1 Kings 10:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 10:20 mean?

1 Kings 10:20 describes how twelve lions stood on either side of the six steps leading up to Solomon’s throne, emphasizing that no other kingdom had anything like this. The verse highlights the unique and impressive craftsmanship of Solomon’s throne, setting it apart from all others.

This verse is part of a larger description of King Solomon’s wealth and the splendor of his court, as witnessed by the Queen of Sheba during her visit. The mention of the twelve lions and six steps gives a vivid picture of the throne’s grandeur and the extraordinary effort put into its design, underlining Solomon’s status and the prosperity of his reign.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 10:20

• "twelve" (שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר, shenayim asar): The number twelve often represents completeness or the tribes of Israel, which may suggest a symbolic meaning beyond just decoration.
• "lions" (אֲרָיוֹת, arayot): Lions were symbols of strength and royalty in the ancient Near East, so their presence on the steps would communicate power and majesty.
• "steps" (מַעֲלוֹת, maalot): The six steps emphasize the elevation and importance of the throne, making it a focal point in the royal court.
• "like" (כֵּן, ken): The word for "like" stresses that nothing comparable had been made in any other kingdom, highlighting the throne’s unmatched uniqueness.

Why 1 Kings 10:20 matters

• This verse clears up that the lions were not just decorative but were placed deliberately to symbolize power and royal authority, reinforcing Solomon’s image as a king above others.
• The detail about there being nothing like it in any other kingdom emphasizes the extraordinary wealth and craftsmanship of Solomon’s reign, which is a key theme in this chapter.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing how Solomon’s court impressed foreign dignitaries like the Queen of Sheba, underlining Israel’s prominence at that time.