1 Kings 5:11 – “and Solomon gave Hiram twenty thousand cors of wheat as food for his household, in addition to twenty thousand baths of pressed olive oil. Solomon continued to do this for Hiram year after year.”

Extended Explanation

In 1 Kings 5:11, we see Solomon fulfilling his part of the agreement with Hiram, king of Tyre. In exchange for the cedar and juniper logs provided for the temple construction, Solomon supplied Hiram with 20,000 cors of wheat and 20,000 baths of pressed olive oil annually. This arrangement reflects a fair and mutually beneficial trade agreement between the two kings. Hiram provided the materials needed for the temple, and Solomon met his needs by supplying food and oil for his royal household. The verse emphasizes that this arrangement was not a one-time deal but a yearly provision, highlighting the sustained partnership between the two nations.

Historical Context

The quantity of wheat and olive oil mentioned here is substantial, reflecting the wealth and agricultural productivity of Israel under Solomon’s rule. Wheat and olive oil were essential commodities in the ancient world, used for daily sustenance, cooking, and trade. The “cors” and “baths” are units of measure, with a cor being roughly 220 liters and a bath approximately 22 liters. Solomon’s ability to provide such a large amount of food to Hiram shows the prosperity and abundance that Israel enjoyed during his reign. This exchange also strengthened the alliance between Israel and Tyre, as Hiram continued to supply materials for the temple while Solomon supported Tyre with necessary provisions.

Theological Implications

Theologically, this verse demonstrates God’s provision and blessing on Solomon’s kingdom. Israel’s prosperity allowed them to share resources with other nations, fulfilling their role as a light to the nations around them. The continuous supply of food and oil also reflects the idea of faithful stewardship. Just as Solomon provided for Hiram year after year, God’s provision for His people is ongoing and abundant. This passage highlights the importance of generosity and faithfulness in relationships, especially when it comes to fulfilling promises and supporting others.

Literary Analysis

1 Kings 5:11 is part of a larger narrative detailing the preparations for building the temple. This verse serves to show the reciprocal nature of the agreement between Solomon and Hiram. The specific mention of wheat and olive oil emphasizes the practical aspects of their cooperation, illustrating the day-to-day needs of an ancient kingdom. The phrase “year after year” underscores the sustained nature of their partnership, which was based on trust and mutual benefit. This literary detail helps to frame the broader theme of peace and cooperation during Solomon’s reign, which allowed for such extensive building projects.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Kings 4:21 – This verse describes Solomon’s rule over a vast kingdom, where he received tribute from surrounding nations, reflecting Israel’s prosperity.
• Deuteronomy 8:8 – This passage lists wheat and olive oil as symbols of the Promised Land’s abundance, reminding us that God provided for His people’s needs.
• 2 Chronicles 2:10 – A parallel account of Solomon providing wheat, barley, wine, and olive oil to Hiram, emphasizing the breadth of the agreement.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, 1 Kings 5:11 teaches the value of faithfulness and generosity in relationships and partnerships. Just as Solomon faithfully supplied Hiram with food and oil year after year, Christians are called to honor their commitments and be generous with the resources God has given them. This verse also reminds believers that God is the ultimate provider, and when we give, we are reflecting His character. Whether in relationships, work, or ministry, Christians are encouraged to be dependable and to share their blessings with others, knowing that God provides in abundance.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love through His provision and blessing. The prosperity that allowed Solomon to provide for Hiram came from God, and this abundance was a sign of God’s favor on Israel. God’s love is seen in how He equips His people to be a blessing to others, fulfilling His promises of provision and care. The ongoing nature of Solomon’s generosity also points to the faithfulness of God, who continually meets the needs of His people. This relationship between Solomon and Hiram illustrates how God’s love extends beyond Israel’s borders, using His people to bless the nations around them.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Solomon’s provision of food and oil for Hiram points to the greater provision made through Jesus Christ. Just as Solomon provided physical sustenance to Hiram, Jesus offers spiritual sustenance to all who come to Him. Jesus is the bread of life (John 6:35) and the source of living water (John 7:38), offering eternal life and satisfaction to those who believe in Him. The ongoing nature of Solomon’s provision year after year also reflects the constant and unending provision of grace that Jesus gives to His followers. Just as Hiram depended on Solomon’s faithfulness, we depend on Christ’s faithfulness for our spiritual needs.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How can you practice faithfulness and generosity in your relationships and commitments, as Solomon did with Hiram?
2. What resources has God blessed you with, and how can you use them to bless others?
3. In what ways have you experienced God’s ongoing provision in your life, both physically and spiritually?
4. How does Jesus’ role as the bread of life and source of living water shape your understanding of God’s provision for your spiritual needs?