This bible study on 1 Kings chapter 5 explores the preparations for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. It highlights themes of divine provision, godly collaboration, and wise leadership in accomplishing God's work. Tyre was an important port city on the Mediterranean Sea north of Israel. A chief city of Phoenicia and a friendly neighboring kingdom of Israel.

Study questions

1. Read 1 Kings 5:1–6.

• What relationship existed between Hiram and David, and how did this influence Hiram's actions toward Solomon (1 Kings 5:1)? Also see 2 Samuel 5:11
• What reason does Solomon give Hiram for why David was unable to build the temple (1 Kings 5:3)?
• What does Solomon's statement about having "no adversary" (1 Kings 5:4) reveal about the state of his kingdom and God's faithfulness?
• What does Solomon's reliance on Hiram's craftsmen reveal about his wisdom (1 Kings 5:6)? What does this teach us about using the unique gifts of others for God's purposes?

2. Read 1 Kings 5:7–12.

• How does Hiram react to Solomon's proposal (1 Kings 5:7)? What does his response tell you about the reputation of Israel's God?
• What specific details does Hiram provide about how he will accomplish the work (1 Kings 5:9)? How does this cooperation illustrate the theme of unity in accomplishing God's will?
• What was the nature of the agreement made between the two kings (1 Kings 5:12)? What did they exchange?
• How did God's promise to give Solomon wisdom feature in this alliance (1 Kings 5:12)?

3. Read 1 Kings 5:13–18.

• How did Solomon organize the workforce for the project (1 Kings 5:13–16)? What was the role of the Israelites versus the laborers from other nations?
• What specific work were the laborers tasked with (1 Kings 5:17–18)?
• How does the detailed description of the workforce and materials underscore the magnitude of the project? How can we apply this idea of diligent preparation to our own service to God?
• Consider the mention of the "costly stones" for the foundation (1 Kings 5:17). What spiritual significance does a solid, costly foundation have?

Bible study notes

I. A wise alliance (1 Kings 5:1–12)

• The friendship inherited: The passage opens by noting that King Hiram of Tyre was a long-time friend of David. His friendly gesture of sending ambassadors to congratulate Solomon upon his coronation provided a positive foundation for their future cooperation.
• A time of peace: Solomon's request for Hiram's help is framed by his father David's thwarted desire to build the Temple due to constant warfare (1 Kings 5:3). Solomon points out that God has now provided a time of peace, free from adversaries, which aligns with God's timing for building the Temple (1 Kings 5:4). The word for "adversary," satan, suggests that no hostile power, whether earthly or spiritual, was opposing God's plan at this time.
• Skilled partnership: Solomon demonstrates remarkable humility and wisdom by acknowledging that the Israelites lacked the skilled timber-cutters possessed by Hiram's Sidonian servants (1 Kings 5:6). His willingness to collaborate with a non-Israelite king showcases his good judgment and reliance on God's provision through others. Hiram recognizes and praises God for this wisdom granted to Solomon (1 Kings 5:7).
• Mutually beneficial treaty: The resulting agreement is a "win-win" business deal that benefits both kingdoms. Hiram provides the invaluable cedar and cypress timber from Lebanon, famous for its durability and pleasant aroma, along with skilled craftsmen. Solomon, in turn, provides food for Hiram's household, a practical and consistent payment. The peaceful treaty between them was a result of God's wisdom in Solomon.

II. An organized and diligent workforce (1 Kings 5:13–18)

• The levy: To carry out the massive Temple project, Solomon conscripts a levy of 30,000 men from all over Israel. They are sent to Lebanon in shifts, working one month there and then having two months at home. The nature of this forced labor has been debated by scholars, but it was likely seen as a temporary, legitimate tax of service for a sacred purpose, unlike the permanent slavery of non-Israelites.
• A vast labor force: In addition to the Israelites working in Lebanon, Solomon employs a very large number of other laborers: 70,000 burden-bearers, 80,000 stonecutters, and 3,300 overseers. These men likely consisted of non-Israelites, such as the descendants of the Canaanites, who were placed in permanent servitude for such tasks 2 Chronicles 8:7-8 (compare 1 Kings 9:20–21).
• The precious foundation: The laborers were commanded to quarry "great, costly stones" for the Temple's foundation (1 Kings 5:17). This detail is significant, as the foundation represents the most critical, unseen part of a structure. Similarly, Christ is the chosen and precious cornerstone of the spiritual house (1 Peter 2:6), and the foundation of our faith is built on him.
• Collective effort: The final verses emphasize the collaborative effort of both Hiram's and Solomon's workers in preparing the materials. The combined skills of these diverse laborers—Israelite, Sidonian, and Gebalite—were necessary to accomplish the great work.

Application points

• Embrace collaboration: Just as Solomon sought out Hiram's expertise, we should not be afraid to seek help from others who have skills we lack. God often places talented people in our lives to help accomplish his work.
• Use wisdom and resources for God: Solomon's wealth, wisdom, and alliances were all directed toward building the Temple. Our own resources, abilities, and relationships should also be used to honor God and build his kingdom.
• Recognize God's hand in peace: The peace and prosperity of Solomon's reign was a divine blessing that enabled the Temple construction. We can be grateful for times of peace in our own lives, which allow us to focus on our spiritual growth and service to God.
• Build on a solid foundation: The costly stones of the Temple's foundation remind us that a lasting structure needs a solid base. In our spiritual lives, we must build on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ and a deep, rooted faith.
• Diligent preparation for service: Solomon and his workers meticulously prepared the materials for the Temple. Similarly, we should approach our service to God with care, diligence, and planning, as these are acts of worship.