King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 11:8 Mean?

1 Kings 11:8 in the King James Version says “And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.”

1 Kings 11:8 · KJV

Context

6

And Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD, and went not fully after the LORD, as did David his father. went: Heb. fulfilled not after

7

Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon.

8

And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.

9

And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the LORD God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice,

10

And had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods: but he kept not that which the LORD commanded.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.

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. The sacrificial system points forward to Christ's ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling all temple offerings (Hebrews 10:1-18).

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 · 8 words
וְכֵ֣ן1 of 8
H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

עָשָׂ֔ה2 of 8

“And likewise did”

H6213

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

לְכָל3 of 8
H3605

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

נָשָׁ֖יו4 of 8

“wives”

H802

a woman

הַנָּכְרִיּ֑וֹת5 of 8

“he for all his strange”

H5237

strange, in a variety of degrees and applications (foreign, non-relative, adulterous, different, wonderful)

מַקְטִיר֥וֹת6 of 8

“which burnt incense”

H6999

to smoke, i.e., turn into fragrance by fire (especially as an act of worship)

וּֽמְזַבְּח֖וֹת7 of 8

“and sacrificed”

H2076

to slaughter an animal (usually in sacrifice)

לֵאלֹֽהֵיהֶֽן׃8 of 8

“unto their gods”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

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 11:8 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 11:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ezekiel 16:22-291 Corinthians 10:20-221 Corinthians 10:11-121 Kings 11:1Hosea 4:11-12

Test Your Knowledge

1 Kings 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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