Preface: Essentially, 1Kings 4 is an overview of Solomon’s reign over Israel. Many would expect a chapter like this to occur right before his death.

This should be the most extensive examination of 1Kings 4 available, where you will be able to examine in depth every word of the original text.

Quotations:

 

John Owen: Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.

 

Jesus: “The queen of the south will rise up in the judgment with this generation, and will condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and behold, someone greater than Solomon is here.” (Matt. 12:42; WEB)

 

King Solomon on Divine wisdom:

 

King Solomon: Your own soul is nourished when you are kind; it is destroyed when you are cruel.

 

King Solomon (Prov. 3:6; Green’s literal translation): In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.

 

Proverbs 18:10 (a graphic) from Christian quotes; accessed April 15, 2016.

 

King Solomon: Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance. (Prov. 1:5)

 

King Solomon: Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. (Prov. 3:3–4)

 

King Solomon (Proverbs 3:13-14): Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold.

 

King Solomon on divine establishment:

 

King Solomon (Proverbs 29:2): When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.

 

King Solomon: Train up a child in the way that he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

 

King Solomon (Proverbs 6:10-11): A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.

 

King Solomon: If you see oppression of the poor, and justice and righteousness trampled in a country, do not be astounded.

 

King Solomon: Do not rebuke mockers, or they will hate you; rebuke the wise, and they will love you.

 

King Solomon: A fool is wise in his eyes.

 

King Solomon on natural history and science:

 

King Solomon: All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full.

 

King Solomon (Proverbs 14:30): A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.

Outline of Chapter 4:

Introduction

         vv.     1–19         Solomon’s Officials

         vv.         1–6          Solomon’s Cabinet

         vv.         7–19        Solomon’s Officials Throughout Israel

         vv.    20–28         The Prosperity, Safety and Provisions of Israel Under Solomon

         vv.    29–34         Solomon’s Great Wisdom

Addendum

Charts, Graphics and Short Doctrines:

         Preface               Quotations

         Preface               Proverbs 18:10 (a graphic)

         Introduction         1Kings 4 was written late in the reign of Solomon; or after his death

         Introduction         The Principals of 1Kings 4

         Introduction         The Prequel of 1Kings 4

         Introduction         The Abbreviated Timeline of the Kings

         Introduction         Clarke’s Synopsis of 1Kings 4

         Introduction         Summary/Overview of 1Kings 4 (by Various Commentators)

         Introduction         The Annotated Bible’s Outline (Edited)

         Introduction         Matthew Henry’s Outlines of 1Kings 4

         Introduction         Poole’s Organization of 1Kings 4

         Introduction         The Administration of the Kingdom (4:1-34) (Bridgeway Bible Commentary)

         Introduction         929 Chapters Outline of 1Kings 4

         Introduction         The Summarized Bible’s Overview of 1Kings 4

         Introduction         A Short Introduction to the Content of 1Kings 4 (Several Commentators)

         v.       1              Peter Pett’s Organization of 1Kings 4:1–21

         v.       1              King Solomon was king over all Israel (graphic)

         v.       2              Introduction to the Officers of Solomon (Several Commentators and Kukis)

         v.       2              Obama Scandals (a graphic)

         v.       2              The Cambridge Bible on the Term Priest

         v.       2              Commentators on the Duties of Azariah ben Zadok

         v.       2              Two Points of View Concerning Azariah ben Zadok

         v.       2              Doctrine of the Priesthood (Ballinger, Thieme)

         v.       2              Kings, Prophets and Priests (Chart)

         v.       3              Commentators on the Duties of Elihoreph and Ahijah beni Shisha (Seraiah)

         v.       3              Commentators on the Duties of Jehoshaphat ben Ahilud

         v.       4              Commentators on the Duties of Benaiah ben Jehoiada

         v.       4              Commentators on the Duties of Zadok and Abiathar

         v.       4              Matthew Poole on Why Abiathar’s Name is Found Here

         v.       5              Commentators on the Duties of Azariah ben Nathan

         v.       5              Commentators on the Duties of Zabud ben Nathan

         v.       6              Commentators on the Duties of Ahishar

         v.       6              Commentators on the Duties of Adoniram ben Abda

         v.       6              Summary Observations Based Upon 1Kings 4:1–6

         v.       6              Artist's depiction of Solomon's court (Ingobertus, c. 880)

         v.       6              The Mostly Incorrect Views of Priests by the Expositor’s Bible Commentary

         v.       6              Summarizing 1Kings 4:1–6 from Carpe Scriptura

         v.       7              Introduction to 1Kings 4:7–19 (Several Commentators)

         v.       7              Solomon’s 12 Districts and Surrounding Nations (a map)

         v.       7              Peter Pett Introduces and Summarizes 1Kings 4:7–21

         v.       7              Various Commentators on the Missing First Names of 1Kings 4:7–13

         v.       7              On the 12 Officers and 12 Districts (Several Commentators)

         v.       8              The Hill Country of Ephraim (or Mount Ephraim) (Various Commentators)

         v.       9              The Location of the Second District (Several Commentators)

         v.       9              Two Maps of Dan

         v.      10              1Kings 4:10/District 3 (Several Commentators)

         v.      11              Naphath Dor (from Various Commentators)

         v.      11              1Kings 4:11/District 4 (Several Commentators)

         v.      12              Easton on Megiddo

         v.      12              Map of Megiddo

         v.      12              Map of North and Central Israel

         v.      12              1Kings 4:12/District 5 (Several Commentators)

         v.      12              Fausset on Bethshean

         v.      13              Fausset on Ramoth Gilead

         v.      13              Havvoth-Jair (from Several Commentators)

         v.      13              Fausset on Argob

         v.      13              Map of Ramoth Gilead

         v.      13              1Kings 4:13/District 6 (Several Commentators)

         v.      14              Mahanaim by Various Commentators

         v.      14              Nave’s Topical Bible Summarizes the City of Mahanaim

         v.      14              1Kings 4:14/District 7 (Several Commentators)

         v.      14              The Iddo’s of Scripture (from BDB and Nave)

         v.      15              The Ahimaaz’s of Scripture (from Smith’s Dictionary)

         v.      15              Map of Asher, Zebulun and Naphtali

         v.      15              1Kings 4:15/District 8 (Several Commentators)

         v.      16              1Kings 4:16/District 9 (Several Commentators)

         v.      17              1Kings 4:17/District 10 (Several Commentators)

         v.      18              1Kings 4:18/District 11 (Several Commentators)

         v.      19              1Kings 4:19/District 12 (Several Commentators)

         v.      19              Translations of and one officer in the land (1Kings 4:19b)

         v.      19              1Kings 4:19b as explained by various commentators

         v.      19              General Comments on 1Kings 4:7–19 by College Press Bible Study

         v.      19              Miscellaneous Comments on 1Kings 4:7–19 (Various Commentators)

         v.      19              Solomon’s 12 Districts (a Map)

         v.      19              Summarizing 1Kings 4:7–19 by Carpe Scriptura

         v.      19              Solomon’s Underlings (a chart from the Word in Life Study Bible—1997)

         v.      20              The Great Prosperity of Israel; Commentators on 1Kings 4:20

         v.      20              A National Crisis

         v.      20              Where is God in the Constitution? By David W. New, Esq.

         v.      20              Moving 1Kings 4:20–21

         v.      21              The Attainment of Peace and Freedom in a Nation

         v.      21              Commentators on the Extent of Solomon’s Kingdom (1Kings 4:21)

         v.      21              Did David and Solomon Run a Protection Racket? 1Kings 4:21

         v.      21              Solomon’s 4 Spheres of Political Influence (Dr. Thomas Constable)

         v.      21              Psalm 72 (of Solomon)

         v.      22              How much flour is that? Commentators on 1Kings 4:22

         v.      23              The miscellaneous animals prepared (commentators on 1Kings 4:23)

         v.      23              How many people were being fed? Estimates by various commentators.

         v.      23              1Kings 4:23 (a graphic)

         v.      23              The quantities given are similar to other kingdoms (various commentators)

         v.      24              Theories on the Meaning of the Entire Region Beyond the Euphrates River

         v.      24              Tiphsah (from Various Commentators)

         v.      24              Smith on Gaza

         v.      25              Each man under his own vine and his own fig tree (commentators on 1Kings 4:25b)

         v.      25              The utopia that was Israel/Dissatisfaction today in the United States

         v.      25              Income Inequality is the Days of Solomon

         v.      25              Your Economy on Socialism (graphic)

         v.      25              N. L. Frothingham’s Observations of Nation Israel

         v.      25              N. Emmons on Peace in a National Entity

         v.      25              1Kings 4:25 (a graphic)

         v.      26              1001 Cleared Up Contradictions on Solomon’s Number of Horse Stalls

         v.      26              Too Many Stalls (Various Commentators on 1Kings 4:26 and 2Chron. 9:25)

         v.      26              God, Kings of Israel, and Horses (Various Commentators)

         v.      26              Multiplying Horses (Continuing the Conversation)

         v.      26              Deuteronomy 17:16 Israel, Its King, and Its Military (and Its Horses)

         v.      28              Translators on, “Where should the grain and straw be taken?”

         v.      29              Peter Pett’s Chiasmic Organization of 1Kings 4:29–34

         v.      29              The Largeness of Heart (by Many Commentators)

         v.      29              Different Sorts of Intelligence (Observations and Commentators)

         v.      29              Various Commentators on Wisdom like the Sand by the Seashore (1Kings 4:29)

         v.      29              1Kings 4:29 (a graphic)

         v.      29              Sand (by H. Macmillan)

         v.      30              The Wise Men of the East (Various Commentators)

         v.      30              Wisdom Literature from the East

         v.      30              Gary Everett on Wisdom Literature from Egypt

         v.      30              Various Commentators on the Wisdom of Egypt (1Kings 4:30)

         v.      31              Solomon was wiser than all men (Commentators on 1Kings 4:31)

         v.      31              Gary Everett: Wise Men and Government

         v.      31              The Ethan’s of Scripture (Smith, Kukis)

         v.      31              Ethan and Heman’s Origins

         v.      31              The names Ethan, Heman, Calcol and Darda

         v.      31              The Four Wise Men (Various Commentators)

         v.      31              Losing Wisdom (What went wrong?)

         v.      32              1Kings 4:32a (a graphic)

         v.      32              The Evolution of Human Authorship in the Bible

         v.      33              When is a hyssop not a hyssop? (By various commentators)

         v.      33              Of Cedar and Hyssop (Many Commentators on 1Kings 4:33a)

         v.      33              Solomon and Plant Life (from the Homiletic Quarterly)

         v.      33              Cyrus, the Royal Horticulturist (The Bible Illustrator)

         v.      33              Solomon’s Knowledge of Natural History (by Many Commentators)

         v.      33              Solomon Combines Nature and Spiritual Information

         v.      33              Dr. Robert S. Rayburn on the Worldview of the Christian

         v.      34              Wars in the World April 2016 (a map)

         v.      34              Summing up 1Kings 4:32–34 (Various Commentators)

         v.      34              Categories of the Wisdom of Solomon

         v.      34              1Kings 4:29–34 (a graphic)

         v.      34              Solomon, Israel and Millennial Typology

         v.      34              An Opposing View of Solomon

         Addendum          Why 1Kings 4 is in the Word of God

         Addendum          What We Learn from 1Kings 4

         Addendum          Map of Solomon’s Kingdom and Sphere of Influence

         Addendum          Josephus’ History of this Time Period

         Addendum          Edersheim Summarizes 1Kings 4

         Addendum          A Complete Translation of 1Kings 4

         Addendum          Word Cloud from a Reasonably Literal Paraphrase of 1Kings 4

         Addendum          Word Cloud from Exegesis of 1Kings 4

——————————

An Introduction to 1Kings 4

I ntroduction: 1Kings 4 is quite different from the previous chapters, leaving, for a time, the strict narrative approach of 1Kings 1–3, and painting the kingdom of Solomon with some broad brush strokes, while, simultaneously, giving us the names and locations of important men of that era. This chapter is so different from the chapters around it that, it appears that it was written after Solomon had died by someone who was there, who knew what had happened. It is very likely that this person accessed state records to record all of the information found in this chapter.

This chapter could be easily removed and added to the end of Solomon’s narrative. The author (assuming that this is the same author as the rest of 1Kings 1–11) seems to think that this is a good time to give us an overview of Solomon’s career as king, concentrating upon what was great about his reign. This chapter is at once necessary and well-placed, but, at the same time, it stands out. Obviously, the text of 1Kings 1–3 is a narrative, whereas 1Kings 4 is somewhat of a summary or overview chapter. We return to narrative in 1Kings 5 and to the end of chapter 11. Most of 1Kings 1–11 appears to be recorded by Solomon or by someone who actually lived at that time. It seemed to have been written soon after the events took place. However, 1Kings 4 stands out as something perhaps written long after the fact, perhaps by someone who lived through this wonderful time, did not fully appreciate how wonderful it was, and then, living in the chaos of the split kingdom, looks wistfully back (but without making it appear to be a backwards look. That is, we do not find the words, “Let me tell you what it was like under Solomon the king.” If this is a wistful look back, we can, at most, infer that from the text.

One possible explanation is, the history of Solomon is recorded from 3 different sources. We have the beginning of his kingship, in 1Kings 1–3, the summation of his successful reign as king in 1Kings 4, followed by the building of the Temple of God. This could reflect 3 sources right here, and they are simply thrown together.

Lange on the placement of 1Kings 4: [T]he author possessed of enough understanding not to take what he found in good order, in his documentary sources, tear it apart, weave it together, and render the whole without connection. In chaps, 1–3 he related how Solomon’s kingdom became established and respected; in chap. 4 he tells how it was constituted, and in what a well-ordered and flourishing condition it was.

The College Press Bible Study: At the outset of his reign, Solomon received a special endowment from God that enabled him to wisely govern the vast empire which he had inherited from his father. The author of Kings focuses attention on the administrative structure of the empire because that structure was a manifestation and proof of the divine wisdom which God had granted to Solomon.

The first 19 verses give us an overview of the great administration of Israel under Solomon, with the names of his chief officers and their respective duties. The government of Israel was highly organized and well-run; and the excellence of this administration is so great, as to preserve the names of these presiding officers and governors for all eternity in the pages of Scripture.

The blessing of God and the great prosperity of Israel is attested to in 1Kings 4:20–28.

We close with a section dedicated to the wisdom of Solomon, whose wisdom was legendary in its time; which testimony stands even today in the Living Word of God.

There is some discussion which suggests that 1Kings 4 came from two sources woven together. I did not find any of the arguments compelling or the theory to be even interesting. Someone wrote it—perhaps they used resource material—but we have no idea as to the specifics based upon the text that we have. Lange is one who discusses this, if you feel a need to explore this idea.

Jacob Gerber: The description of Solomon’s kingdom in 1Kings 4 is overwhelming, with unending officials (1 Kgs. 4:1–19), wealth (1 Kgs. 4:20–28), and cultural achievements (1 Kgs. 4:29–34). It is staggering to imagine living in such a golden age of human flourishing, with seemingly limitless justice, peace, and prosperity. We cannot understand the glory of Solomon’s kingdom, however, without understanding the covenant Yahweh swore to David back in 2Samuel 7. There, Yahweh said, “When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son” (2 Sam. 7:12–14). This promise forms the foundation of Solomon’s reign over Israel.

Although Solomon is a partial fulfillment of God’s promise to Adam and Eve at the fall; and to David in the Davidic Covenant; he and his kingdom point toward (are types of) the True Seed of David, the Seed of the Woman, the Lord Jesus Christ. This doctrine will be expanded upon at the end of this chapter.

Interestingly enough, when I first began writing, I had very little interest when it came to chapters filled with names; and now, 20 years later, I find these chapters to be quite interesting.

——————————

Solomon's Officials

Solomon’s Cabinet (vv. 1–6)

Matthew Henry sums up the first 19 verses: In the choice of the great officers of Solomon's court, no doubt, his wisdom appeared. Several are the same that were in his father's time. A plan was settled by which no part of the country was exhausted to supply his court, though each sent its portion.

Peter Pett summarizes the first 6 verses: Azariah, the son of Zadok, was probably the prime minister (described under the ancient Canaanite title of ‘cohen’) with Elihoreph and Ahijah being the two secretaries of state, Jehoshaphat being the Chancellor, Benaiah being the commander–in–chief of the armies of Israel, Zadok and Abiathar still being High Priests (a position the status of which was for life even though Abiathar’s authority to act may have been removed), Azariah the son of Nathan (probably the Nathan who was the son of David) being the superintendent of the district officers, Zabud the son of Nathan being the king’s chief adviser (his ‘friend’) and also designated by the ancient title of ‘cohen’, thus possibly being also a priestly intercessor (compare how the king’s sons had been ‘priests’ in 2Sam. 8:18), Abishar being over the king’s household, and Adoniram being over the forcibly enlisted labour.

The only problem with his analysis here is possibly his interpretation of the title priest, which will be discussed at length in this examination.

Vv. 1–6 are the primary officers associated with Solomon’s court; and vv. 7–19 are his commanders out in the field (that is, stationed throughout Israel).

Now, as an aside, I think that there might be a very clever organization to this chapter, but I cannot figure out what it is. Both vv. 20 and 29 speak of the sand of the sea, but I cannot pull anything more together than that. The only reason that I think this is significant is, v. 20 does not really exploit this sort of thing as it usually does (where two examples of a great number are generally given) and v. 29 uses this illustration for a very odd thing (the amount of wisdom that Solomon had). These two instances may be a little odd for another reason, rather than an organizational one.

When studying and writing about a chapter, things occasionally strike me, and I mull over these things every time that I return to them (I pass through each verse or passage at least 10 times; and usually much more than that). Sometimes I come across something like this, and I think, there is more to this than I am getting.

Here is how others have translated this verse:

Ancient texts:                       Note: I compare the Hebrew text to English translations of the Latin, Syriac (= Aramaic) and Greek texts, using the Douay-Rheims translation ; George Lamsa’s translation, and Sir Lancelot Charles Lee Brenton’s translation as revised and edited by Paul W. Esposito, respectively. I often update these texts with non-substantive changes (e.g., you for thou, etc.). I often use the text of the Complete Apostles’ Bible instead of Brenton’s translation, because it updates the English text.

The Septuagint was the earliest known translation of a book (circa 200 b.c.). Since this translation was made before the textual criticism had been developed into a science and because different books appear to be translated by different men, the Greek translation can sometimes be very uneven.

When there are serious disparities between my translation and Brenton’s (or the text of the Complete Apostles’ Bible), I look at the Greek text of the Septuagint (the LXX) to see if a substantive difference actually exists (and I reflect these changes in the English rendering of the Greek text). I use the Greek LXX with Strong’s numbers and morphology available for e-sword. The only problem with this resource (which is a problem for similar resources) is, there is no way to further explore Greek verbs which are not found in the New Testament. Although I usually quote the Complete Apostles’ Bible here, I have begun to make changes in the translation when their translation conflicts with the Greek and note what those changes are.

The Masoretic text is the Hebrew text with all of the vowels (vowel points) inserted (the original Hebrew text lacked vowels). We take the Masoretic text to be the text closest to the original. However, differences between the Masoretic text and the Greek, Latin and Syriac are worth noting and, once in a great while, represent a more accurate text possessed by those other ancient translators.

In general, the Latin text is an outstanding translation from the Hebrew text into Latin and very trustworthy (I say this as a non-Catholic). Unfortunately, I do not read Latin—apart from some very obvious words—so I am dependent upon the English translation of the Latin (principally, the Douay-Rheims translation).

Underlined words indicate differences in the text.

Bracketed portions of the Dead Sea Scrolls are words, letters and phrases lost in the scroll due to various types of damage. Underlined words or phrases are those in the Dead Sea Scrolls but not in the Masoretic text.

I will only list the translation from the Dead Sea Scrolls if it exists and if it is different from the Masoretic text.

Ancient texts:

Masoretic Text (Hebrew)        And so is the King Solomon king over all Israel; and these [are] the officials who [are] to him: Azariah ben Zadok [is] the priest; Elihoreph and Elijah beni Shisha [are] scribes; Jehoshaphat ben Ahilud [is] the [official] historian; and Benaiah ben Jehoiada [is] over the army; and Zadok and Abiathar [are] priests; and Azariah ben Nathan [is] over the ones standing; and Zabud ben Nathan [is] a priest, [and] an associate of the king; and Ahishar [is] over the house; and Adoniram ben Abda [is] over the tribute.

Revised Douay-Rheims         And king Solomon reigned over all Israel:

And these were the princes which he had: Azarias the son of Sadoc the priest:

Elihoreph, and Ahia, the sons of Sisa, scribes: Josaphat the son of Ahilud, recorder:

Banaias the son of Joiada, over the army: and Sadoc and Abiathar priests.

Azarias the son of Nathan, over them that were about the king: Zabud, the son of Nathan the priest, the king's friend:

And Ahisar governor of the house: and Adoniram the son of Abda over the tribute.

Peshitta (Syriac)                    So Solomon was king over all Israel. And these were the princes whom he had: Azariah the son of Zadok the priest; Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder. And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the army; and Zadok and Abiathar were priests; And Azariah the son of Nathan was over the governors; and Zabur, the son of Nathan, the priest, was the kings friend; And Abinshar was over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the tribute.

Septuagint (Greek)                And king Solomon reigned over Israel.

And these are the princes which he had; Azarias son of Sadoc. Eliaph, and Achia son of Seba, scribes; and Josaphat son of Achilud, recorder. And Banaeas son of Jodae over the host; and Sadoc and Abiathar were priests. And Ornia the son of Nathan was over the officers; and Zabuth son of Nathan was the king’s friend. And Achisar was steward, and Eliac the chief steward; and Eliab the son of Saph was over the family: and Adoniram the son of Audon over the tribute.

Significant differences:           The Greek does not call Zabud a priest. The Greek also include 2 bonus people and bonus positions.

Limited Vocabulary Translations:

Bible in Basic English             Now Solomon was king over all Israel. And these were his chief men:

Azariah, the son of Zadok, was the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were scribes; Jehoshaphat, the son of Ahilud, was the recorder;

Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, was head of the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests;

Azariah, the son of Nathan, was over those in authority in the different divisions of the country; Zabud, the son of Nathan, was priest and the king's friend;

Ahishar was controller of the king's house; Adoniram, the son of Abda, was overseer of the forced work.

Easy English                          Solomon’s government

So King Solomon was the king of all Israel.

And these were his important officers:

Azariah, (who was) the son of Zadok. Zadok (was an important) priest.

Elihoreph and Ahijah. They were the sons of Shisha. They wrote down (what happened).

Jehoshaphat, (who was) the son of Ahilud. (Jehoshaphat) told people (what Solomon wanted).

Benaiah, (who was) the son of Jehoiada. (Benaiah was) the leader of the army.

Zadok and Abiathar (were) priests.

Azariah, (who was) the son of Nathan. He told the 12 officers (in verse 7) what to do.

Zabud, (who was also) a son of Nathan. (Zabud was) a priest and he was a friend of the king.

Ahishar, (who) kept (the king’s) houses and fields well.

Adoniram, (who was) the son of Abda. (Adoniram) told the workers (what they should do).

Easy-to-Read Version–2008  Solomon’s Kingdom

King Solomon ruled over all Israel. These are the names of his leading officials:

Azariah son of Zadok was the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, had the job of writing notes about what happened in the courts;

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud wrote notes about the history of the people;

Benaiah son of Jehoiada was the commander of the army;

Zadok and Abiathar were priests;

Azariah son of Nathan was in charge of the district governors;

Zabud son of Nathan was a priest and an advisor to King Solomon;

Ahishar was responsible for everything in the king’s palace;

Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of the slaves.

Good News Bible (TEV)         Solomon's Officials

Solomon was king of all Israel, 2 and these were his high officials:

The priest: Azariah son of Zadok

The court secretaries: Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha

In charge of the records: Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud

Commander of the army: Benaiah son of Jehoiada

Priests: Zadok and Abiathar

Chief of the district governors: Azariah son of Nathan

Royal Adviser: the priest Zabud son of Nathan

In charge of the palace servants: Ahishar

In charge of the forced labor: Adoniram son of Abda.

The Message                         King Solomon was off to a good start ruling Israel.

These were the leaders in his government:

Azariah son of Zadok—the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha—secretaries;

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud—historian;

Benaiah son of Jehoiada—commander of the army;

Zadok and Abiathar—priests;

Azariah son of Nathan—in charge of the regional managers;

Zabud son of Nathan—priest and friend to the king;

Ahishar—manager of the palace;

Adoniram son of Abda—manager of the slave labor.

Names of God Bible               Solomon’s Administration

When King Solomon was the king of all Israel, 2 these were his officials:

Azariah, son of Zadok, was the chief priest.

Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were scribes.

Jehoshaphat, son of Ahilud, was the royal historian.

Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, was commander of the army.

Zadok and Abiathar were priests.

Azariah, son of Nathan, was in charge of the district governors.

Zabud, son of Nathan, was the king’s adviser.

Ahishar was in charge of the palace.

Adoniram, son of Abda, was in charge of forced labor.

NIRV                                      Solomon’s Officials and Governors

So King Solomon ruled over the whole nation of Israel.

Here are the names of his chief officials.

Azariah was the priest. He was the son of Zadok.

Elihoreph and Ahijah were secretaries. They were the sons of Shisha.

Jehoshaphat kept the records. He was the son of Ahilud.

Benaiah was the commander in chief. He was the son of Jehoiada.

Zadok and Abiathar were priests.

Azariah was in charge of the local governors. He was the son of Nathan.

Zabud was a priest. He was also the king’s adviser. He was the son of Nathan.

Ahishar was in charge of the palace.

Adoniram was in charge of those who were forced to work for the king. He was the son of Abda.

New Simplified Bible              Solomon was king over all Israel. His high officials were as follows: The priest: Azariah son of Zadok, the court secretaries: Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha In charge of the records: Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud. Commander of the army: Benaiah son of Jehoiada. Priests: Zadok and Abiathar. Chief of the district governors: Azariah son of Nathan Royal Adviser: the priest Zabud son of Nathan. In charge of the palace servants: Ahishar In charge of the forced labor: Adoniram son of Abda.

Thought-for-thought translations; paraphrases:

Common English Bible           Solomon’s administration

King Solomon became king of all Israel.

These were his officials: the priest Azariah, Zadok’s son; the scribes Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha; Jehoshaphat, the recorder, Ahilud’s son; the general Benaiah, Jehoiada’s son; the priests Zadok and Abiathar; Azariah, Nathan’s son, who was in charge of the officials; Zabud, Nathan’s son, a priest and royal friend; Ahishar, who was in charge of the palace; and Adoniram, Abda’s son, who was supervisor of the work gangs.

Contemporary English V.       Here is a list of Solomon's highest officials while he was king of Israel: Azariah son of Zadok was the priest; Elihoreph and Ahijah sons of Shisha were the secretaries; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud kept the government records; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was the army commander; Zadok and Abiathar were priests; Azariah son of Nathan was in charge of the regional officers; Zabud son of Nathan was a priest and the king's advisor; Ahishar was the prime minister; Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of the forced labor.

The Living Bible                     Here is a list of King Solomon’s cabinet members:

Azariah (son of Zadok) was the High Priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah (sons of Shisha) were secretaries;

Jehoshaphat (son of Ahilud) was the official historian and in charge of the archives;

Benaiah (son of Jehoiada) was commander-in-chief of the army;

Zadok and Abiathar were priests;

Azariah (son of Nathan) was secretary of state;

Zabud (son of Nathan) was the king’s personal priest and special friend;

Ahishar was manager of palace affairs;

Adoniram (son of Abda) was superintendent of public works.

New Berkeley Version           King Solomon was king over all Israel. These were his leading men: Azariah the son of Zadok was the priest [The high priest]; Elihoreph and Abijab the sons of Shisha were scribes; Jehoshphat the son of Ahulud was the recorder; Benaih the son of Jehoaiadah was in charge of the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests; Azariah the son of Nathan was in charge of the officials; Zabud the son of Nathan was a priest and a friend of the king; Ahishar was in charge of the house; and Adoniram the son of Abda was in charge of conscript labor.

New Century Version             Solomon’s Officers

King Solomon ruled over all Israel. These are the names of his leading officers:

Azariah son of Zadok was the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, recorded what happened in the courts;

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud recorded the history of the people;

Benaiah son of Jehoiada was commander of the army;

Zadok and Abiathar were priests;

Azariah son of Nathan was in charge of the district governors;

Zabud son of Nathan was a priest and adviser to the king;

Ahishar was responsible for everything in the palace;

Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of the labor force.

New Life Version                    Now King Solomon was the king of all Israel. These were the king's men. Azariah the son of Zadok was the religious leader. Shisha's sons Elihoreph and Ahijah were the heads of meetings. Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was the one who wrote down the things of the nation. Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was captain of the army. Zadok and Abiathar were religious leaders. Azariah the son of Nathan was over the leaders. Zabud the son of Nathan was a religious leader and the king's friend. Ahishar was head of the king's house. And Adoniram the son of Abda was head of the men who were made to work.

New Living Translation           Solomon’s Officials and Governors

King Solomon now ruled over all Israel, and these were his high officials:

Azariah son of Zadok was the priest.

Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were court secretaries.

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the royal historian.

Benaiah son of Jehoiada was commander of the army.

Zadok and Abiathar were priests.

Azariah son of Nathan was in charge of the district governors.

Zabud son of Nathan, a priest, was a trusted adviser to the king.

Ahishar was manager of the palace property.

Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of forced labor.

Partially literal and partially paraphrased translations:

American English Bible          Back when King Solomon was reigning in IsraEl, these are the men who were with him and who were in charge:

· AzariAh (the son of ZaDok) was the [High] Priest

· EliAm and AhiJah (the sons of Saba) were his scribes

· JehoShaphat (the son AchiLud) was the recorder

· BenaiJah (the son of JehoiAda) was the commander-in-chief of the army

· ZaDok and AbiAthar were the Priests

· AzariAh (the son of Nathan) directed his staff

· ZaboUth (the son of Nathan) was the king's right-hand man

· AciSar was his manager

· EliAb (the son of Saph) was over his family

· AdoniRam (the son of AphDon) was in charge of the tributes.

Beck’s American Translation Solomon’s Government

King Solomon ruled all Israel. These were his high officials: Azariah son of Zadok was the priest, and Elihoreph and Ahijah, Shisha’s sons, were the chief secretaries. Jehoshaphat, Ahulud’s son, was the recorder. Benaiah, Jehoiada’s son, was in commanded of the army. Zadok and Abiathar were the chief priests. Azariah, Nathan’s son, was in charge of the local governors. Zabud, Nathan’s son, was the private priest of the king. Ahishar was in charge of the palace. And Adoniram, Abda’s son, was in charge of the forced labor.

International Standard V        Solomon’s Administration

And so King Solomon ruled over all of Israel. Here’s a list of his officials: Zadok’s son Azariah was priest, Shisha’s sons Elihoreph and Ahijah were his secretaries, Ahilud’s son Jehoshaphat was recorder, Jehoiada’s son Benaiah commanded the army, Zadok and Abiathar served as priests, Nathan’s son Azariah supervised the governors, Nathan’s son Zabud the priest was the king’s counselor, Ahishar supervised palace matters, and Abda’s son Adoniram supervised conscripted labor.

New Advent (Knox) Bible       All the tribes of Israel were under king Solomon’s rule. These are the names of his ministers; Azarias, son of the priest Sadoc, and the two sons of Sisa, Elihoreph and Ahia, were secretaries; Josaphat, son of Ahilud, kept the records; Banaias, son of Joiada, commanded the army; Sadoc and Abiathar were the chief priests; Azarias, son of Nathan, was head of the royal prefects; Zabud, son of Nathan, a priest, was the king’s privy counsellor; Ahisar was controller of the household, and Adoniram, son of Abda, controller of the revenues.

Today’s NIV                          Solomon’s Officials and Governors

So King Solomon ruled over all Israel. And

these were his chief officials:

Azariah son of Zadok—the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha—secretaries;

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud—recorder;

Benaiah son of Jehoiada—commander in chief;

Zadok and Abiathar—priests;

Azariah son of Nathan—in charge of the district governors;

Zabud son of Nathan—a priest and adviser to the king;

Ahishar—palace administrator;

Adoniram son of Abda—in charge of forced labor.

Translation for Translators                                 Solomon's governors and officials

Solomon was the king who ruled all of Israel, and these were his most important officials:

Zadok's son Azariah was the priest.

Shisha's sons Elihoreph and Ahijah were the official secretaries.

Ahilud's son Jehoshaphat was the one who announced to the people the king's decisions.

Benaiah was the army commander.

Zadok and Abiathar were also priests.

Nathan's son Azariah was the boss of the governors.

Another of Nathan's sons, Zabud, was a priest and the king's chief advisor.

Ahishar supervised the servants who worked in the palace.

Abda's son Adoniram supervised the men who were forced to do work for the government.

Mostly literal renderings (with some occasional paraphrasing):

Ferrar-Fenton Bible                (b.c. 1014) Solomon appoints his Ministers

Salomon appoints his Ministers. Thus Solomon became king over all Israel. And these were his Princes: Azariah-ben-Zadok, the Priest; Alikheraf, and Akhiah, sons of Shisha, were Chancellors; Jhoshafat-ben-Akhiud, was the Recorder-; And Beniah-ben-jhoiadah, was over the army; And Zadok and Abiathar were Priests. And Azariah-ben-Nathan was Superintendent of the Governors; And Akhishur was Superintendent of the Palace; And Adoniram-ben-Abda, Superintendent of the Taxes.

God’s Truth (Tyndale)           And so king Salomon was king over all Israel. And these were his Lords: Azariah the son of Sadock the priest: Elihoreph and Ahiah the sons of Sisa, scribes. Jehosaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder. And Banaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Host. And Sadock and Abiathar were the priests. And Azariah the son of Nathan was over the general receivers. And Zabud the son of Nathan was a waiter and the kings companion. And Ahisar the steward of household: And Adiran the son of Abda over the tribute.

HCSB                                     Solomon’s Officials

King Solomon ruled over Israel, 2 and these were his officials:

Azariah son of Zadok, priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah the sons of Shisha, secretaries;

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud, court historian;

Benaiah son of Jehoiada, in charge of the army;

Zadok and Abiathar, priests;

Azariah son of Nathan, in charge of the deputies;

Zabud son of Nathan, a priest and adviser to the king;

Ahishar, in charge of the palace;

and Adoniram son of Abda, in charge of forced labor.

Jubilee Bible 2000                  So king Solomon was king over all Israel. And these were the princes which he had: Azariah, the son of Zadok, the priest, Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes, Jehoshaphat, the son of Ahilud, writer of the chronicles; Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, was over the host; and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests; Azariah, the son of Nathan, was over the officers; and Zabud, the son of Nathan, was the priest and special companion of the king; and Ahishar was over the household; and Adoniram, the son of Abda, was over the tribute.

Lexham English Bible            Solomon’s Wisdom: Political Administration

King Solomon was king over all Israel. Now these are the officials who were his: Azariah the son of Zadok [was] the priest. Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, [were] the secretaries; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud [was] the recorder. Benaiah the son of Jehoiada [was] over the army, and Zadok and Abiathar were priests. Azariah the son of Nathan [was] over the governors, and Zabud the son of Nathan was a priest, an advisor to the king. Ahishar [was] over the palace, and Adoniram the son of Abda [was] over the forced labor.

NIV – UK                                Solomon’s officials and governors

So King Solomon ruled over all Israel. 2 And these were his chief officials:

Azariah son of Zadok – the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha – secretaries;

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud – recorder;

Benaiah son of Jehoiada – commander-in-chief;

Zadok and Abiathar – priests;

Azariah son of Nathan – in charge of the district governors;

Zabud son of Nathan – a priest and advisor to the king;

Ahishar – palace administrator;

Adoniram son of Abda – in charge of forced labour.

Tree of Life Version                Solomon’s Official Staff

Now King Solomon reigned over all Israel, and these were his officials: Azariah son of Zadok, the kohen; Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud, the recorder; Benaiah son of Jehoiada, in charge of the army; Zadok and Abiathar, kohanim; Azariah son of Nathan, in charge of the officers; Zabud son of Nathan the kohen, the king’s personal attendant; Ahishar, in charge of the household; Adoniram son of Abda in charge of the forced labor.

Catholic Bibles (those having the imprimatur):

Christian Community (1988)  Solomon’s grandeur

King Solomon was king over all Israel

and had the following for his high officials: Azariah, son of Zadok, was the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, were secretaries; Jehoshaphat, son of Ahilud, was recorder;

Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, was general of the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests;

Aza riah, son of Nathan, was head of the officers; Zabud, son of Nathan, was priest and the king’s personal adviser;

Abishar was in charge of the palace; and Ado niram, son of Abda was in charge of forced labor.

The Heritage Bible                 And King Solomon was king over all Israel. And these were the chief rulers who were to him: Azariah, the son of Zadok, the priest, Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat, the son of Ahilud, the scribe. And Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada was over the host, and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests; And Azariah, the son of Nathan, was over those standing over others, and Zabud, the son of Nathan was the priest and friend of the king; And Ahishar was over the house, and Adoniram, the son of Abda, was over the forced labor.

New American Bible (2002)   Solomon was king over all Israel,

and these were the officials he had in his service: Azariah, son of Zadok, priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat, son of Ahilud, chancellor;

(Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, commander of the army; Zadok and Abiathar, priests;)

Azariah, son of Nathan, chief of the commissaries; Zabud, son of Nathan, companion to the king;

Ahishar, major-domo of the palace; and Adoniram, son of Abda, superintendent of the forced labor.

New American Bible (2011)   Solomon’s Riches: Domestic Affairs.*

Solomon was king over all Israel,

and these were the officials he had in his service:

Azariah, son of Zadok, the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, scribes;

Jehoshaphat, son of Ahilud, the chancellor;

Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, in charge of the army;

Zadok and Abiathar, priests;

Azariah, son of Nathan, in charge of the governors;

Zabud, son of Nathan, priest and companion to the king;

Ahishar, master of the palace; and

Adoniram, son of Abda, in charge of the forced labor.

New Jerusalem Bible             King Solomon was king of all Israel,

and these were his high officials: Azariah son of Zadok, priest;

Elihaph and Ahijah sons of Shisha, secretaries; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud, herald.

(Benaiah son of Jehoiada, commander of the army. Zadok and Abiathar, priests);

Azariah son of Nathan, chief administrator; Zabud son of Nathan, Friend of the King;

Ahishar, master of the palace; Eliab son of Joab, commander of the army; Adoram son of Abda, in charge of forced labour.

Revised English Bible            KING Solomon reigned over Israel.

His officers were as follows: In charge of the calendar: Azariah son of Zadok the priest.

Adjutant-general: Ahijah son of Shisha. Secretary of state: Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud.

Commander of the army: Benaiah son of Jehoiada. Priests: Zadok and Abiathar.

Superintendent of the regional governors: Azariah son of Nathan. King's Friend: Zabud son of Nathan.

Comptroller of the household: Ahishar. Superintendent of the forced levy: Adoniram son of Abda.

Jewish/Hebrew Names Bibles:

Complete Jewish Bible           King Shlomo was king over all Isra'el, and these were his high officials: 'Azaryah the son of Tzadok, the cohen; Elichoref and Achiyah the sons of Shisha, secretaries; Y'hoshafat the son of Achilud, secretary of state; B'nayah the son of Y'hoyada, commander of the army; Tzadok and Evyatar, cohanim; 'Azaryah the son of Natan, chief administrator; Zavud the son of Natan, the king's trusted counselor; Achishar, in charge of the palace; Adoniram the son of 'Avda, in charge of forced labor.

exeGeses companion Bible   THE GOVERNORS OF SHELOMOH

So king Solomon sovereign Shelomoh

was king sovereign over all Israel Yisra El .

And these were the princes governors which he had;

Azariah Azar Yah the son of Zadok Sadoq the priest,

Elihoreph Eli Horeph and Ahiah Achiy Yah ,

the sons of Shisha, scribes;

Jehoshaphat Yah Shaphat the son of Ahilud Achiy Lud ,

the recorder remembrancer .

And Benaiah Bena Yah the son of Jehoiada Yah Yada

was over the host:

and Zadok Sadoq and Abiathar Abi Athar were the priests:

And Azariah Azar Yah the son of Nathan

was over the officers stationed :

and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer priest ,

and the king's sovereign's friend:

And Ahishar Achiy Shar was over the household:

and Adoniram Adoni Ram the son of Abda

was over the tribute vassal .

JPS (Tanakh—1985)               King Solomon was now king over all Israel. These were his officials:

Azariah son of Zadok—the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah sons of Shisha—scribes;

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud—recorder;

Benaiah son of Jehoiada—over the army;

Zadok and Abiathar—priests;

Azariah son of Nathan—in charge of the prefects;

Zabud son of Nathan the priest—companion of the king;

Ahishar—in charge of the palace; and

Adoniram son of Abda—in charge of the forced labor.

Orthodox Jewish Bible           So HaMelech Sh’lomo was Melech over kol Yisrael.

And these were the sarim which he had; Azaryah Ben Tzadok HaKohen,

Elichoreph and Achiyah, the Bnei Shisha, Sofrim (scribes); Yehoshaphat Ben Achilud, the Mazkir (secretary).

And Benayah Ben Yehoyada was over the Tzava (army); and Tzadok and Evyatar (Abiathar) were the Kohanim;

And Azaryah Ben Natan was over the Nitzavim (commissioners) and Zavud Ben Natan kohen re’eh HaMelech;

And Achishar was over the Bais (palace); and Adoniram Ben Avda was over the forced labor.

The Scriptures 1998              And it came to be that Sovereign Shelomoh was sovereign over all Yisra’ĕl.

And these were his chief officials: Azaryahu son of Tsad?oq, the priest;

Eliḥoreph and Aḥiyah, sons of Shisha, scribes; Yehoshaphat son of Aḥilud?, the recorder;

and Benayahu son of Yehoyad?a, over the army; and Tsad?oq and Eb?yathar, the priests;

and Azaryahu son of Nathan, over the officers; Zab?ud? son of Nathan, a priest, friend of the sovereign;

and Aḥishar, over the household; and Ad?oniram son of Ab?da, over the compulsory labour.

Expanded/Embellished Bibles:

The Amplified Bible                Solomon’s Officials

King Solomon was king over all [the people of] Israel. These were his [chief] officials: Azariah the son [Here as in other passages, the Hebrew word son may refer to a grandson or more distant descendant, just as father is also used of grandfathers and other ancestors.] of Zadok was the high priest; Elihoreph and Ahijah the sons of Shisha, were scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was the recorder [of important events]; Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was in command of the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests; Azariah the son of Nathan was in charge of the deputies; Zabud the son of Nathan was priest and was the king’s friend [and trusted advisor]; Ahishar was in charge of the household (palace); and Adoniram the son of Abda was in charge of the forced labor.

The Expanded Bible              Solomon’s Officers

King Solomon ·ruled [was king] over all Israel. These are the names of his ·leading officers [chief officials]:

Azariah son of Zadok was the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, ·recorded what happened in the courts [were court secretaries];

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud ·recorded the history of the people [was recorder/royal historian];

Benaiah son of Jehoiada was commander of the army;

Zadok and Abiathar were priests;

Azariah son of Nathan was in charge of the district governors;

Zabud son of Nathan was a priest and ·adviser [^Lfriend] to the king;

Ahishar was ·responsible for everything in the palace [manager of the household];

Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of ·the labor force [or forced labor].

The Geneva Bible                  So king Solomon was king over all Israel. And these were the princes [that is, his chief officers. ] which he had; Azariah [He was the son of Achimais and Zadoks nephew.] the son of Zadok the priest, Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder. And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the host: and Zadok and Abiathar [Not Abiathar whom Solomon had put from his office, ( 1Kings 2:27 ) but another of that name.] were the priests: And Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers: and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer, and the king's friend: And Ahishar was over the household: and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the tribute.

Kretzmann’s Commentary    Verses 1-19

The Chief officers

So King Solomon was king over all Israel, having come into the full inheritance of his father David.

And these were the princes, the dignitaries, the chief officers and commanders, which he had: Azariah, the son of Zadok, the priest; he held the first place among the most trusted counselors of the king;

Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes, the highest civil officers, secretaries of state; Jehoshaphat, the son of Ahilud, the recorder, chancellor, 2Sam. 8:16; 2Sam. 20:24.

And Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, was over the host, 1Kings 2:35; and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests, the latter, although deposed, still bearing the title, as in the New Testament;

and Azariah, the son of Nathan, was over the officers, those whose names are given below; and Zabud, the son of Nathan, was principal officer and the king's friend, his confidential adviser, these two being nephews of the king;

and Ahishar was over the household, master of the entire palace, having charge of the entire household; and Adoniram, the son of Abda, was over the tribute, overseer of the public works, 2Sam. 20:24.

NET Bible®                             Solomon’s Royal Court and Administrators

King Solomon ruled over all Israel. These were his officials:

Azariah son of Zadok was the priest.

Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, wrote down what happened.

Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was in charge of the records.

Benaiah son of Jehoiada was commander of [Heb “was over.”] the army.

Zadok and Abiathar were priests.

Azariah son of Nathan was supervisor of [Heb “was over.”] the district governors.

Zabud son of Nathan was a priest and adviser to [Heb “close associate of”; KJV, ASV, NASB “the king’s friend” (a title for an adviser, not just an acquaintance).] the king.

Ahishar was supervisor of the palace [Heb “over the house.”].

Adoniram son of Abda was supervisor of [Heb “was over.”] the work crews.

The Voice                               King Solomon reigned over Israel, and these are the men who helped him do so. The following were his officers and administrators: The priest was Azariah (Zadok’s son); the secretaries were Elihoreph and Ahijah (Shisha’s sons); the recorder was Jehoshaphat (Ahilud’s son); the commander of the army was Benaiah (Jehoiada’s son); the priests were Zadok and Abiathar; the commander of all the administrators was Azariah (Nathan’s son); the king’s confidant and priest was Zabud (Nathan’s son); the household manager was Ahishar; the commander of the compulsory labor force was Adoniram (Abda’s son).

Literal, almost word-for-word, renderings:

Concordant Literal Version    And king Solomon is king over all Israel,

and these [are] the heads whom he has:Azariah son of Zadok [is] the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahiah sons of Shisha [are] scribes; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud [is] remembrancer;

and Benaiah son of Jehoiada [is] over the host; and Zadok and Abiathar [are] priests;

and Azariah son of Nathan [is] over the officers; and Zabud son of Nathan [is] minister, friend of the king;"

And Ahishar [is] over the household, and Adoniram son of Abda [is] over the tribute.

Context Group Version          And king Solomon was king over all Israel.

And these were the princes whom he had: Azariah the son of Zadok, the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder;

and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the army; and Zadok and Abiathar were priests;

and Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers; and Zabud the son of Nathan was chief ruler, [ and ] the king's confidant;

and Ahishar was over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the men subject to slave labor.

Emphasized Bible                  And so it came to pass, that, King Solomon, was king, over all Israel.

Now, these, were his chief officers of state,—Azariah son of Zadok, the priest;

Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, scribes,—Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud, the recorder;

And Benaiah son of Jehoiada, over the army,—and Zadok and Abiathar priests;

And Azariah son of Nathan, over the governors,—and Zabud son of Nathan, minister, king’s friend;

And Ahishar, over the household,—and Adoniram son of Abda, over the tribute.

English Standard V. – UK       Solomon's Officials

King Solomon was king over all Israel, and these were his high officials: Azariah the son of Zadok was the priest; Elihoreph and Ahijah the sons of Shisha were secretaries; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder; Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was in command of the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests; Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers; Zabud the son of Nathan was priest and king's friend; Ahishar was in charge of the palace; and Adoniram the son of Abda was in charge of the forced labour.

Modern English Version         The Court of Solomon

So King Solomon was king over all Israel. These were the officials in his court:

Azariah the son of Zadok was the priest.

Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were secretaries.

Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was the recorder;

Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the army.

Zadok and Abiathar were priests.

Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers,

and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer and the king’s friend.

Ahishar was over the household,

and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the forced labor.

NASB                                     Solomon’s Officials

Now King Solomon was king over all Israel. These were his officials: Azariah the son of Zadok was the priest; Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha were secretaries; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was the recorder; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the army; and Zadok and Abiathar were priests; and Azariah the son of Nathan was over the deputies; and Zabud the son of Nathan, a priest, was the king’s friend; and Ahishar was over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the men subject to forced labor.

New European Version          The Administration of Solomon’s Kingdom

King Solomon was king over all Israel. These were the princes whom he had: Azariah the son of Zadok, the priest; Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder; Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests; Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers; Zabud the son of Nathan was chief officer, the king’s friend; Ahishar was over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the men subject to forced labour.

New King James Version       Solomon’s Administration

So King Solomon was king over all Israel. And these were his officials: Azariah the son of Zadok, the priest; Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder; Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, over the army; Zadok and Abiathar, the priests; Azariah the son of Nathan, over the officers; Zabud the son of Nathan, a priest and the king’s friend; Ahishar, over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda, over the labor force.

Third Millennium Bible            So King Solomon was king over all Israel. And these were the princes whom he had: Azariah the son of Zadok, the priest; Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the host; and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests; and Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers; and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer and the king's friend; and Ahishar was over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the tribute.

Young’s Updated LT             And king Solomon is king over all Israel, and these are the heads whom he has: Azariah son of Zadok is the priest; Elihoreph and Ahiah sons of Shisha are scribes; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud is remembrancer; and Benaiah son of Jehoiada is over the host; and Zadok and Abiathar are priests; and Azariah son of Nathan is over the officers; and Zabud son of Nathan is minister, friend of the king; And Ahishar is over the household, and Adoniram son of Abda is over the tribute.

The gist of this passage:     This gives us a list of people in Solomon’s cabinet.

Translation: King Solomon [is] king over all of Israel;... Solomon is said to be the king over all Israel. Now, whether that implies that there are divisions in nation Israel or not is unknown. There is the possibility that this may have been recorded or adjusted after Israel split into two countries.

King David had passed, Solomon’s rivals had been eliminated, and the people of Israel had accepted Solomon as their king. All that has come to pass, thus far in 1Kings 1–3, has led us to this point; and so, King Solomon [is] king over all of Israel;... All of this chapter rests upon this foundation.

Secondly, Solomon is king over all Israel, unlike his father David, who began as the king over Judah and, 7½ years later, became king over all Israel, and yet faced numerous revolts; and Solomon also distinguished himself from his son Rehoboam, who will rule over the southern half of a split kingdom (bear in mind, this chapter was probably written after Solomon’s death) as well as from all other kings who followed, who were over Israel (the northern kingdom) or over Judah (the southern kingdom) only.

Poole speaks to this unity: This is spoken with respect to his successors, who were kings only over a part, and that the smallest part of it. Or in reference to the times of division and rebellion under David; when part went after David, and part after Ish-bosheth; or part after Absalom, or Sheba, or Adonijah. But now all Israel were united under Solomon, and adhered to him, not only a part of them; especially since the death of Adonijah and Joab, (who may be suspected to have watched an opportunity of revolting,) and the confinement of Abiathar and of Shimei, (if not his death also,) who could now have little or no interest or opportunity of setting up a party against Solomon, (their principals being taken away, to whom they were but accessaries,) nor in probability any design to attempt it.

King Solomon was king over all Israel (graphic); from Free Daily Bible Study; accessed April 15, 2016.

The Preacher’s Complete Homiletical Commentary suggests that v. 1 is naturally linked to v. 20: 1Kings 4:1, 20: King Solomon was king over all Israel, Judah and Israel were as many as the sand by the sea. They ate and drank and were happy. What falls between these verses is a list of Solomon’s chief officers—first those working with him in the palace and then those who are outside the palace representing Solomon in the land.

——————————