King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 4:17 Mean?

1 Kings 4:17 in the King James Version says “Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar:” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar:”

1 Kings 4:17 · King James Version

Context

15

Ahimaaz was in Naphtali; he also took Basmath the daughter of Solomon to wife:

16

Baanah the son of Hushai was in Asher and in Aloth:

17

Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar:

18

Shimei the son of Elah, in Benjamin:

19

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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Commentaries4 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar:

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 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

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 does the temple as God's dwelling place help us understand Christ's incarnation and the church as God's temple today?
  2. What does Solomon's prayer and dedication teach about approaching God in worship and prayer?
  3. How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?

Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
יְהֽוֹשָׁפָ֥ט1 of 4

“Jehoshaphat”

H3092

jehoshaphat, the name of six israelites; also of a valley near jerusalem

בֶּן2 of 4

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

פָּר֖וּחַ3 of 4

“of Paruah”

H6515

paruach, an israelite

בְּיִשָׂשכָֽר׃4 of 4

“in Issachar”

H3485

jissaskar, a son of jacob

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 4:17 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 4:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Joshua 19:17-23

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