King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 5:2 Mean?

1 Kings 5:2 in the King James Version says “And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying,” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying,”

1 Kings 5:2 · KJV

Context

1

And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon; for he had heard that they had anointed him king in the room of his father: for Hiram was ever a lover of David.

2

And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying,

3

Thou knowest how that David my father could not build an house unto the name of the LORD his God for the wars which were about him on every side, until the LORD put them under the soles of his feet.

4

But now the LORD my God hath given me rest on every side, so that there is neither adversary nor evil occurrent.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying,

This verse contributes to the broader narrative of preparations for building the temple, 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 · 5 words
וַיִּשְׁלַ֣ח1 of 5

“sent”

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

שְׁלֹמֹ֔ה2 of 5

“And Solomon”

H8010

shelomah, david's successor

אֶל3 of 5
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

חִירָ֖ם4 of 5

“to Hiram”

H2438

chiram or chirom, the name of two tyrians

לֵאמֹֽר׃5 of 5

“saying”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

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 5:2 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 5:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Chronicles 2:3

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