4:1ff Solomon was well organized, with 11 princes with specific responsibilities and 12 officers, one for each tribe, and a general manager. Each person had a specific responsibility or territory to manage. This organization was essential to maintain the government’s effectiveness: It was a wise move by a wise man. It is good stewardship to be well organized. Good organization helps people work together in harmony and ensures that the desired goal will be reached.
4:7 During Solomon’s reign, each of the 12 tribes was responsible for providing food for the king’s household for one month. Since Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines, not to mention children, servants, and livestock, a lot of food was required. The prophet Samuel had warned the people of heavy taxation when they came to him begging for a king (1 Samuel 8:11-18).
4:20-25 Throughout most of his reign, Solomon applied his wisdom well because he sought God. The fruits of this wisdom were peace, security, and prosperity for the nation. Solomon’s era is often looked upon as the ideal of what any nation can become when united in its trust in and obedience to God.
4:32 The book of Proverbs records many of these 3,000 wise proverbs. Other biblical writings of Solomon include Psalms 72 and 127, and the books of Ecclesiastes and the Song of Solomon. Solomon’s wisdom was known throughout the world.