Old Testament
1 Kings 5:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The king commanded that large, valuable, and cut stones be brought to lay the foundation of the house.
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And the king commanded, and they brought great stones, costly stones, and hewed stones, to lay the foundation of the house.
What 1 Kings 5:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the king taking decisive action to prepare for a significant project: building a house, which is often understood as a temple. He orders the procurement of large, valuable stones that have been cut and shaped for the foundation. This shows the importance of a strong and solid base for any great endeavor. The choice of costly stones indicates that the king values quality and durability, which are essential for a lasting structure. By focusing on the foundation, he emphasizes the need for careful planning and preparation. This moment reflects the seriousness of the task ahead and the commitment to excellence. It serves as a reminder that great achievements require a solid foundation, both literally and metaphorically. Just as a building needs a strong base, our lives and projects benefit from thoughtful preparation and quality resources. The king's command illustrates the importance of investing in what truly matters to ensure success in our endeavors.
How to apply 1 Kings 5:17 to your life
Consider what foundations you are building in your life. Are you investing in quality relationships, education, or personal growth? Just like the king's careful choice of stones, prioritize what will support your future endeavors. Strong foundations lead to lasting success and fulfillment in all areas of life. Take time to reflect on your priorities today.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: Cedars from Hiram (1 Kings 5:1–18)
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Solomon
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying 1 Kings 5:17
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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 5:17 teach about preparation?
1 Kings 5:17 highlights the importance of preparation in any significant project. The king's command to gather large, valuable stones for the foundation of the house signifies that careful planning and quality materials are essential for success. This verse serves as a reminder that taking the time to establish a strong foundation is crucial, whether in building structures or in our personal and professional lives.
Why are the stones described as 'costly' in 1 Kings 5:17?
The stones in 1 Kings 5:17 are described as 'costly' to emphasize the value placed on quality and durability. By choosing expensive and well-crafted stones, the king demonstrates a commitment to excellence and the importance of investing in resources that will ensure the longevity and stability of the house, which is often interpreted as a temple. This choice reflects the significance of the project and the desire for it to stand the test of time.
How can I apply the lessons from 1 Kings 5:17 to my life?
To apply the lessons from 1 Kings 5:17, consider what foundations you are building in your life. Reflect on your relationships, education, and personal growth. Just as the king prioritized quality stones for a strong foundation, you should invest in areas that will support your future endeavors. This might mean nurturing meaningful relationships or pursuing further education. Strong foundations lead to lasting success and fulfillment.
What is the significance of laying a strong foundation according to 1 Kings 5:17?
Laying a strong foundation, as illustrated in 1 Kings 5:17, is crucial for the stability and success of any project. A solid foundation ensures that what is built upon it can withstand challenges and endure over time. This principle applies not only to physical structures but also to our personal and professional lives, where thoughtful preparation and quality investments can lead to lasting achievements and resilience against difficulties.
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