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1
A Symbol of Royal Excess
Several commentators question the literal accuracy of 700 wives and 300 concubines, suggesting a possible textual corruption or exaggeration. They note that in the ancient East, a large harem was primarily a symbol of a king's power and magnificence, and many of the relationships would have been nominal or political.
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1 Kings
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Commentaries
5
Albert Barnes
On 1 Kings 11:3
18th Century
Theologian
These numbers seem excessive to many critics, and it must be admitted that history offers no parallel to them. In Song of Solomon 6:8, t…
Charles Ellicott
On 1 Kings 11:1–8
19th Century
Bishop
Solomon's falling away is distinctly traced to his polygamy, contracting numerous marriages with “strange women.” Polygamy is also attributed to Da…
John Gill
On 1 Kings 11:3
17th Century
Pastor
And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred
concubines
In all 1000,…
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Matthew Henry
On 1 Kings 11:1–8
17th Century
Minister
There is not a more melancholy and astonishing instance of human depravity in the sacred Scriptures than the one recorded here. Solomon became a pu…