King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 4:8 Mean?

1 Kings 4:8 in the King James Version says “And these are their names: The son of Hur, in mount Ephraim: The son: or, Benhur” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And these are their names: The son of Hur, in mount Ephraim: The son: or, Benhur”

1 Kings 4:8 · KJV

Context

6

And Ahishar was over the household: and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the tribute. tribute: or, levy

7

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.

8

And these are their names: The son of Hur, in mount Ephraim: The son: or, Benhur

9

The son of Dekar , in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Bethshemesh, and Elonbethhanan: The son: or, Ben Dekar

10

The son of Hesed , in Aruboth; to him pertained Sochoh, and all the land of Hepher: The son: or, Ben Heseb

Read 1 Kings 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And these are their names: The son of Hur, in mount Ephraim:

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?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וְאֵ֣לֶּה1 of 6
H428

these or those

שְׁמוֹתָ֔ם2 of 6

“And these are their ~s”

H8034

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

בֶּן3 of 6
H0
ח֖וּר4 of 6

“The son of Hur”

H1133

ben-chur, an israelite

בְּהַ֥ר5 of 6

“in mount”

H2022

a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)

אֶפְרָֽיִם׃6 of 6

“Ephraim”

H669

ephrajim, a son of joseph; 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 4:8 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 4:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Joshua 24:33Judges 19:1Judges 17:1

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

Read 1 Kings 4 with CommentaryAll 1 Kings ChaptersComplete 1 Kings QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes