1 Kings 7:44
And one sea, and twelve oxen under the sea;
Original Language Analysis
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַיָּֽם׃
sea
H3220
הַיָּֽם׃
sea
Strong's:
H3220
Word #:
2 of 9
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
הָֽאֶחָ֑ד
And one
H259
הָֽאֶחָ֑ד
And one
Strong's:
H259
Word #:
3 of 9
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַבָּקָ֥ר
oxen
H1241
הַבָּקָ֥ר
oxen
Strong's:
H1241
Word #:
5 of 9
a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd
עָשָׂ֖ר
H6240
עָשָׂ֖ר
Strong's:
H6240
Word #:
7 of 9
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth
Historical Context
First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE) represented Israel's golden age of peace and prosperity.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the temple as God's dwelling place help us understand Christ's incarnation and the church as God's temple today?
- What does Solomon's prayer and dedication teach about approaching God in worship and prayer?
- How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And one sea, and twelve oxen under the sea;
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of temple furnishings and solomon's palace, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.