King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 4:18 Mean?

1 Kings 4:18 in the King James Version says “Shimei the son of Elah, in Benjamin:” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Shimei the son of Elah, in Benjamin:”

1 Kings 4:18 · KJV

Context

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.

20

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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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Shimei the son of Elah, in Benjamin:

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.

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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 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?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
שִׁמְעִ֥י1 of 4

“Shimei”

H8096

shimi, the name of twenty israelites

בֶן2 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

אֵלָ֖א3 of 4

“of Elah”

H414

ela, an israelite

בְּבִנְיָמִֽן׃4 of 4

“in Benjamin”

H1144

binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

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 4:18 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 4:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Kings 1:8Joshua 18:20-28Zechariah 12:13

Test Your Knowledge

1 Kings 4 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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