1
Hiram, the king of Tyre, had always been David's friend. When Hiram heard that Solomon had been made king in David's place, he sent his messengers to Solomon.
2
Solomon sent this message back to King Hiram:
3
"You remember my father David had to fight many wars with the countries around him, so he was never able to build a temple for worshiping the Lord his God. David was waiting until the Lord allowed him to defeat all his enemies.
4
But now the Lord my God has given me peace on all sides of my country. I have no enemies now, and no danger threatens my people.
5
"The Lord promised my father David, 'I will make your son king after you, and he will build a temple for worshiping me.' Now, I plan to build that temple for worshiping the Lord my God.
6
So send your men to cut down cedar trees for me from Lebanon. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay them whatever wages you decide. We don't have anyone who can cut down trees as well as the people of Sidon."
7
When Hiram heard what Solomon asked, he was very happy. He said, "Praise the Lord today! He has given David a wise son to rule over this great nation!"
8
Then Hiram sent back this message to Solomon: "I received the message you sent, and I will give you all the cedar and pine trees you want.
9
My servants will bring them down from Lebanon to the sea. There I will tie them together and float them along the shore to the place you choose. Then I will separate the logs there, and you can take them away. In return it is my wish that you give food to all those who live with me."