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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Kings 10:20 Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_kings/10-20.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/11_1Ki_10_20.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Kings 10:20 - Solomon's Wealth and Splendor" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. 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Nothing like it had ever been made for any other kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/1_kings/10.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />There were also twelve other lions, one standing on each end of the six steps. No other throne in all the world could be compared with it!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/1_kings/10.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />while twelve lions stood there, one on each end of a step on the six steps. The like of it was never made in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/1_kings/10.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/1_kings/10.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/1_kings/10.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Twelve lions stood there, one on each side of the six steps; nothing like <i>this</i> had been made for any <i>other</i> kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/1_kings/10.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Twelve lions were standing there on the six steps on the one side and on the other; nothing like <i>it</i> was made for any other kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/1_kings/10.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Twelve lions were standing there on the six steps on the one side and on the other; nothing like it was made for any other kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/1_kings/10.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />And twelve lions were standing there on the six steps on the one side and on the other; nothing like <i>it</i> was made for any other kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/1_kings/10.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Twelve lions were also standing there on the six steps on the one side and on the other; nothing like <i>it</i> was made for all the <i>other</i> kingdoms.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/1_kings/10.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Twelve lions stood there, one on either end of each of the six steps; there was nothing like it made for any other kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/1_kings/10.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Twelve lions were standing there on the six steps, one at each end. Nothing like it had ever been made in any other kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/1_kings/10.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Twelve lions were standing there on the six steps, one at each end. Nothing like it had ever been made in any other kingdom. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/1_kings/10.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/1_kings/10.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/1_kings/10.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Twelve lions stood on six steps, one on each side. Nothing like this had been made for any other kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/1_kings/10.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Twelve lions were placed on both sides of the six steps leading to the throne, and nothing comparable was made for any other kingdoms. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/1_kings/10.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/1_kings/10.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />There were twelve statues of lions on the six steps, one lion at each end of each step. There was nothing like it in any other kingdom. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/1_kings/10.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other on the six steps: there was nothing like it made in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/1_kings/10.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/1_kings/10.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other on the six steps. Nothing like it was made in any kingdom. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/1_kings/10.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />and twelve lions are standing there on the six steps, on this [side] and on that; it has not been made so for any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/1_kings/10.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> and twelve lions are standing there on the six steps, on this side and on that; it hath not been made so for any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/1_kings/10.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And twelve lions standing there upon the six steps, hence and thence: there was not made thus to all the kingdoms.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/1_kings/10.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />And twelve little lions stood upon the six steps on the one side and on the other: there was no such work made in any kingdom. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/1_kings/10.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />with twelve little lions standing upon the six steps, on one side and the other. No similar work has been made, ever in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/1_kings/10.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />and twelve other lions standing there on the steps, two to a step, one on either side of each step. Nothing like this was made in any other kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/1_kings/10.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />while twelve lions were standing, one on each end of a step on the six steps. Nothing like it was ever made in any kingdom.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/1_kings/10.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps; there was not the like in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/1_kings/10.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And twelve lions stood on the side of six steps on either side; there was nothing made in this way among all kingdoms.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/1_kings/10.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps; there was not the like made in any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/1_kings/10.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />and twelve lions standing there on the six steps on either side: it was not so done in any <i>other</i> kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/1_kings/10-20.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xx9A0AxPaoQ?start=4109" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/1_kings/10.htm">Solomon's Wealth and Splendor</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">19</span>The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest. <span class="reftext">20</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/8147.htm" title="8147: ū·šə·nêm (Conj-w:: Number-md) -- Two (a card. number). Dual of sheniy; feminine shttayim; two; also twofold.">Twelve</a> <a href="/hebrew/6240.htm" title="6240: ‘ā·śār (Number-msc) -- Ten. For eser; ten, i.e. -teen; also -teenth."></a> <a href="/hebrew/738.htm" title="738: ’ă·rā·yîm (N-mp) -- A lion. Or earyeh; from 'arah; a lion.">lions</a> <a href="/hebrew/5975.htm" title="5975: ‘ō·mə·ḏîm (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mp) -- To take one's stand, stand. A primitive root; to stand, in various relations.">stood</a> <a href="/hebrew/8033.htm" title="8033: šām (Adv) -- There, thither. A primitive particle; there then; often thither, or thence."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">on</a> <a href="/hebrew/8337.htm" title="8337: šêš (Number-fsc) -- Masculine shishshah; a primitive number; six (see suws) beyond five or the fingers of the hand); as ord. Sixth.">the six</a> <a href="/hebrew/4609.htm" title="4609: ham·ma·‘ă·lō·wṯ (Art:: N-fp) -- Feminine of ma'aleh; elevation, i.e. The act, or the condition; specifically a climactic progression.">steps,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2088.htm" title="2088: miz·zeh (Prep-m:: Pro-ms) -- This, here. A primitive word; the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that.">one at either end</a> <a href="/hebrew/2088.htm" title="2088: ū·miz·zeh (Conj-w, Prep-m:: Pro-ms) -- This, here. A primitive word; the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that.">of each step.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō- (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">Nothing</a> <a href="/hebrew/3651.htm" title="3651: ḵên (Adv) -- So, thus. From kuwn; properly, set upright; hence just; but usually rightly or so.">like this</a> <a href="/hebrew/6213.htm" title="6213: na·‘ă·śāh (V-Nifal-Perf-3ms) -- To do, make. A primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application.">had ever been made</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: lə·ḵāl (Prep-l:: N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">for any</a> <a href="/hebrew/4467.htm" title="4467: mam·lā·ḵō·wṯ (N-fp) -- Kingdom, sovereignty, dominion, reign. From malak; dominion, i.e. the estate or the country.">kingdom.</a> </span><span class="reftext">21</span>All King Solomon’s drinking cups were gold, and all the utensils of the House of the Forest of Lebanon were pure gold. There was no silver, because it was accounted as nothing in the days of Solomon.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/9-19.htm">2 Chronicles 9:19</a></span><br />Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/4-24.htm">1 Kings 4:24-25</a></span><br />For Solomon had dominion over everything west of the Euphrates—over all the kingdoms from Tiphsah to Gaza—and he had peace on all sides. / Throughout the days of Solomon, Judah and Israel dwelt securely from Dan to Beersheba, each man under his own vine and his own fig tree.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/7-29.htm">1 Kings 7:29-30</a></span><br />and on the panels between the uprights were lions, oxen, and cherubim. On the uprights was a pedestal above, and below the lions and oxen were wreaths of beveled work. / Each stand had four bronze wheels with bronze axles and a basin resting on four supports, with wreaths at each side.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/7-36.htm">1 Kings 7:36</a></span><br />He engraved cherubim, lions, and palm trees on the surfaces of the supports and panels, wherever each had space, with wreaths all around.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/9-17.htm">1 Kings 9:17-19</a></span><br />So Solomon rebuilt Gezer, Lower Beth-horon, / Baalath, and Tamar in the Wilderness of Judah, / as well as all the store cities that Solomon had for his chariots and horses—whatever he desired to build in Jerusalem, Lebanon, and throughout the land of his dominion.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/9-17.htm">2 Chronicles 9:17-18</a></span><br />Additionally, the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold. / The throne had six steps, and a footstool of gold was attached to it. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/1-15.htm">2 Chronicles 1:15</a></span><br />The king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/9-22.htm">2 Chronicles 9:22-24</a></span><br />So King Solomon surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom. / All the kings of the earth sought an audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom that God had put in his heart. / Year after year, each visitor would bring his tribute: articles of silver and gold, clothing, weapons, spices, horses, and mules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/10-18.htm">1 Kings 10:18-19</a></span><br />Additionally, the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold. / The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/10-21.htm">1 Kings 10:21</a></span><br />All King Solomon’s drinking cups were gold, and all the utensils of the House of the Forest of Lebanon were pure gold. There was no silver, because it was accounted as nothing in the days of Solomon.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/10-23.htm">1 Kings 10:23-25</a></span><br />So King Solomon surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom. / The whole world sought an audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom that God had put in his heart. / Year after year, each visitor would bring his tribute: articles of silver and gold, clothing, weapons, spices, horses, and mules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/9-20.htm">2 Chronicles 9:20</a></span><br />All King Solomon’s drinking cups were gold, and all the utensils of the House of the Forest of Lebanon were pure gold. There was no silver, because it was accounted as nothing in the days of Solomon.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/9-27.htm">2 Chronicles 9:27</a></span><br />The king made silver as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/6-29.htm">Matthew 6:29</a></span><br />Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/12-27.htm">Luke 12:27</a></span><br />Consider how the lilies grow: They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other on the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom.</p><p class="hdg">lions</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/49-9.htm">Genesis 49:9</a></b></br> Judah <i>is</i> a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up?</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/numbers/23-24.htm">Numbers 23:24</a></b></br> Behold, the people shall rise up as a great lion, and lift up himself as a young lion: he shall not lie down until he eat <i>of</i> the prey, and drink the blood of the slain.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/numbers/24-9.htm">Numbers 24:9</a></b></br> He couched, he lay down as a lion, and as a great lion: who shall stir him up? Blessed <i>is</i> he that blesseth thee, and cursed <i>is</i> he that curseth thee.</p><p class="hdg">the like made [heb] so made </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_kings/10-19.htm">Either</a> <a href="/1_kings/9-10.htm">End</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-9.htm">Kingdom</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-19.htm">Lions</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-9.htm">Placed</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-19.htm">Side</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-19.htm">Six</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-19.htm">Standing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/22-37.htm">Step</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-19.htm">Steps</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-19.htm">Stood</a> <a href="/1_kings/7-44.htm">Twelve</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_kings/18-27.htm">Either</a> <a href="/1_kings/15-19.htm">End</a> <a href="/1_kings/11-11.htm">Kingdom</a> <a href="/2_kings/17-25.htm">Lions</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-26.htm">Placed</a> <a href="/1_kings/13-24.htm">Side</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-29.htm">Six</a> <a href="/1_kings/11-28.htm">Standing</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/9-19.htm">Step</a> <a href="/2_kings/9-13.htm">Steps</a> <a href="/1_kings/12-6.htm">Stood</a> <a href="/1_kings/10-26.htm">Twelve</a><div class="vheading2">1 Kings 10</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_kings/10-1.htm">The queen of Sheba admires the wisdom of Solomon</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_kings/10-14.htm">Solomon's gold</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_kings/10-16.htm">His targets</a></span><br><span class="reftext">18. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_kings/10-18.htm">The throne of ivory</a></span><br><span class="reftext">21. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_kings/10-21.htm">His vessels</a></span><br><span class="reftext">24. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_kings/10-24.htm">His presents</a></span><br><span class="reftext">26. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_kings/10-26.htm">his chariots and horse</a></span><br><span class="reftext">28. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_kings/10-28.htm">his tribute</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_kings/10.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_kings/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_kings/10.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Twelve lions stood on the six steps</b><br>The number twelve often symbolizes completeness or the tribes of Israel, suggesting a representation of the entire nation. Lions are symbols of strength, majesty, and royalty, reflecting the power and authority of King Solomon's reign. The presence of lions on the steps leading to the throne signifies the king's dominion and the divine protection over his rule. This imagery can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is referred to as the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" in <a href="/revelation/5-5.htm">Revelation 5:5</a>, symbolizing His ultimate authority and kingship.<p><b>one at either end of each step</b><br>The placement of the lions at either end of each step emphasizes balance and symmetry, which are important aspects of ancient Near Eastern architecture and art. This design choice highlights the grandeur and meticulous planning involved in Solomon's palace, reflecting the wisdom and orderliness attributed to Solomon himself. The strategic positioning of the lions may also serve as a reminder of the protection and vigilance required in leadership, as lions are often seen as guardians.<p><b>Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom</b><br>This statement underscores the unparalleled wealth, wisdom, and creativity of Solomon's reign. The grandeur of Solomon's throne and its unique design set his kingdom apart from others, showcasing the fulfillment of God's promise to make Solomon the wisest and richest king (<a href="/1_kings/3-12.htm">1 Kings 3:12-13</a>). This phrase also highlights the historical and cultural significance of Solomon's achievements, as his reign became a benchmark for prosperity and divine favor. The uniqueness of the throne can be seen as a foreshadowing of the unparalleled kingdom of Christ, whose reign will surpass all earthly kingdoms in glory and righteousness.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>The king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the temple and his palace.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a></b><br>The capital city of Israel where Solomon's throne was located.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_throne_of_solomon.htm">The Throne of Solomon</a></b><br>A magnificent throne made of ivory and overlaid with gold, symbolizing Solomon's wealth and the splendor of his reign.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/l/lions.htm">Lions</a></b><br>Symbolic creatures representing strength and majesty, used as decorative elements on Solomon's throne.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_kingdom_of_israel.htm">The Kingdom of Israel</a></b><br>Under Solomon's rule, it was a powerful and prosperous kingdom, attracting visitors from all over the world.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/s/symbolism_of_strength_and_majesty.htm">Symbolism of Strength and Majesty</a></b><br>The lions on Solomon's throne symbolize strength and majesty. As Christians, we are called to reflect the strength and majesty of Christ in our lives.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_uniqueness_of_god's_kingdom.htm">The Uniqueness of God's Kingdom</a></b><br>Just as Solomon's throne was unparalleled, the kingdom of God is unique and unmatched. We are invited to be part of this kingdom through faith in Christ.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_and_wealth.htm">Wisdom and Wealth</a></b><br>Solomon's wealth and wisdom were gifts from God. We should seek wisdom from God and use our resources to honor Him and serve others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_temporary_nature_of_earthly_splendor.htm">The Temporary Nature of Earthly Splendor</a></b><br>While Solomon's throne was magnificent, it was temporary. We should focus on building treasures in heaven, which are eternal.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/christ_as_the_true_king.htm">Christ as the True King</a></b><br>Solomon's reign points to the greater reign of Christ, the true King whose kingdom will never end. We should submit to His authority and follow His example.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_kings_10.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Kings 10</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_solomon's_throne_description_exaggerated.htm">In 1 Kings 10:18-20, is there any external record or artifact supporting the intricate details of Solomon’s throne, or does this description seem exaggerated?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_does_god_endorse_jehu's_violence.htm">Why does God apparently endorse Jehu's violent actions in 2 Kings 10:30, when other passages condemn such bloodshed?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_2_samuel_10_6's_troop_hire_credible.htm">According to 2 Samuel 10:6, how credible is the large-scale hiring of Aramean troops, and does historical evidence verify such military alliances for the period?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/proof_solomon's_wisdom_wealth_true.htm">2 Chronicles 1:10 - Is there historical or archeological proof that Solomon's wisdom and wealth matched the biblical account?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_kings/10.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 20.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other, upon the six steps</span> [It is somewhat doubtful whether there were twelve or fourteen lions in all. Most commentators assume that there were fourteen, and the text will certainly bear that construction. But it is altogether more likely that there were twelve; that is to say, that the two lions on the topmost step are the two mentioned in the preceding verse as "standing beside the stays," otherwise there would have been four lions on that step. And we all know that <span class="accented">twelve</span> had a significance such as could not attach to any other number (Bahr, Symbolik, 1:201-205; 2:133, 423). It would signify that all the tribes had an interest in the royal house (cf. <a href="/1_kings/12-16.htm">1 Kings 12:16</a>; <a href="/2_samuel/20-1.htm">2 Samuel 20:1</a>); and a right of approach to the throne (cf. <a href="/1_kings/18-31.htm">1 Kings 18:31</a>). The lion, a familiar emblem of sovereignty among many nations, had an especial appropriateness in this case, as being the symbol of the tribe of Judah (<a href="/genesis/49-9.htm">Genesis 49:9</a>; cf. <a href="/numbers/23-24.htm">Numbers 23:24</a>; <a href="/numbers/24-9.htm">Numbers 24:9</a>). We are to see in them partly "symbols of the ruler's authority" (Keil), and partly, perhaps, they represented the twelve tribes as guardians of the throne. "The king mounted between figures of lions to his seat on the throne, and sat between figures of lions upon it" (Wordsworth). Thrones somewhat similar to this in character, but much less magnificent, are represented on the Assyrian monuments. The historian might justly add]: <span class="cmt_word">there was not the like made</span> [Heb. <span class="accented">not</span> <span class="accented">made so</span>] <span class="accented"><span class="cmt_word"></span>in any kingdom.</span> <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/1_kings/10-20.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Twelve</span><br /><span class="heb">וּשְׁנֵ֧ים</span> <span class="translit">(ū·šə·nêm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Number - md<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8147.htm">Strong's 8147: </a> </span><span class="str2">Two (a cardinal number)</span><br /><br /><span class="word">lions</span><br /><span class="heb">אֲרָיִ֗ים</span> <span class="translit">(’ă·rā·yîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_738.htm">Strong's 738: </a> </span><span class="str2">A lion</span><br /><br /><span class="word">stood</span><br /><span class="heb">עֹמְדִ֥ים</span> <span class="translit">(‘ō·mə·ḏîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5975.htm">Strong's 5975: </a> </span><span class="str2">To stand, in various relations</span><br /><br /><span class="word">on</span><br /><span class="heb">עַל־</span> <span class="translit">(‘al-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> </span><span class="str2">Above, over, upon, against</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the six</span><br /><span class="heb">שֵׁ֥שׁ</span> <span class="translit">(šêš)</span><br /><span class="parse">Number - feminine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8337.htm">Strong's 8337: </a> </span><span class="str2">Six (a cardinal number)</span><br /><br /><span class="word">steps,</span><br /><span class="heb">הַֽמַּעֲל֖וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(ham·ma·‘ă·lō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - feminine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4609.htm">Strong's 4609: </a> </span><span class="str2">Elevation, the act, the condition, a climactic progression</span><br /><br /><span class="word">one at either end</span><br /><span class="heb">מִזֶּ֣ה</span> <span class="translit">(miz·zeh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Pronoun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2088.htm">Strong's 2088: </a> </span><span class="str2">This, that</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of each [step].</span><br /><span class="heb">וּמִזֶּ֑ה</span> <span class="translit">(ū·miz·zeh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw, Preposition-m | Pronoun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2088.htm">Strong's 2088: </a> </span><span class="str2">This, that</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Nothing</span><br /><span class="heb">לֹֽא־</span> <span class="translit">(lō-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb - Negative particle<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not, no</span><br /><br /><span class="word">like [this]</span><br /><span class="heb">כֵ֖ן</span> <span class="translit">(ḵên)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3651.htm">Strong's 3651: </a> </span><span class="str2">So -- thus</span><br /><br /><span class="word">had ever been made</span><br /><span class="heb">נַעֲשָׂ֥ה</span> <span class="translit">(na·‘ă·śāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Perfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6213.htm">Strong's 6213: </a> </span><span class="str2">To do, make</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for any</span><br /><span class="heb">לְכָל־</span> <span class="translit">(lə·ḵāl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> </span><span class="str2">The whole, all, any, every</span><br /><br /><span class="word">kingdom.</span><br /><span class="heb">מַמְלָכֽוֹת׃</span> <span class="translit">(mam·lā·ḵō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4467.htm">Strong's 4467: </a> </span><span class="str2">Kingdom, sovereignty, dominion, reign</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/1_kings/10-20.htm">1 Kings 10:20 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/1_kings/10-20.htm">OT History: 1 Kings 10:20 Twelve lions stood there on the one (1Ki iKi i Ki 1 Kg 1kg) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_kings/10-19.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Kings 10:19"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Kings 10:19" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_kings/10-21.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Kings 10:21"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Kings 10:21" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>