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,

1 Kings 9:20 (KJV)

Context

This verse appears in the account of King Solomon after the temple in Jerusalem was finished. In the preceding verses, Solomon offered sacrifices to the Lord and received God’s promise of presence and blessing, but only if he would walk in God’s ways and keep His statutes and commandments.

The verse names the people who remained in the land: the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. These nations lived in Canaan before the Israelites entered it. The verse makes clear that these survivors were not of the children of Israel.

Meaning

The listing of these five nations is not accidental. It shows that the conquest under Joshua was not complete. God had told Israel to drive out the inhabitants, but they did not fully obey. So these groups continued to dwell in the land, even into Solomon’s time.

The phrase “which were not of the children of Israel” separates them from God’s covenant people. They were outsiders living among Israel. Some of them may have become proselytes, but the text does not say this clearly. The main point is their distinct identity.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in 2 Chronicles 8:7 lists the same groups, confirming the historical record. The following verses in 1 Kings 9 show that Solomon conscripted these remaining peoples for forced labor. This was a direct result of their continued presence.

The incomplete conquest had long-term consequences. The presence of these nations exposed Israel to idolatrous practices and false gods. Over time, this influence led to spiritual decline and eventually to God’s discipline and judgment.

Application

This verse warns believers about the danger of leaving ungodly influences in their lives. Just as Israel failed to remove these nations, we may fail to remove sinful habits or worldly customs. What remains can later become a snare.

Faithfulness to God requires complete obedience, not partial. The command to drive out the nations was clear, and Israel’s failure brought trouble. In the same way, believers are called to follow God’s ways without compromise.

Reflection

Consider what “remnants” may remain in your own heart. Are there practices or beliefs that you have not fully surrendered to God? The presence of these nations among Israel serves as a cautionary reminder to stay committed to God’s commands.

God’s promise to Abraham was fulfilled when Israel entered the land, but the story did not end there. The choices of later generations determined whether they would enjoy God’s blessing. This verse calls us to learn from their example and to walk faithfully with the Lord.