Kue is a region mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of King Solomon's reign. It is referenced in 1 Kings 10:28 and 2 Chronicles 1:16, where it is noted as a source of horses for Solomon's extensive chariotry and cavalry. The Berean Standard Bible translates these passages as follows:

1 Kings 10:28 : "Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue."

2 Chronicles 1:16 : "Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue."

Geographical and Historical Context

Kue is often identified with the region of Cilicia in southeastern Asia Minor, present-day Turkey. This identification is based on historical and geographical analyses, as well as ancient records that associate the name "Kue" with Cilicia. The region was known for its fertile plains and strategic location, which made it a significant center for trade and military resources in the ancient Near East.

During the time of Solomon, Kue was likely under the influence or control of the Hittites or Neo-Hittite states, which were known for their horse breeding and chariotry. The mention of Kue in the context of Solomon's trade relations highlights the extensive network of commerce and diplomacy that characterized his reign. Solomon's ability to procure horses from Kue underscores the wealth and reach of his kingdom, as well as his strategic interest in maintaining a powerful military.

Cultural and Economic Significance

The importation of horses from Kue reflects the broader economic and cultural exchanges between Israel and its neighbors. Horses were a valuable commodity in the ancient world, essential for chariots and cavalry, which were critical components of military power. The acquisition of horses from Kue would have enhanced Solomon's military capabilities, contributing to the security and expansion of his kingdom.

The trade with Kue also illustrates the interconnectedness of ancient Near Eastern societies. Solomon's alliances and trade agreements with regions like Kue demonstrate the diplomatic acumen that characterized his rule. These relationships were not only economic but also cultural, as they facilitated the exchange of ideas, technologies, and customs.

Biblical and Theological Implications

From a biblical perspective, the mention of Kue in the context of Solomon's reign serves to highlight the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel regarding prosperity and influence. Solomon's wealth and the extent of his kingdom are often seen as a partial fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham and David. However, the accumulation of horses and chariots also serves as a subtle reminder of the warnings given in Deuteronomy 17:16, where the king is cautioned against multiplying horses and relying on military might rather than on God.

The reference to Kue, therefore, invites reflection on the balance between human achievement and divine reliance. While Solomon's reign is marked by unprecedented prosperity and wisdom, it also foreshadows the potential pitfalls of wealth and power when they lead to self-reliance and departure from God's commandments.6961b. Qoveh -- an area in Cilicia
Qoveh or Qove. 6961a, 6961b. Qoveh or Qove. 6962 . an area in Cilicia.
Transliteration: Qoveh or Qove Short Definition: Kue. Word ...
/hebrew/6961b.htm - 5k

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6. <. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Kue (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kue (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings 10:28 And Solomon's horses
came from Egypt and from Kue; the king's traders got them at a price from Kue. ...
/k/kue.htm - 6k

Ku'e (2 Occurrences)
Ku'e. Kue, Ku'e. Kumkum . ... 2 Chronicles 1:16 The horses which Solomon had were
brought out of Egypt and from Kue; the king's merchants purchased them from Kue...
/k/ku'e.htm - 6k

Traders (31 Occurrences)
... (WEB JPS ASV BBE NAS RSV NIV). 1 Kings 10:28 And Solomon's horses came from Egypt
and from Kue; the king's traders got them at a price from Kue. (BBE RSV). ...
/t/traders.htm - 15k

Chariot (102 Occurrences)
... emendation of the text it is now proposed to read the preceding (1 Kings 10:28):
"And Solomon's import of horses was from Mucri and from Kue; the king's ...
/c/chariot.htm - 55k

Import (2 Occurrences)
... (See NAS RSV NIV). 2 Chronicles 1:16 The horses which Solomon had were brought out
of Egypt and from Kue; the king's merchants purchased them from Kue. ...
/i/import.htm - 7k

Imported (9 Occurrences)
... (See NAS RSV NIV). 2 Chronicles 1:16 The horses which Solomon had were brought out
of Egypt and from Kue; the king's merchants purchased them from Kue. ...
/i/imported.htm - 9k

Merchants (34 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 1:16 The horses which Solomon had were brought out of Egypt
and from Kue; the king's merchants purchased them from Kue. ...
/m/merchants.htm - 16k

Procured (13 Occurrences)
... (See NAS). 2 Chronicles 1:16 The horses which Solomon had were brought out of Egypt
and from Kue; the king's merchants purchased them from Kue. (See NAS). ...
/p/procured.htm - 10k

Purchased (24 Occurrences)
... (See NIV). 2 Chronicles 1:16 The horses which Solomon had were brought out of Egypt
and from Kue; the king's merchants purchased them from Kue. (WEB NIV). ...
/p/purchased.htm - 13k

Solomon's (56 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS NAS RSV NIV). 1 Kings 10:28 And Solomon's horses came
from Egypt and from Kue; the king's traders got them at a price from Kue. ...
/s/solomon's.htm - 31k

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