King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 11:41 Mean?

1 Kings 11:41 in the King James Version says “And the rest of the acts of Solomon, and all that he did, and his wisdom, are they not written in the book of the acts o...” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the rest of the acts of Solomon, and all that he did, and his wisdom, are they not written in the book of the acts of Solomon? acts: or, words, or, things”

1 Kings 11:41 · KJV

Wisdom

Context

39

And I will for this afflict the seed of David, but not for ever.

40

Solomon sought therefore to kill Jeroboam. And Jeroboam arose, and fled into Egypt, unto Shishak king of Egypt, and was in Egypt until the death of Solomon.

41

And the rest of the acts of Solomon, and all that he did, and his wisdom, are they not written in the book of the acts of Solomon? acts: or, words, or, things

42

And the time that Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel was forty years. time: Heb. days

43

And Solomon slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David his father: and Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead. Rehoboam: Gr. Roboam

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the rest of the acts of Solomon, and all that he did, and his wisdom, are they not written in the book of the acts of Solomon?

This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's apostasy and death, 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 wisdom and knowledge' (Colossians 2:3).

The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.

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Historical & Cultural Context

First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE) represented Israel's golden age of peace and prosperity.

Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.

Reflection Questions

  1. How did Solomon's disobedience to God's clear commands lead to his downfall, and what warnings does this provide?
  2. What role do relationships and alliances play in either strengthening or compromising our faith?
  3. How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 14 words
וְיֶ֨תֶר1 of 14

“And the rest”

H3499

properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)

דִּבְרֵ֥י2 of 14

“of the acts”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

שְׁלֹמֹֽה׃3 of 14

“of Solomon”

H8010

shelomah, david's successor

וְכָל4 of 14
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אֲשֶׁ֥ר5 of 14
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

עָשָׂ֖ה6 of 14

“and all that he did”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

וְחָכְמָת֑וֹ7 of 14

“and his wisdom”

H2451

wisdom (in a good sense)

הֲלוֹא8 of 14
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הֵ֣ם9 of 14
H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

כְּתֻבִ֔ים10 of 14

“are they not written”

H3789

to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)

עַל11 of 14
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

סֵ֖פֶר12 of 14

“in the book”

H5612

properly, writing (the art or a document); by implication, a book

דִּבְרֵ֥י13 of 14

“of the acts”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

שְׁלֹמֹֽה׃14 of 14

“of Solomon”

H8010

shelomah, david's successor

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Kings 11:41 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Kings 11:41 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Chronicles 9:29-31

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