Question 1

Why could David not build the house for the Lord but Solomon could?

Accepted Answer

Solomon explains that his father David wanted to build a house for the Lord, but could not because of the many wars around him. His life was marked by fighting enemies on every side, and the time was not right for a work that pictured peace and settled worship. God had promised that a son on David’s throne would build the house instead. Under Solomon, God gave rest from enemies, so the king could focus on building the temple as God had said, at a time of peace rather than war.

Question 2

What does it mean that the Lord gave Solomon rest on every side?

Accepted Answer

The phrase means that God had removed hostile nations and serious troubles around Israel so that Solomon ruled in a time of calm. There were no active enemies attacking and no major disasters stopping the work. This rest was not just comfort for Solomon, but also made room for a big task: building a house for God’s name. It shows that peaceful conditions are a gift from God and can be used for His worship and for steady, long-term work in His service.

Question 3

Why did Solomon ask Hiram for cedar and Sidonian workers?

Accepted Answer

Solomon knew that the people of Tyre and Sidon were highly skilled in cutting and preparing timber, especially cedar from Lebanon. He openly admits that no one among his own people could match their skill. By asking Hiram for cedar and trained workers, and offering fair payment, Solomon shows humility and wisdom. He does not pretend Israel can do everything alone but gladly joins with others so the temple will be well built. This honors God by using the best materials and the best skills available.

Question 4

What is the significance of Hiram blessing the Lord for Solomon’s wisdom?

Accepted Answer

When Hiram hears Solomon’s plan and letter, he rejoices and says, “Blessed be the Lord this day, which hath given unto David a wise son.” This shows that even a foreign king recognizes God’s hand in Israel’s new ruler. Hiram sees Solomon’s wisdom as a gift from God, not just human talent. His words confirm that God has kept His promise to David. Their alliance is not only political but also marked by respect for Israel’s God and for the wise leadership God has provided.

Question 5

How did Solomon organize the workers for building the temple?

Accepted Answer

Solomon raised a levy of thirty thousand men from Israel, sending ten thousand at a time to Lebanon for one month, then giving them two months at home. Over them was Adoniram. In addition, there were seventy thousand who carried burdens and eighty thousand who worked cutting stone in the mountains, along with over three thousand overseers. This shows careful planning, shared loads, and built-in rest. The work was heavy and large in scale, but Solomon arranged it so that people were supervised and not always away from home.

Question 6

What does the trade between Solomon and Hiram teach about fair cooperation?

Accepted Answer

Hiram supplied cedar and fir timber, arranging for his servants to float the logs by sea to a place Solomon chose. In return, Solomon provided large amounts of wheat and pure oil for Hiram’s household year by year. Both sides clearly stated what they would give, and both kept their word. The passage highlights fairness, clear agreements, and ongoing kindness, not taking advantage. It shows that God’s work can be supported through honest trade and that partnerships can bless both sides when handled with integrity.

Question 7

Why are the great and costly stones for the temple foundation mentioned?

Accepted Answer

The text notes that the king commanded great stones, costly stones, and carefully shaped stones to be brought to lay the foundation of the house. This shows that the temple was not thrown together cheaply but built with care and honor. Using the best materials reflected the worth of the God they were worshiping. It also hints at how God’s people later understood the temple as a picture of His dwelling with them, with a strong and precious foundation, reminding us that what is for God should not be treated lightly.

Question 8

What does this passage teach about God’s wisdom in leadership?

Accepted Answer

The passage plainly says that the Lord gave Solomon wisdom, as He had promised. That wisdom shows up in how Solomon remembers God’s promise to David, waits for a time of peace, treats Hiram with respect, admits where others have better skills, sets fair payments, and organizes the labor force with order and rest. None of this is random. It shows that wise leadership is a gift from God and is meant to serve His purposes, bless people, and help build up a place where God is honored.

Question 9

How can the partnership of Solomon and Hiram encourage believers today?

Accepted Answer

This story shows two leaders working together for something bigger than themselves: the building of a house for God’s name. Solomon brings the calling, the people, and the land. Hiram brings skilled workers and materials. Neither side has everything, but together they move the work forward. For believers today, this encourages welcoming help from others who respect God, valuing different gifts, and making fair agreements. It reminds us that God often uses cooperation and shared effort to build up His work in the world.

1 Kings 5:1

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.

Preparations for the Temple

Hiram’s Reply to Solomon

Solomon’s Labor Force

Preparations for the Temple

Cross References

1 Kings 5:1

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.

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Preparations for the Temple

Hiram’s Reply to Solomon

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Preparations for the Temple

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