1 Kings 10:21
And all king Solomon's drinking vessels were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold; none were of silver: it was nothing accounted of in the days of Solomon.
1 Kings 10:21 · King James Version
Meaning
During the reign of King Solomon, the wealth and opulence of his kingdom were unparalleled. The verse highlights the extravagance of the king's drinking vessels, which were all made of gold, as well as the vessels in the house of the forest of Lebanon. Silver was considered of no value during that time, as gold was the metal of choice for all precious items. This verse serves as a testament to the grandeur and prosperity of Solomon's kingdom, showcasing the abundance of resources and luxury enjoyed by the king and his people. It also symbolizes the wisdom and success of Solomon, as he was able to amass such riches and oversee a thriving kingdom. By emphasizing the use of gold over silver, the verse underscores the wealth and status of King Solomon and his kingdom, giving readers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of one of the most famous rulers in biblical history.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Kings describes the opulence and grandeur of King Solomon's reign. The mention of all his drinking vessels being made of gold signifies the wealth and prosperity of his kingdom. The vessels from the house of the forest of Lebanon being made of pure gold further emphasizes the extravagance of Solomon's court. The absence of silver vessels shows how little value silver held in comparison to gold during this time. This detail highlights the abundance and riches of Solomon's era, where even silver was considered insignificant in comparison to the pure gold that adorned his palace. The verse paints a picture of a time when precious metals were used lavishly and was a reflection of the power and glory of King Solomon's kingdom.
1 Kings 10:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And all king Solomon's drinking vessels were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold: none were of silver; it was nothing accounted of in the days of Solomon.
World English Bible
All king Solomon’s drinking vessels were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold: none were of silver; it was nothing accounted of in the days of Solomon.
Douay-Rheims
Moreover, all the vessels out of which king Solomon drank, were of gold: and all the furniture of the house of the forest of Libanus was of most pure gold: there was no silver, nor was any account made of it in the days of Solomon:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And all King Salomons drinking vessels were of golde, and all the vessels of the house of the woode of Lebanon were of pure golde, none were of siluer: for it was nothing esteemed in the dayes of Salomon.