1 Kings 5:12

Hiram’s Reply to Solomon · 1 Kings 5:7–12
Read 1 Kings 5

Translations

Modern
And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, as He had promised him. There was peace between Hiram and Solomon, and the two of them made a treaty.
Traditional
And the Lord gave Solomon wisdom, as he promised him: and there was peace between Hiram and Solomon; and they two made a league together.
Literal
And YHWH gave wisdom to Solomon as He had promised to him, and there was peace between Hiram and between Solomon, and the two of them cut a covenant.
Latin
Dedit quoque Dominus sapientiam Salomoni, sicut locutus est ei: et erat pax inter Hiram et Salomonem, et percusserunt ambo fœdus.

Original

Hebrew
English
And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, as He had promised him. There was peace between Hiram and Solomon, and the two of them made a treaty.

Notes

Hiram's response to Solomon confirmed and continued the friendly relations he had with David. The partnership benefited both sides. Solomon got the construction materials he needed for the temple. In return, he provided necessities for Hiram's household (1 Kings 5:9–10) and paid Hiram's workers (1 Kings 5:6). This passage shows the Phoenicians' skill in business and Solomon's great wealth. It also highlights Solomon's wisdom, which he believed was a gift from God. The mainly business-focused venture led to a formal peace alliance (1 Kings 5:12).

King Hiram of Tyre was a loyal friend of David (2 Samuel 5:11–12). This likely means they had a treaty. Hiram was an important ally and business partner (1 Kings 5:7–11, 18; 9:11, 26–28; 10:22). His name is a shorter version of Ahiram, found in other Phoenician writings.

Theme notes and profiles

Solomon Solomon’s Wisdom

Events

Parallels

2 Chronicles 2:11–18

People

Hiram: King of Tyre, ally of David and Solomon Solomon: Son of David, king of Israel, known for his wisdom

Glossary

Alliance Covenant Kings, Books of First and Second Lebanon Peace Postexilic Period Solomon (Person)

Topics

Alliances: Solomon and Hiram Covenants: The Jews: Frequently Made with Other Nations Diplomacy: Solomon, in his Alliance with Hiram Temple: Solomon's: Materials For, Furnished by Hiram the First Temple: Solomon: Contracted with Hiram for Wood, Stone, and Labour Treaty: Reciprocity Wisdom of Solomon