Old Testament
1 Kings 4:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The officers provided food for King Solomon and for everyone who came to his table, each officer in his assigned month. Nothing was lacking.
Compare translations
And those officers provided victual for king Solomon, and for all that came unto king Solomon’s table, every man in his month: they lacked nothing.
What 1 Kings 4:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see how King Solomon's officers were responsible for providing food for him and all his guests. Each officer took turns serving during their assigned month, ensuring that everyone at the king's table was well-fed. This system of organization highlights the importance of teamwork and responsibility. No one went hungry, as the officers made sure that all needs were met. The abundance of food symbolizes the prosperity of Solomon's reign. It also reflects the care and attention given to hospitality, which was a significant value in that culture. This passage reminds us that when people work together, they can create a supportive environment where everyone thrives. It emphasizes the idea that leadership involves ensuring the well-being of others, not just oneself. Solomon's success was not just due to his wisdom but also the dedication of those around him who contributed to his kingdom's stability and prosperity. This story encourages us to appreciate the roles others play in our lives and to contribute positively to our communities.
How to apply 1 Kings 4:27 to your life
Consider how you can support those around you in your community. Whether it's through sharing resources or simply being present, your contributions matter. Reflect on the importance of teamwork in achieving common goals. Remember, when we work together, we can create a nurturing environment for everyone involved. Your efforts can make a difference in someone's life today.
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.
Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: Wisdom and Peace (1 Kings 4:20–34)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
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 PlansAsk AI about 1 Kings 4:27
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 4:27
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 4:27 mean?
1 Kings 4:27 describes how King Solomon's officers took turns providing food for him and his guests, ensuring that everyone was well-fed. This verse highlights the organization and teamwork involved in maintaining the king's hospitality.
What is the significance of the officers in 1 Kings 4:27?
The officers in 1 Kings 4:27 represent the importance of responsibility and teamwork in leadership. Their role in providing food symbolizes the collective effort required to support a successful reign.
What does 'they lacked nothing' mean in 1 Kings 4:27?
The phrase 'they lacked nothing' in 1 Kings 4:27 indicates that all needs were met during King Solomon's reign. It emphasizes the abundance and prosperity present in his kingdom, as well as the effectiveness of the officers' organization.
How does 1 Kings 4:27 reflect on hospitality?
1 Kings 4:27 reflects on hospitality by showing the care taken to ensure that all guests at King Solomon's table were well-fed. This highlights the cultural value placed on hospitality and the importance of meeting the needs of others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.