1 Kings 9:20
“And all the people that were left of the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, which were not of the children of Israel.”
This verse is part of a passage describing King Solomon’s actions after the completion of the construction of the temple in Jerusalem.
In the previous verses, we read about how Solomon had offered sacrifices to the Lord and had a conversation with God, where the Lord assured him of His presence and blessings if Solomon would walk in His ways and keep His statutes and commandments.
1 Kings 9:20 specifically mentions the people who were left from various nations: the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites.
These nations were inhabitants of the land of Canaan prior to the Israelites’ conquest.
The verse implies that these remaining individuals from these nations were not part of the children of Israel.
This verse serves as a reminder of the historical context of the Israelites’ possession of the Promised Land.
God had promised Abraham that He would give the land of Canaan to his descendants, and this promise was fulfilled during the time of Joshua when the Israelites entered and conquered the land.
However, it is important to note that the Israelites did not completely annihilate or drive out all the inhabitants of the land, as God had initially instructed them to do.
Consequently, there were still remnants of these nations living among the Israelites.
The presence of these non‑Israelite people would later become a significant issue for the Israelites, as they would be influenced by the idolatrous practices and false gods of these nations.
This would eventually lead to a decline in the spiritual state of the Israelites and result in God’s discipline and judgment upon them.
1 Kings 9:20 reminds us of the importance of remaining faithful to God’s commands and avoiding the influence of sinful practices and false gods.
It is a cautionary reminder for believers to stay committed to God’s ways and not compromise their faith by following the customs and beliefs of the world.
Overall, this verse provides historical context and sets the stage for the challenges that the Israelites would face due to the presence of the remaining people from the conquered nations.
It highlights the need for the Israelites to remain faithful to God’s commandments and serves as a warning against the potential consequences of failing to do so.
