Theory question 103
Solomon and the Divided Kingdom(a) What role did King Hiram of Tyre play in Solomon's preparation towards the building of the temple? (b) Indicate three benefits of making friends.
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(a) Hiram, who had always loved David, sent servants to Solomon when he became king (1 Kings 5:1).
Solomon asked him to have cedars cut from Lebanon, offering to pay his servants' wages (1 Kings 5:2-6).
Hiram rejoiced and blessed the Lord for giving David a wise son (1 Kings 5:7).
He agreed to supply cedar and cypress timber, floated by sea in rafts to the place Solomon chose (1 Kings 5:8-9).
Solomon paid him wheat and oil yearly; they made a treaty (1 Kings 5:10-12).
Hiram's builders and the Gebalites helped prepare the timber and stone (1 Kings 5:18).
He sent Hiram (Huram-abi), a skilled bronze worker, to make the pillars and vessels (1 Kings 7:13-14).
(b) Any three: help in time of need; sharing of skills and resources; peace and security; advice and encouragement; trade and economic growth; support in carrying out projects.
Describe Hiram's help from 1 Kings 5, then three benefits.