And Solomon relayed this message to Hiram:Solomon: Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, Solomon's reign marked a period of peace and prosperity for Israel. His leadership is often seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to David that his son would build a temple for the Lord (
2 Samuel 7:12-13). Solomon's wisdom is highlighted in
1 Kings 3:12, where God grants him unparalleled understanding.
Relayed: The act of relaying a message indicates a formal communication, often involving diplomacy and careful negotiation. In the ancient Near East, such communications were crucial for maintaining alliances and trade relationships. Solomon's ability to communicate effectively with other rulers was a testament to his wisdom and political acumen.
This message: The content of the message is significant, as it pertains to Solomon's plans to build the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites. This construction project was not only a religious undertaking but also a political one, symbolizing the unification and strength of the Israelite kingdom under Solomon's rule.
To Hiram: Hiram was the king of Tyre, a Phoenician city-state known for its skilled craftsmen and abundant resources, particularly cedar wood from Lebanon. The relationship between Solomon and Hiram was mutually beneficial, as Hiram provided materials and labor for the temple, while Solomon offered agricultural products in return (
1 Kings 5:10-11). This alliance reflects the interconnectedness of ancient Near Eastern societies and the importance of trade and cooperation. Hiram's assistance in building the temple can be seen as a type of Christ, as it foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan, as seen in the New Testament (
Ephesians 2:11-22).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
SolomonThe son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is the king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.
2.
HiramThe king of Tyre, a city-state in modern-day Lebanon. Hiram was a friend and ally of both David and Solomon, providing materials and skilled labor for the building of the Temple.
3.
TyreAn ancient Phoenician city known for its wealth and skilled craftsmen. It played a significant role in the trade and politics of the region during Solomon's reign.
4.
The TempleThe primary focus of Solomon's building efforts, the Temple in Jerusalem was a central place of worship for the Israelites and a symbol of God's presence among His people.
5.
The AllianceThe cooperative relationship between Solomon and Hiram, which facilitated the construction of the Temple through the exchange of resources and labor.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Godly AlliancesSolomon's alliance with Hiram demonstrates the value of forming partnerships that align with God's purposes. Believers should seek relationships that support and enhance their spiritual goals.
Wisdom in LeadershipSolomon's decision to reach out to Hiram reflects his wisdom in leadership. Effective leaders recognize the need for collaboration and resourcefulness in achieving their objectives.
Preparation for WorshipThe construction of the Temple was a significant step in preparing a place for worship. Believers should prioritize creating environments conducive to worship and spiritual growth.
Faithfulness to God's PromisesSolomon's actions were in fulfillment of God's promise to David regarding the building of the Temple. Trusting in God's promises encourages believers to act in faith and obedience.
The Role of Community in God's WorkThe collaboration between Israel and Tyre illustrates the importance of community and cooperation in accomplishing God's work. Believers are called to work together for the common good.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of 1 Kings 5:2?
2.How does 1 Kings 5:2 demonstrate Solomon's wisdom in building the temple?
3.What can we learn from Solomon's communication with Hiram in 1 Kings 5:2?
4.How does Solomon's request reflect God's promise to David in 2 Samuel 7?
5.How can we apply Solomon's example of collaboration in our church community today?
6.What role does preparation play in fulfilling God's plans, as seen in 1 Kings 5:2?
7.What is the significance of Solomon's message to Hiram in 1 Kings 5:2?
8.How does 1 Kings 5:2 reflect Solomon's wisdom and leadership?
9.Why did Solomon choose Hiram for assistance in 1 Kings 5:2?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Kings 5?
11.Who was Tyre's king?
12.How can we verify Hiram’s historicity and alliance with Solomon mentioned in 1 Kings 5:1–12, given limited external records?
13.Solomon built a facility containing how many baths? Two thousand (1 Kings 7:26) Over three thousand (2 Chronicles 4:5)
14.In 2 Chronicles 2:11-12, why does Tyrian King Hiram express devotion to Israel's God when no independent Tyrian records verify such reverence?What Does 1 Kings 5:2 Mean
AndThe little connecting word reminds us we’re stepping into an ongoing story (1 Kings 5:1).
• It ties this verse to the broader narrative of peace and blessing that God granted Solomon after years of warfare under David (1 Kings 4:24-25;Deuteronomy 12:10).
• Scripture’s “ands” assure us that every promise and action of God joins seamlessly together, showing His faithfulness from one generation to the next (Joshua 21:45).
SolomonHere stands the covenant king, son of David, charged with building the temple (2 Samuel 7:12-13;1 Kings 3:12-13).
• Solomon’s wisdom and favor, gifts from the Lord (1 Kings 3:5-14), equip him for this diplomatic moment.
• His obedience in seeking help reflects the humility God desires in leaders (Proverbs 15:22;James 4:6).
relayedThe king sends words before stones are ever set.
• Righteous communication paves the way for righteous work (Proverbs 16:13;Ephesians 4:25).
• Solomon’s careful relay shows planning, order, and respect—qualities God values (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40).
• The action fulfills David’s earlier preparation and instruction (1 Chronicles 22:2-4).
this messageThough the verse only signals it, verses 3-6 reveal the content: a request for cedar and skilled labor to build “a house for the Name of the LORD my God.”
• The message centers on worship, not empire (Deuteronomy 12:5;1 Kings 8:17-19).
• It acknowledges God’s past works, present peace, and future glory—an example of God-honoring negotiation (Psalm 115:1;Colossians 3:17).
to HiramHiram, king of Tyre, had loved David all his days (1 Kings 5:1;2 Samuel 5:11).
• God often raises allies outside Israel to accomplish His purposes (Isaiah 60:10-11;Acts 10:34-35).
• Their partnership pictures Gentile inclusion in God’s redemptive plan, anticipating the nations bringing their treasures to Zion (Psalm 72:10-11;Revelation 21:24-26).
• Hiram’s resources—cedar, cypress, craftsmen—show how creation itself joins in honoring the Lord when submitted to His service (1 Chronicles 29:14;Romans 11:36).
summary1 Kings 5:2 captures a pivotal moment: Solomon, blessed with wisdom and peace, takes the initiative to communicate God-honoring plans to a faithful Gentile ally. The tiny word “And” connects God’s unfolding story; Solomon’s role highlights covenant faithfulness; the act of relaying underscores orderly, truthful speech; the message itself focuses on worship; and Hiram’s inclusion foreshadows the gathering of the nations. Together they remind us that God weaves people, plans, and resources—both inside and outside Israel—into His grand purpose of exalting His Name.
Verse 2. -
And Solomon sent to Hiram. [According to Josephus (Ant. 8:02. 6), he wrote a letter, which together with Hiram's reply (ver. 8) was preserved among the public archives of Tyro. The account of
2 Chronicles 2, which as a rule is more detailed than that of the Kings, begins here. It does not notice, that is to say, the prior embassy of the Phoenician king, as the object of the chronicler is merely to narrate the measures taken for the erection of the temple],
saying [The return embassy gave Solomon the opportunity to ask for the timber, etc., that he desired.]
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
And Solomonשְׁלֹמֹ֔ה(šə·lō·mōh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8010:Solomon -- David's son and successor to his thronerelayedוַיִּשְׁלַ֣ח(way·yiš·laḥ)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7971:To send away, for, outthis messageלֵאמֹֽר׃(lê·mōr)Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 559:To utter, saytoאֶל־(’el-)Preposition
Strong's 413:Near, with, among, toHiram:חִירָ֖ם(ḥî·rām)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 2438:Hiram -- a Benjamite, also two Arameans (Syrians)
Links
1 Kings 5:2 NIV1 Kings 5:2 NLT1 Kings 5:2 ESV1 Kings 5:2 NASB1 Kings 5:2 KJV
1 Kings 5:2 BibleApps.com1 Kings 5:2 Biblia Paralela1 Kings 5:2 Chinese Bible1 Kings 5:2 French Bible1 Kings 5:2 Catholic Bible
OT History: 1 Kings 5:2 Solomon sent to Hiram saying (1Ki iKi i Ki 1 Kg 1kg)