Verse 4

But now the LORD my God hath given me a rest on every side, [so that there is] neither adversary nor evil occurrent.

(a) He declares that he was bound to set forth God's glory for as much as the Lord had sent him rest and peace.

Verse 6

Now therefore command thou that they hew me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and my servants shall be with thy servants: and unto thee will I give b hire for thy servants according to all that thou shalt appoint: for thou knowest that [there is] not among us any that can skill to hew timber like unto the Sidonians.

(b) This was his equity, that he would not receive a benefit without some recompence.

Verse 7

And it came to pass, when c Hiram heard the words of Solomon, that he rejoiced greatly, and said, Blessed [be] the LORD this day, which hath given unto David a wise son over this great people.

(c) In Hiram is prefigured the calling of the Gentiles who would help build the spiritual temple.

Verse 9

My servants shall bring [them] down from Lebanon unto the sea: and I will convey them by sea in floats unto the place that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to be discharged there, and thou shalt receive [them]: and thou shalt accomplish my desire, in giving food for d my household.

(d) While my servants are occupied with your business.

Verse 12

And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, as he promised him: and there was peace between Hiram and Solomon; and they e two made a league together.

(e) Concerning the furniture of wood.

Verse 18

And Solomon's builders and Hiram's f builders did hew [them], and the stonesquarers: so they prepared timber and stones to build the house.

(f) The Hebrew word is Giblim, which some say were excellent masons.