Old Testament
1 Kings 4:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
10 fattened cattle, 20 pasture-fed cattle, and 100 sheep — plus deer, gazelles, roebucks, and fattened fowl.
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Ten fat oxen, and twenty oxen out of the pastures, and an hundred sheep, beside harts, and roebucks, and fallowdeer, and fatted fowl.
What 1 Kings 4:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a glimpse of the lavish provisions made for King Solomon's court. The mention of ten fattened cattle, twenty pasture-fed cattle, and a hundred sheep highlights the abundance and wealth of his kingdom. Additionally, the inclusion of deer, gazelles, roebucks, and fattened fowl suggests a variety of food sources, indicating a well-fed and prosperous society. This abundance reflects not only Solomon's riches but also his ability to provide for his people. It paints a picture of a time when the king's table was filled with the best offerings, symbolizing prosperity and generosity. Such provisions were essential for feasts and gatherings, showcasing the importance of hospitality in that culture. This verse serves as a reminder of the blessings that come with leadership and the responsibility to care for others. It encourages us to think about how we can share our resources and create a welcoming environment for those around us, just as Solomon did for his people.
How to apply 1 Kings 4:23 to your life
Consider how you can share your resources with others. Whether it's inviting friends over for a meal or supporting those in need, your generosity can create a sense of community. Reflect on the importance of hospitality in your life and how it can impact those around you. Small acts of kindness can lead to greater connections and joy in your relationships. Be intentional about creating a welcoming atmosphere wherever you go, just like Solomon.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: Wisdom and Peace (1 Kings 4:20–34)
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Solomon
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.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying 1 Kings 4:23
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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 4:23 reveal about King Solomon's wealth?
1 Kings 4:23 highlights the immense wealth and abundance of King Solomon's court by detailing the lavish provisions made for his meals. The mention of ten fattened cattle, twenty pasture-fed cattle, and a hundred sheep, along with various game, illustrates not only Solomon's riches but also his capability to provide for his people, showcasing a prosperous and generous leadership.
How does 1 Kings 4:23 reflect the culture of hospitality?
This verse reflects the culture of hospitality in ancient Israel, where feasts and gatherings were significant social events. The extensive variety of food mentioned indicates the importance of providing for guests and the community, emphasizing that hospitality was a valued virtue. Solomon's ability to host such lavish meals underscores the expectation for leaders to care for and generously serve their people.
What can we learn about generosity from 1 Kings 4:23?
From 1 Kings 4:23, we learn that generosity is a key aspect of leadership and community well-being. Solomon's provisions for his court serve as a reminder that sharing resources, whether through hosting meals or supporting those in need, fosters connections and strengthens relationships. This verse encourages us to reflect on our own generosity and how we can create a welcoming environment for others.
Why is the variety of food mentioned in 1 Kings 4:23 significant?
The variety of food in 1 Kings 4:23 is significant as it symbolizes the richness and diversity of resources available during Solomon's reign. It indicates not only the wealth of the kingdom but also the well-being of its people, who enjoyed a range of nutritious options. This abundance reflects a thriving society and the king's ability to ensure that his subjects were well-fed and cared for.
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