Keraia
1 Kings 10

1 Kings 10:20

Solomon’s Wealth and Splendor · 1 Kings 10:14–29
Read 1 Kings 10

Translations

Modern
Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom.
Traditional
And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom.
Literal
And twelve lions stood there on the six steps, on this side and on this side. Nothing had been made like this for any kingdoms.
Latin
Et duodecim leunculi stantes super sex gradus hinc atque inde: non est factum tale opus in universis regnis.

Original

Hebrew
English
Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom.

Notes

1 Kings 10:18–21

Solomon got ivory by trading with Hiram. Kings in the Ancient Near East often used lion figures to show royal power and to symbolize divine protection of the throne.

1 Kings 10:14–29

To show more of Solomon’s greatness, the writer adds to the story of the queen’s visit (1 Kings 10:1–13). The writer describes Solomon’s wise use of wealth in building his palace complex (10:14–21). The writer then tells how Solomon’s wisdom also brought wide influence through his trade and commercial dealings (10:22–29).

Theme notes and profiles

Solomon Solomon’s Wisdom

Events

Parallels

2 Chronicles 1:14–17 2 Chronicles 9:13–28

Glossary

Banker, Banking Jerusalem Kings, Books of First and Second Lebanon Lion Palace Solomon (Person) Throne

Topics

King: Tariff on Imports, and Internal Revenue on Merchandise Lion: Twelve Statues of, on the Stairs Leading to Solomon's Throne Solomon: Ivory Throne of Throne of Ivory