1 Kings 10:18 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 10:18 mean?

1 Kings 10:18 describes how King Solomon had a large throne made out of ivory and then covered it with the finest gold. This verse highlights the extraordinary wealth and craftsmanship present in Solomon’s kingdom.

The verse is part of a larger section where the author explains the splendor of Solomon’s reign to the reader. The focus on ivory and gold shows the king’s access to rare and valuable materials, and the “great throne” underlines his authority and status. This detail comes as the Queen of Sheba visits Solomon, emphasizing the impressive nature of his court.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 10:18

• The word for “throne” is כִּסֵּא (kisse’), which refers to a seat of authority or royal chair. Its use here signals not just a piece of furniture, but a symbol of Solomon’s rule.
• “Ivory” is שֵׁן (shen), meaning the material from elephant tusks, which was rare and costly in ancient Israel, underscoring the luxury involved.
• The phrase “overlaid it with the best gold” uses the word פָּז (paz), which refers to the purest, most refined gold. This stresses that Solomon didn’t just use gold, but the highest quality available.

Why 1 Kings 10:18 matters

• This verse helps the reader see the scale of Solomon’s wealth and the lengths taken to display royal power and prestige in ancient Israel.
• The mention of ivory and the best gold connects to the broader biblical theme of Solomon’s wisdom bringing prosperity and international attention, as seen in his interactions with foreign dignitaries.
• Understanding the materials and craftsmanship involved adds depth to the narrative, showing that Solomon’s kingdom was not only spiritually significant but also materially impressive by ancient standards.