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11. Hiram. There is some question as to whether this Hiram is the same as the Hiram who assisted Solomon in the building of the Temple (1 Kings 5:1; 2 Chron. 2:3). Considering the two to be identical appears to assign an unusually long, though not impossible, reign to one king. The events of this chapter took place early in David’s reign, whereas the Hiram connected with Solomon was still alive in the 24th year of Solomon’s reign (1 Kings 9:10-14; cf. 6:1, 38; 7:1); this would make a total of more than 50 years of reign if the two Hirams were the same. Against the view claiming the two kings to be identical is the statement by Josephus that the Hiram who assisted Solomon ruled for 34 years (Against Apion 1. 18). However, Josephus’ chronological statements cannot always be trusted for accuracy.

Sent messengers. Hiram sought the alliance. This was a tribute to David’s power.

Built David an house. The Phoenicians (see pp. 67-69) at this time had much more experience and skill in building than had the Hebrews, for both David and Solomon relied heavily upon them in the construction both of their palaces and the Temple. Archeologists confirm that the masonry of the early Hebrew period in Palestine was inferior to that of the Canaanites, who preceded them, and to whom the Phoenicians belonged.