So king Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth for riches and for wisdom.

1 KINGS 10:23KJV
Know the Bible

1 Kings 10:23 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 10:23 mean?

1 Kings 10:23 states that King Solomon surpassed all the other kings of the earth in both wealth and wisdom. This verse highlights Solomon’s unique position among rulers of his time, emphasizing that no other king matched his prosperity or understanding.

The verse comes in the context of the biblical account where the Queen of Sheba visits Solomon to test his wisdom and is amazed by his answers and the splendor of his court. The writer is summing up Solomon’s reputation, showing that his fame for riches and wisdom was unmatched, not just in Israel, but across all known nations.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 10:23

  • "Exceeded" (גָּדַל, gadal): This word means “to become great” or “to surpass.” It shows that Solomon didn’t just have more wealth and wisdom than others—he was in a category of his own, standing out above all other kings.
  • "Riches" (עֹשֶׁר, osher): This word refers to material wealth or abundance. The verse is pointing to Solomon’s extraordinary prosperity, which was visible to all who visited or heard about him.
  • "Wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokhmah): This word means not just intelligence, but skill, insight, and practical understanding. The verse stresses that Solomon’s wisdom was as remarkable as his riches, making him famous far beyond his own country.

Why 1 Kings 10:23 matters

  • The verse clears up any idea that Solomon was only known for one thing; he was famous for both his wealth and his wisdom, which was unusual for ancient kings.
  • It emphasizes the fulfillment of God’s promise to Solomon earlier in the book, where God granted him wisdom and also great riches.
  • This statement sets up the rest of the chapter, where the narrative describes the extent of Solomon’s wealth and the admiration he received from other rulers, showing the peak of Israel’s influence during his reign.

Where else these words appear

“riches” Hebrew H6239 · used in 36 verses

  • Genesis 31:16 For all the riches which God hath taken from our father, that is ours, and our children's: now then, whatsoever God hath said unto thee, do.
  • 2 Chronicles 32:27 And Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honour: and he made himself treasuries for silver, and for gold, and for precious stones, and for spices, and for shields, and for all manner of pleasant jewels;
  • Proverbs 22:1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

“exceeded” Hebrew H1431 · used in 112 verses

  • Genesis 12:2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
  • 1 Chronicles 22:5 And David said, Solomon my son is young and tender, and the house that is to be builded for the LORD must be exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries: I will therefore now make preparation for it. So David prepared abundantly before his death.
  • Isaiah 23:4 Be thou ashamed, O Zidon: for the sea hath spoken, even the strength of the sea, saying, I travail not, nor bring forth children, neither do I nourish up young men, nor bring up virgins.

“wisdom” Hebrew H2451 · used in 141 verses

  • Exodus 28:3 And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron's garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.
  • Job 28:28 And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
  • Proverbs 29:3 Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.