Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Kings 4:6

"and Ahishar was over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the men subject to taskwork." — 1 Kings 4:6 (ASV)

Over the household - Comptroller of the household, like the “Steward” of the Persian court. On the importance of this office, see 2 Kings 18:18, and compare Isaiah 22:15-25.

The tribute - The marginal reading, “levy,” is preferable. The reference is to the forced laborers whom Solomon employed in his great works (see the marginal reference).