And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price.

1 KINGS 10:28KJV
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1 Kings 10:28 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 10:28 mean?

1 Kings 10:28 says that King Solomon imported horses and linen yarn from Egypt, and his merchants paid a price for the linen yarn. The verse highlights the organized trade and wealth during Solomon’s reign, showing how goods were brought into Israel through official channels.

This verse is part of a larger section describing Solomon’s prosperity and international connections. The writer is narrating how Solomon’s administration managed trade with Egypt, a powerful neighbor, by purchasing valuable items like horses and linen yarn. The mention of merchants and payment shows a structured, commercial relationship rather than simple tribute or gifts.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 10:28

  • "horses" (סוּס, sûs): This word refers to horses, which were valuable for chariots and military strength. The fact that Solomon imported them from Egypt points to a deliberate effort to strengthen his army and prestige.
  • "yarn" (מִקְוֶה, miqweh): Often translated as "linen yarn," this word can also mean a collection or gathering, possibly referring to a bundle or quantity of linen. The exact meaning is debated, but it clearly points to a valuable textile product.
  • "merchants" (תָּגָר, tagar): This word means traders or merchants, showing that Solomon used professional agents for international trade, not just royal envoys.
  • "price" (מְחִיר, mekhir): This word means a set price or cost, emphasizing that the goods were bought through regular commerce, not as tribute or spoils.

Why 1 Kings 10:28 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that Solomon’s wealth was only from tribute or gifts; it shows that trade and commerce were a major part of his kingdom’s prosperity.
  • The verse highlights Solomon’s international connections, especially with Egypt, which was a major power and a traditional source of horses.
  • By mentioning merchants and payment, the verse shows that Solomon’s administration was organized and participated in the economic systems of the ancient world, not just relying on conquest or tribute.

Where else these words appear

“yarn” Hebrew H4723 · used in 10 verses

  • Genesis 1:10 And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
  • 1 Chronicles 29:15 For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding.
  • Jeremiah 14:8 O the hope of Israel, the saviour thereof in time of trouble, why shouldest thou be as a stranger in the land, and as a wayfaring man that turneth aside to tarry for a night?

“price” Hebrew H4242 · used in 15 verses

  • Deuteronomy 23:18 Thou shalt not bring the hire of a whore, or the price of a dog, into the house of the LORD thy God for any vow: for even both these are abomination unto the LORD thy God.
  • Job 28:15 It cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof.
  • Isaiah 55:1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

“merchants” Hebrew H5503 · used in 20 verses

  • Genesis 23:16 And Abraham hearkened unto Ephron; and Abraham weighed to Ephron the silver, which he had named in the audience of the sons of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, current money with the merchant.
  • 2 Chronicles 9:14 Beside that which chapmen and merchants brought. And all the kings of Arabia and governors of the country brought gold and silver to Solomon.
  • Jeremiah 14:18 If I go forth into the field, then behold the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then behold them that are sick with famine! yea, both the prophet and the priest go about into a land that they know not.

“brought” Hebrew H4161 · used in 26 verses

  • Numbers 30:12 But if her husband hath utterly made them void on the day he heard them; then whatsoever proceeded out of her lips concerning her vows, or concerning the bond of her soul, shall not stand: her husband hath made them void; and the LORD shall forgive her.
  • Job 28:1 Surely there is a vein for the silver, and a place for gold where they fine it.
  • Isaiah 41:18 I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.