1 Kings 10:27 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 10:27 mean?

1 Kings 10:27 describes how King Solomon made silver so common in Jerusalem that it was as plentiful as stones, and he made cedar wood as abundant as the ordinary sycamore trees in the valleys. This verse highlights the extraordinary wealth and prosperity that existed in Jerusalem during Solomon’s reign.

The verse is part of a larger section describing Solomon’s achievements and the prosperity of his kingdom. The writer is emphasizing, to the reader, just how rich and well-supplied Jerusalem became under Solomon, using everyday items—stones and sycamore trees—as comparisons to show how even valuable things like silver and cedar became commonplace.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 10:27

• "Silver" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) is the word used for silver, a precious metal. The verse’s point is that silver, usually valuable, was so plentiful it was like stones—something people would normally overlook.
• "Cedars" (אֶרֶז, erez) refers to cedar wood, especially prized for building. Cedars were imported from Lebanon and were considered luxurious, so comparing them to the common "sycomore trees" (שִׁקְמוֹן, shiqmon) in the valley shows how even rare materials became widespread.
• "Abundance" (רֹב, rov) means a great quantity or plenty. This word underlines the sense of overflowing prosperity, not just sufficiency.

Why 1 Kings 10:27 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that Solomon’s wealth was limited to gold; it shows that even silver and valuable building materials were in overwhelming supply.
• The comparisons to stones and sycamore trees help modern readers grasp just how unusual and impressive this prosperity was for the time.
• It connects to the wider passage by illustrating the fulfillment of God’s promises to Solomon and Israel, and sets the stage for understanding the later decline when this prosperity fades.