1 Kings 1-5 in the King James Bible sets the stage for the reign of King Solomon, one of Israel’s most renowned monarchs. These chapters cover the final days of King David, the political intrigue surrounding his succession, Solomon’s rise to power, and his early acts of wisdom and diplomacy. It’s a pivotal moment in Israel’s history as the kingdom transitions from the rule of David to Solomon, marking the beginning of a golden age for Israel.
1 Kings 1: The Struggle for Succession
The opening chapter of 1 Kings portrays a tense and dramatic power struggle. King David, now old and frail, is nearing the end of his life. His weakened state creates uncertainty about who will succeed him on the throne. Though Solomon is David’s chosen successor, Adonijah, David’s fourth son, attempts to seize the throne.
Adonijah, taking advantage of David’s declining health, proclaims himself king with the support of key figures such as Joab, the commander of David’s army, and Abiathar, the priest. He holds a feast to celebrate his self-proclaimed kingship, but notably excludes Solomon, Nathan the prophet, and Zadok the priest.
Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, act quickly. Bathsheba approaches David, reminding him of his promise that Solomon would reign. Nathan confirms this, urging David to act. In response, David commands that Solomon be anointed as king. Zadok and Nathan publicly anoint Solomon, and the people of Israel celebrate his ascension, thwarting Adonijah’s plans.
When Adonijah hears that Solomon has been made king, he fears for his life and seeks sanctuary at the altar. Solomon shows mercy and spares his life, on the condition that he proves himself loyal.
1 Kings 2: David’s Final Instructions and Solomon’s Consolidation of Power
As David nears death, he gives Solomon final instructions for how to rule, advising him to follow the Lord’s commandments and walk in His ways. David emphasizes the importance of justice, particularly in dealing with unresolved issues from his reign. He instructs Solomon to deal with Joab, who had shed innocent blood, and Shimei, who had cursed David during Absalom’s rebellion, while also showing kindness to the sons of Barzillai, a loyal supporter.
After David dies, Solomon begins consolidating his rule by addressing potential threats. Adonijah, still harboring ambitions for the throne, requests to marry Abishag, David’s former concubine. Solomon sees this as a thinly veiled attempt to claim the throne and orders Adonijah’s execution.
Solomon also deals with those who had supported Adonijah’s rebellion. Joab is executed for his past crimes, and Abiathar is removed from the priesthood, fulfilling the prophecy against the house of Eli. Shimei, initially spared, is placed under house arrest, but when he violates the terms, Solomon orders his execution as well.
Through these actions, Solomon solidifies his control, eliminating the remnants of internal rebellion and ensuring the stability of his reign.
1 Kings 3: Solomon’s Request for Wisdom
1 Kings 3 marks one of the most famous moments in Solomon’s reign—his request for wisdom. After securing his kingdom, Solomon goes to Gibeon to offer sacrifices. There, the Lord appears to him in a dream and offers him anything he desires.
Solomon humbly acknowledges his youth and inexperience in governing such a vast people. Instead of asking for wealth, power, or long life, Solomon requests an “understanding heart” to judge the people wisely and to discern between good and evil.
Pleased with Solomon’s selfless request, God grants him unparalleled wisdom, as well as riches and honor. God promises that if Solomon follows His ways, He will also grant him a long life.
This chapter also includes the famous story of Solomon’s wisdom in action. Two women come before him, both claiming to be the mother of a living baby, while the other baby had died. Solomon suggests cutting the baby in half and giving each woman a portion. The true mother immediately offers to give up her claim to save the child, revealing her identity. Solomon’s judgment astounds the people and solidifies his reputation for unparalleled wisdom.
1 Kings 4: Solomon’s Prosperity and the Organization of His Kingdom
1 Kings 4 provides a detailed account of the structure and organization of Solomon’s kingdom. Solomon’s rule is marked by peace, prosperity, and efficient governance. The chapter lists Solomon’s key officials, including Azariah, the son of Zadok the priest, and Benaiah, who commanded the army.
Solomon divides Israel into twelve administrative districts, each overseen by a governor responsible for providing food and supplies for the king’s household. This system ensures a steady flow of resources and maintains order throughout the kingdom.
Under Solomon’s rule, Israel enjoys unprecedented prosperity. The people live in peace, “every man under his vine and under his fig tree,” a phrase symbolizing security and abundance. The kingdom is expansive, stretching from the Euphrates River to the land of Philistines and the borders of Egypt, with neighboring nations paying tribute.
Solomon’s wisdom is renowned not just within Israel but throughout the surrounding nations. He is credited with speaking 3,000 proverbs and composing 1,005 songs, as well as having a deep knowledge of nature, from plants to animals.
1 Kings 5: Solomon Prepares to Build the Temple
1 Kings 5 focuses on Solomon’s preparations to build the Temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling the dream of his father, David. Solomon initiates a diplomatic relationship with Hiram, the king of Tyre, who had been a close ally of David. Solomon requests cedar and fir trees from Lebanon, acknowledging the superior craftsmanship of the Sidonians in timber work.
Hiram gladly agrees, praising the Lord for giving David a wise son to rule over Israel. The two kings establish a treaty, and Solomon provides food for Hiram’s household in exchange for the timber and skilled workers.
To carry out the construction, Solomon conscripts laborers from Israel, with 30,000 men sent to work in shifts in Lebanon. Additionally, 70,000 burden bearers and 80,000 stonecutters are employed for the project. 3,300 overseers manage the workforce, ensuring the massive undertaking progresses smoothly.
These preparations mark the beginning of Solomon’s greatest legacy—the construction of the Temple, which will become the spiritual and national center of Israel.
Conclusion: The Foundations of Solomon’s Reign
1 Kings 1-5 presents the rise of Solomon to the throne and his establishment as a wise and just ruler over Israel. These chapters highlight his consolidation of power, his request for divine wisdom, and his preparations for building the Temple, a central place of worship for the people of Israel.
Solomon’s reign is characterized by peace, prosperity, and wisdom, setting the stage for what will be remembered as Israel’s golden age. His early acts of wisdom and diplomacy illustrate his reliance on God and his commitment to fulfilling the promises made to his father, David. As these chapters unfold, the reader is drawn into the intricate details of Solomon’s leadership, a reign that will have lasting spiritual and political impact on the nation of Israel.
