Old Testament

1 Kings 10:18

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Moreover, the king made a magnificent throne of ivory and covered it with the finest gold.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with the best gold.

What 1 Kings 10:18 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, we see the king's commitment to creating something truly special. He constructed a throne made of ivory, a material that symbolizes luxury and wealth. To enhance its beauty, he covered the throne with the finest gold, showcasing his power and status. This act reflects not only his wealth but also his desire to impress others. The throne serves as a representation of his reign and authority. It’s a reminder that the things we create can reflect our values and aspirations. The king’s throne is not just a seat; it’s a statement about who he is and what he stands for. In our lives, we too can create things that represent our values and dreams, whether it’s in our work, relationships, or personal projects. What we build can inspire others and leave a lasting impression, just like the king’s magnificent throne did in his kingdom. It encourages us to think about how we present ourselves and what legacy we want to leave behind through our creations and actions.

How to apply 1 Kings 10:18 to your life

Consider what you are building in your life. Are your creations reflecting your true values and aspirations? Whether it’s your work, relationships, or personal projects, strive to create something meaningful that inspires others and leaves a positive impact. Your efforts can shape your legacy and influence those around you. Embrace the opportunity to build with purpose and intention. Keep your values at the forefront of your creations.

Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of King Solomon on his great throne of ivory and gold, with lions on its six steps, as visitors bring him gifts of gold and silver

Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: Solomon's Riches (1 Kings 10:14–29)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Solomon

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about 1 Kings 10:18

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying 1 Kings 10:18

At a Glance — the Book of 1 Kings

Author
Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
Written
Around 560 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Exiled Israelites in Babylon

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does 1 Kings 10:18 mean?

1 Kings 10:18 describes the construction of a lavish throne by the king, made of ivory and covered in gold. This symbolizes his wealth, power, and desire to impress others, reflecting the grandeur of his reign.

What is the significance of the throne in 1 Kings 10:18?

The throne in 1 Kings 10:18 represents authority and status. Its luxurious materials, ivory and gold, highlight the king's wealth and his intention to showcase his power to his subjects and visitors.

What does ivory symbolize in 1 Kings 10:18?

In 1 Kings 10:18, ivory symbolizes luxury and opulence. The use of such a material for the throne emphasizes the king's wealth and the importance he places on his royal image.

How does 1 Kings 10:18 relate to legacy?

1 Kings 10:18 illustrates how the king's throne serves as a lasting symbol of his reign and authority. It encourages us to consider how our own creations can reflect our values and leave a meaningful legacy.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.