Question 1

What does 1 Kings 6:14 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Kings 6:14 states that Solomon completed the building of the temple, bringing the construction to its conclusion. The verse marks the end of the main building work on the house of the Lord, which Solomon had begun earlier in the chapter. This verse comes in the middle of a detailed account describing how King Solomon oversaw the construction of the temple in Jerusalem. The "house" refers to the temple, a central place for Israel's worship of God. The verse signals a turning point: after years of work and careful planning, the main structure was now finished, setting the stage for the next steps in preparing the temple for worship.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 6:14

Accepted Answer

"built" — בָּנָה (banah): This word means to construct or build. In this context, it emphasizes Solomon's active role in overseeing and ensuring the temple was properly constructed. "house" — בַּיִת (bayith): This term refers specifically to the temple, not just any building or dwelling. It highlights the sacred purpose of the structure as the house of God. "finished" — כָּלָה (kalah): This word means to complete or bring to an end. It stresses that the main work was not just started but fully brought to completion, highlighting the care and thoroughness of the project.

Question 3

Why 1 Kings 6:14 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that Solomon did not just begin the temple project but saw it through to completion, which was a significant achievement for Israel's national and religious life. The verse marks a transition in the narrative from construction to the temple's dedication and use, helping readers follow the flow of the story. By using specific words for "house" and "finished," the verse underscores both the sacredness of the building and the importance of completing what was started, themes that are echoed throughout the larger passage.

1 Kings 6:14 (KJV)