Preparations for Building the Temple
1 Now
1Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants to Solomon when he heard that they had anointed him king in place of his father,
2for Hiram always loved David.
2
And Solomon sent word to Hiram,
3
3"You know that David my father could not build a house for the name of the LORD his God
4because of the warfare with which his enemies surrounded him, until the LORD put them under the soles of his feet.
4
5But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side. There is neither adversary nor misfortune.
5
And so I intend to build a house for the name of the LORD my God,
6as the LORD said to David my father, 'Your son, whom I will set on your throne in your place, shall build the house for my name.'
6
Now therefore command that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. And my servants will join your servants, and I will pay you for your servants such wages as you set, for you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians."
7
As soon as Hiram heard the words of Solomon, he rejoiced greatly and said, "Blessed be the LORD this day, who has given to David a wise son to be over this great people."
8
And Hiram sent to Solomon, saying, "I have heard the message that you have sent to me. I am ready to do all you desire in the matter of cedar and cypress timber.
9
My servants shall bring it down to the sea from Lebanon, and I will make it into rafts to go by sea to the place you direct. And I will have them broken up there, and you shall receive it. And you shall meet my wishes
7by providing food for my household."