s government (2Samuel 2...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Ahimaaz was in Naphtali; he also took Basmath the daughter of Solomon to wife:
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Ahimaaz was in Naphtali; he also took Basmath the daughter of Solomon to wife:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological me...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(15) The eighth division is the upper valley of the Jordan, south of Mount Hermon, including part of the north-west coast of the sea of Gennesareth and the water of Merom. In it lie Hazor, forming the centre of the native confederacy of the north, and the Levitical city of refuge, Kedesh-Naphtali (Joshua 12:22; Joshua 19:37; Judges 4:6).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Baanah the son of Hushai was in Asher and in Aloth:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Baanah the son of Hushai was in Asher and in Aloth:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, coven...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(16) The ninth division, “in Asher and Aloth,” bordered on the Tyrian territory, stretching north from Mount Carmel, first along the coast, and then behind the ranges of Lebanon. In Judges 1:31-32, we read that the tribe of Asher did not occupy the territory assigned them (Joshua 19:24-30), but mingled with the native inhabitants. Aloth (or in the Greek Version *Baloth*) is unknown, and Josephus p...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(17) The tenth division, the territory of Issachar, lying north of Manasseh, included part of the great plain of Esdraelon, and must have been so closely connected with the fifth division that the frontiers could hardly be discerned.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**8. Amasa went before them--**Having collected some forces, he by a rapid march overtook the expedition at Gibeon, and assumed the place of commander; in which capacity, he was saluted, among others, by Joab.
**Joab's garment, that he had put on was girded unto him--**in the fashion of travellers and soldiers.
**a sword ... and as he went forth it fell out--**that is, out of the scabbard. Acc...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Shimei the son of Elah, in Benjamin:
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Shimei the son of Elah, in Benjamin:</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithf...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(18) The eleventh division, the territory of Benjamin (properly including Jerusalem itself), though small, is singularly strong and populous, including Jericho, Bethel, Gibeon, Ramah, extending from Judah to Ephraim, and commanding the centre of the high land of what was afterwards the kingdom of Judah.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**9. took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him--**This act, common with two friends on meeting when one of them returns from a journey, indicates respect as well as kindliness, and the performance of it evinced the deep hypocrisy of Joab, who thereby put Amasa off his guard. No wonder, then, that while this act of friendly gratulation after long absence occupied Amasa's attention, he...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Geber the son of Uri was in the country of Gilead, in the country of Sihon king of the Amorites, and of Og king of Bashan; and he was the only officer which was in the land.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Geber the son of Uri was in the country of Gilead, in the country of Sihon king of the Amorites, and of Og king of Bashan; and he was the only officer which was in the land.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text rev...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(19) The twelfth division was on the east of Jordan, south of the seventh, including the pastoral country of Reuben and part of Gad on the borders of Moab, probably occupied by the royal flocks and herds.
In place of the reading of the text, “and *he was *the only officer in the land”—which yields very little meaning, for in each of the divisions there was but one governor—the LXX. here reads, “an...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10. smote him ... in the fifth rib--**the seat of the liver and bowels, where wounds are mortal.
**struck him not again--**that is, despatched him at the first blow.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Solomon's court.(1-19)
Solomon's dominions, His daily provision.(20-28)
The wisdom of Solomon.(29-34)
**Verses 1-19**
In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though e...
Read full commentary →Solomon's Prosperity and Wisdom
Judah and Israel were many, as the sand which is by the sea in multitude, eating and drinking, and making merry.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Judah and Israel were many, as the sand which is by the sea in multitude, eating and drinking, and making merry.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contr...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(20) **Were many.**—The description of the condition of the people here and in 1Kings 4:25, as multiplied in numbers, and living in festivity and peace, is evidently designed to specify not only their general prosperity and wealth, but also the fact noticed in 1Kings 9:20-22, that at this time they were a dominant race, relieved from all burden of labour, and ruling over the subject races, now red...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**11-13. He that favoureth Joab, and he that is for David, let him go after Joab--**It is a striking proof of Joab's unrivalled influence over the army, that with this villainous murder perpetrated before their eyes they unanimously followed him as their leader in pursuit of Sheba. A soldier conjoined his name with David's, and such a magic spell was in the word "Joab," that all the people "went o...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →And Solomon reigned over all kingdoms from the river unto the land of the Philistines, and unto the border of Egypt: they brought presents, and served Solomon all the days of his life.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Solomon reigned over all kingdoms from the river unto the land of the Philistines, and unto the border of Egypt: they brought presents, and served Solomon all the days of his life.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebr...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(21) **And Solomon reigned.**—His dominion is described as extending on the south to the land of the Philistines and the border of Egypt, including what we call Arabia (see Psalm 72:10, and comp. 1Kings 10:15); on the east to “the river” Euphrates, as far north as Tiphsah (the Greek Thapsacus); on the west it would, of course, be bounded by the sea; and on the north it extended far beyond Damascus...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**11-13. He that favoureth Joab, and he that is for David, let him go after Joab--**It is a striking proof of Joab's unrivalled influence over the army, that with this villainous murder perpetrated before their eyes they unanimously followed him as their leader in pursuit of Sheba. A soldier conjoined his name with David's, and such a magic spell was in the word "Joab," that all the people "went o...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →And Solomon's provision for one day was thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal, provision: Heb. bread measures: Heb. cors
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Solomon's provision for one day was thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal,</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution t...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(22) **Measures.**—The “measure” (*cor*) is variously estimated (from 86 to 42 gallons). In any case the quantity is very large, and, like the other notices of provisions supplied, indicates a vast number, probably several thousands, belonging to the royal household, court, and body-guard. The “harts, roebucks, &c.,” whatever the exact meaning of each word may be, evidently denote the wild game, a...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**11-13. He that favoureth Joab, and he that is for David, let him go after Joab--**It is a striking proof of Joab's unrivalled influence over the army, that with this villainous murder perpetrated before their eyes they unanimously followed him as their leader in pursuit of Sheba. A soldier conjoined his name with David's, and such a magic spell was in the word "Joab," that all the people "went o...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →Ten fat oxen, and twenty oxen out of the pastures, and an hundred sheep, beside harts, and roebucks, and fallowdeer, and fatted fowl.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Ten fat oxen, and twenty oxen out of the pastures, and an hundred sheep, beside harts, and roebucks, and fallowdeer, and fatted fowl.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(23) **On this side the river.**—This translation, although it expresses the true reference, viz., to the country west of the Euphrates, is literally incorrect. The words mean, “on the further side of the river,” considered from the point of view of Babylon (see the use in the later books, or in Ezra 4:6; Ezra 6:6, &c.); and accordingly indicate composition at the time of the Exile, or, at any rat...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**14. he went through all the tribes of Israel unto Abel--**beating up for recruits. But there the prompt marches of Joab overtook and hemmed him in by a close siege of the place.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →For he had dominion over all the region on this side the river, from Tiphsah even to Azzah, over all the kings on this side the river: and he had peace on all sides round about him.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>For he had dominion over all the region on this side the river, from Tiphsah even to Azzah, over all the kings on this side the river: and he had peace on all sides round about him.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(24) **Azzah **is the well-known Philistine city, Gaza.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**15. Abel of Beth-maachah--**a verdant place--the addition of "Maachah" betokening that it belonged to the district Maachah, which lay far up the Jordan at the foot of Lebanon.
2Sa 20:16-22. A Wise Woman Saves the City by Sheba's Head.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →And Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, from Dan even to Beersheba, all the days of Solomon. safely: Heb. confidently
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, from Dan even to Beer-sheba, all the days of Solomon.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understan...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16. Then cried a wise woman--**The appeal of this woman, who, like Deborah, was probably a judge or governess of the place, was a strong one.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →And Solomon had forty thousand stalls of horses for his chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Solomon had forty thousand stalls of horses for his chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 King...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(26) **Forty thousand.**—By comparison with the parallel passage in 2Chronicles 9:25, and with the notice in 1Kings 10:26 (one thousand four hundred), it seems clear that for “forty thousand” “four thousand” should be read. They were kept in various “chariot cities,” as well as at Jerusalem. This multiplication of horses and horsemen—forbidden to the future king in Deuteronomy 17:16, but foretold ...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →And those officers provided victual for king Solomon, and for all that came unto king Solomon's table, every man in his month: they lacked nothing.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And those officers provided victual for king Solomon, and for all that came unto king Solomon's table, every man in his month: they lacked nothing.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-20. They were wont to speak in old time--**The translation of the Margin gives a better meaning, which is to this effect: When the people saw thee lay siege to Abel, they said, Surely he will ask if we will have peace, for the law (De 20:10) prescribes that he should offer peace to strangers, much more then to Israelitish cities; and if he do this, we shall soon bring things to an amicable ag...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →Barley also and straw for the horses and dromedaries brought they unto the place where the officers were, every man according to his charge. dromedaries: or, mules, or, swift beasts
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Barley also and straw for the horses and dromedaries brought they unto the place where the officers were, every man according to his charge.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for unders...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(28) **Dromedaries**—properly (see Margin), *swift beasts; *probably the horses of the royal messengers, as distinguished from the war horses.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-20. They were wont to speak in old time--**The translation of the Margin gives a better meaning, which is to this effect: When the people saw thee lay siege to Abel, they said, Surely he will ask if we will have peace, for the law (De 20:10) prescribes that he should offer peace to strangers, much more then to Israelitish cities; and if he do this, we shall soon bring things to an amicable ag...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Never did the crown of Israel shine so bright, as when Solomon wore it. He had peace on all sides. Herein, his kingdom was a type of the Messiah's; for to Him it is promised that he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, and that princes shall worship him. The spiritual peace, and joy, and holy security, of all the faithful subjects of the Lord Jesus, were typified by tha...
Read full commentary →And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. Solomon's God-given wisdom points to Christ, 'in whom are hidden all the...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(29) **Wisdom and understanding . . . and largeness of heart.**—In this passage, “understanding,” which is high intellectual power, and “largeness of heart,” which is clearly capacity of knowledge, boundless as “the sand on the sea-shore,” are both distinguished from the higher gift of wisdom, to which they are but means—the one being the capacity of wisdom within, the other the education of that ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-20. They were wont to speak in old time--**The translation of the Margin gives a better meaning, which is to this effect: When the people saw thee lay siege to Abel, they said, Surely he will ask if we will have peace, for the law (De 20:10) prescribes that he should offer peace to strangers, much more then to Israelitish cities; and if he do this, we shall soon bring things to an amicable ag...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-34**
Solomon's wisdom was more his glory than his wealth. He had what is here called largeness of heart, for the heart is often put for the powers of the mind. He had the gift of utterance, as well as wisdom. It is very desirable, that those who have large gifts of any kind, should have large hearts to use them for the good of others. What treasures of wisdom and knowledge are lost...
Read full commentary →And Solomon's wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country, and all the wisdom of Egypt.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Solomon's wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country, and all the wisdom of Egypt.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. Solomon's God-given wisdom points to Christ, 'in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisd...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(30-34) The whole passage implies a general growth of wisdom, a largeness of knowledge, and an outburst of literature, of which, as usual with great men, Solomon is at once the child and the leader.
(30) **The wisdom of all the children of the east.**—The phrase “children of the east” is apparently used (see Genesis 29:1; Judges 6:3; Judges 6:33; Judges 7:12; Judges 8:10) for the tribes of the cou...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-34**
Solomon's wisdom was more his glory than his wealth. He had what is here called largeness of heart, for the heart is often put for the powers of the mind. He had the gift of utterance, as well as wisdom. It is very desirable, that those who have large gifts of any kind, should have large hearts to use them for the good of others. What treasures of wisdom and knowledge are lost...
Read full commentary →For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Chalcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all nations round about.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Chalcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all nations round about.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances import...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(31) **He** **was wiser.**—The wisdom of “Heman, Ethan, Chalcol, and Darda,” then rivals of Solomon’s fame, is now only known to us from this passage. In the genealogy of 1Chronicles 2:6, “Ethan, Heman, Chalcol, and Dara” (or “Darda”) are found as sons of Zerah, the son of Judah; and the coincidence is remarkable enough to suggest identification. But this identification can scarcely hold. This pas...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-34**
Solomon's wisdom was more his glory than his wealth. He had what is here called largeness of heart, for the heart is often put for the powers of the mind. He had the gift of utterance, as well as wisdom. It is very desirable, that those who have large gifts of any kind, should have large hearts to use them for the good of others. What treasures of wisdom and knowledge are lost...
Read full commentary →And he spake three thousand proverbs: and his songs were a thousand and five.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And he spake three thousand proverbs: and his songs were a thousand and five.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological mes...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(32) **Proverbs.**—The word “proverb” (*mashal*)*, *from a root signifying “comparison,” has the various meanings of (*a*) parable or allegory, (*b*) proverb in the modern sense, (*c*) riddle or enigmatical poem, (*d*) figurative and antithetical poetry, like the “parable” of Balaam. The Book of Proverbs belongs mainly, but not exclusively, to the second class. Its main part consists of two series...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**23. Now Joab was over all the host of Israel--**David, whatever his private wishes, found that he possessed not the power of removing Joab; so winking at the murder of Amasa, he re-established that officer in his former post of commander-in-chief. The enumeration of David's cabinet is here given to show that the government was re-established in its wonted course.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-34**
Solomon's wisdom was more his glory than his wealth. He had what is here called largeness of heart, for the heart is often put for the powers of the mind. He had the gift of utterance, as well as wisdom. It is very desirable, that those who have large gifts of any kind, should have large hearts to use them for the good of others. What treasures of wisdom and knowledge are lost...
Read full commentary →And he spake of trees, from the cedar tree that is in Lebanon even unto the hyssop that springeth out of the wall: he spake also of beasts, and of fowl, and of creeping things, and of fishes.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And he spake of trees, from the cedar tree that is in Lebanon even unto the hyssop that springeth out of the wall: he spake also of beasts, and of fowl, and of creeping things, and of fishes.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. <br><br>T...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(33) **He spake of trees.**—Of this verse there have been many interpretations. Josephus (*Ant. viii. *c.*2*, § 5) supposes Solomon’s utterances on these natural products to have been allegorical and symbolic, although he declares that he described them and their properties “like a philosopher.” Rabbinical and Oriental legends, eagerly accepted in mediaeval times, ascribed to him mystic knowledge ...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-34**
Solomon's wisdom was more his glory than his wealth. He had what is here called largeness of heart, for the heart is often put for the powers of the mind. He had the gift of utterance, as well as wisdom. It is very desirable, that those who have large gifts of any kind, should have large hearts to use them for the good of others. What treasures of wisdom and knowledge are lost...
Read full commentary →And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom.
View commentary (2 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom.</strong><br><br>This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's administration and prosperity, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy. Solomon's God-given wisdom points to Christ, 'in whom are hidden all the treasure...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-34**
Solomon's wisdom was more his glory than his wealth. He had what is here called largeness of heart, for the heart is often put for the powers of the mind. He had the gift of utterance, as well as wisdom. It is very desirable, that those who have large gifts of any kind, should have large hearts to use them for the good of others. What treasures of wisdom and knowledge are lost...
Read full commentary →