Old Testament
1 Kings 5:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So please order your workers to cut cedar trees for me from Lebanon. My workers will serve alongside yours, and I'll pay your workers whatever wages you set. You know as well as I do that nobody can cut timber like the Sidonians."
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Now therefore command thou that they hew me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and my servants shall be with thy servants: and unto thee will I give hire for thy servants according to all that thou shalt appoint: for thou knowest that there is not among us any that can skill to hew timber like unto the Sidonians.
What 1 Kings 5:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, King Solomon is reaching out to King Hiram of Tyre to request cedar wood for building the temple. He acknowledges the expertise of the Sidonians in cutting timber, emphasizing their skill. Solomon offers to pay Hiram's workers fairly, showing respect for their labor. This collaboration highlights the importance of teamwork and valuing others' abilities. By working together, they can achieve something great. Solomon's request is not just about the wood; it symbolizes the unity and partnership needed to accomplish significant tasks. This moment reflects the wisdom of seeking help from those who excel in specific areas, ensuring the best results for the project. It teaches us that recognizing and utilizing the strengths of others can lead to success in our endeavors. Solomon's approach is a reminder that great achievements often require collaboration and mutual respect, setting a foundation for future relationships and projects. The passage encourages us to appreciate the skills of others and to work together towards common goals.
How to apply 1 Kings 5:6 to your life
Consider the projects in your life where you could benefit from the skills of others. Don't hesitate to ask for help or collaborate with those who have expertise. Recognizing and valuing others' strengths can lead to greater success and fulfillment in your endeavors. Teamwork is essential for achieving significant goals together. Embrace the power of partnership in your life 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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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 5:6 mean?
1 Kings 5:6 describes King Solomon requesting cedar trees from King Hiram of Tyre for building the temple. Solomon acknowledges the Sidonians' skill in cutting timber and offers to pay Hiram's workers, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and valuing expertise.
What is the significance of cedar trees in 1 Kings 5:6?
Cedar trees are significant in 1 Kings 5:6 because they were highly valued for their durability and fragrance, making them ideal for building the temple. Solomon's request for cedar highlights the importance of using quality materials in significant projects.
What does Solomon's request in 1 Kings 5:6 teach us?
Solomon's request in 1 Kings 5:6 teaches us the value of collaboration and recognizing the strengths of others. By seeking help from skilled workers, Solomon demonstrates that teamwork is essential for achieving great goals.
How does 1 Kings 5:6 reflect teamwork?
1 Kings 5:6 reflects teamwork by showing how Solomon and Hiram work together to achieve a common goal. Solomon's offer to pay Hiram's workers and his acknowledgment of their expertise illustrate the importance of partnership in successful projects.
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