Topical Bible: Purveyor for Solomon

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the context of the biblical narrative, a purveyor for Solomon refers to an official responsible for supplying provisions for King Solomon's household and the broader needs of his kingdom. This role is highlighted during the reign of Solomon, the son of David, who was known for his wisdom, wealth, and extensive building projects, including the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the purveyors for Solomon is found in 1 Kings 4:7-19. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"Solomon had twelve governors over all Israel, who provided food for the king and his household. Each one made provision for one month of the year."

These governors, or purveyors, were tasked with ensuring that the king's household was well-supplied throughout the year. Each purveyor was responsible for a specific region of Israel, reflecting the administrative organization and the division of labor under Solomon's rule. This system not only facilitated the efficient management of resources but also underscored the prosperity and stability of Solomon's reign.

Role and Responsibilities:

The purveyors were responsible for gathering and delivering various provisions, including food, livestock, and other necessary supplies. Their duties were crucial for maintaining the daily operations of the royal court and supporting the king's extensive building projects. The role required careful planning and coordination, as each purveyor had to ensure that their region could meet the demands of the king's household during their assigned month.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Solomon's reign is often characterized by peace and prosperity, allowing for significant advancements in trade, culture, and infrastructure. The role of the purveyors was integral to sustaining this period of growth. The system of regional governors reflects the broader administrative practices of ancient Near Eastern monarchies, where local officials played key roles in supporting the central authority.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the role of the purveyors highlights the importance of stewardship and the wise management of resources. Solomon's ability to organize and sustain such a system is often seen as a reflection of his God-given wisdom. In 1 Kings 3:12 , God says to Solomon, "Behold, I have done according to your words. I have given you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has been no one like you before you, nor shall anyone like you arise after you."

The purveyors' work ensured that Solomon could focus on his duties as king, including the administration of justice, the expansion of his kingdom, and the construction of the Temple, which was central to Israel's worship and relationship with God.

Conclusion:

The purveyors for Solomon played a vital role in the administration of his kingdom, ensuring the smooth operation of the royal household and supporting the king's broader objectives. Their work exemplifies the principles of stewardship and the effective management of resources, which are themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 4:7-19,27
And Solomon had twelve officers over all Israel, which provided victuals for the king and his household: each man his month in a year made provision.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Appendix. The Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament.
... With Enemessar he was in favor, became his purveyor, and was able to deposit ten
talents of silver with Gabael at Rages, a city of ... V. THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON. ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/appendix the apocryphal books of.htm

A Letter from Origen to Africanus.
... be some analogies in the story of Daniel to the judgment of Solomon, concerning
whom ... grace and beauty in the eyes of Nemessarus, and I was his purveyor; and I ...
//christianbookshelf.org/origen/origens letters/a letter from origen to.htm

2 Cor. xii. 16-18
... sinners; "for he is grievous unto us even to behold." (Wisdom of Solomon ii.15 ... healthful
medicines, the other one with poison on it, and made the purveyor to a ...
/.../homilies on the epistles of paul to the corinthians/homily xxviii 2 cor xii.htm

Of Uncharitable Truth.
... And if a man will regard those winds, he must, as Solomon says, never sow ... which breaks
out at the Tongue: and were not Curiosity the Purveyor, Detraction would ...
/.../allestree/the government of the tongue/section vi of uncharitable truth.htm

Tendencies of Religious Thought in England, 1688-1750.
... To degrade religion to the position of a mere purveyor of motive to morality is ... of
things,' by his saying (Sermon xv.) that the writings of Solomon are very ...
/.../tendencies of religious thought in.htm