1 Kings 9:24

But Pharaoh’s daughter came up out of the city of David unto her house which Solomon had built for her: then did he build Millo.

1 Kings 9:24 (KJV)

Context

Solomon had just finished the Temple and dedicated it to the Lord. Afterward, God appeared to him again with promises and warnings. This verse records a later moment in Solomon’s building work, showing his careful order of projects.

Meaning

Pharaoh’s daughter, Solomon’s wife, moved from the city of David to the house Solomon had built for her. The city of David was the original Jebusite stronghold on the Ophel ridge, south of the Temple mount. It was considered holy because the ark of the covenant had rested there for a time. Solomon first placed his Egyptian wife there while her house was still being built. Once it was ready, she moved out, and only then did Solomon build the Millo.

The Millo was a terraced fortification or earthwork that filled a gap between the city of David and the Temple mount. It strengthened Jerusalem’s defenses. The sequence shows Solomon’s priorities: first the Temple, then his own palace, then the queen’s house, and then the Millo. This order placed worship and the royal household before further civic fortification.

Biblical connections

This marriage to Pharaoh’s daughter was a political alliance. Later, Solomon’s foreign wives turned his heart after other gods (1 Kings 11:1-8). This verse reminds us that even wise choices can become spiritual dangers.

Application

Solomon’s careful planning teaches us to order our work wisely, putting worship and family before other projects. Yet his later failure warns us to guard our hearts against compromises that seem advantageous.

Reflection

God sees both our public achievements and our private relationships. We should examine whether our alliances and priorities honor Him above all.