Lesson 315: 1 Kings 4:6
Lesson 315: 1 Kings 4:6
1 Kings 4:6
The Blueprint — The Verse
Ahishar—palace administrator; Adoniram son of Abda—in charge of forced labor.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
Solomon's administration reflected the organization of a growing monarchy with international trade, building projects, and centralized governance. Official lists in Kings show how Israel's united kingdom managed labor and palace affairs under David's successor.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
First Kings 4 names Solomon's officials and twelve district governors who supplied the royal household. Among palace administrators were Ahishar and Adoniram, who oversaw forced labor, revealing the structure behind Solomon's famed wisdom and extensive construction.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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1 Kings 4:5
Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers; Zabud the son of Nathan was chief minister, the king’s friend;
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (1 Kings 4:5) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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1 Kings 4:7
Solomon had twelve officers over all Israel, who provided food for the king and his household. Each man had to make provision for a month in the year.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately after this lesson (1 Kings 4:7) to continue the passage.
Discussion
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What does responsible governance require beyond personal wisdom?
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How should power over labor be exercised justly?
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Why might Scripture preserve mundane administrative details?
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