Solomon’s Princes

The text first states Solomon's rule over Israel, then introduces the circle of chief officials under him. Kingship is presented together with the ordered service that supports it.

S¹o King Solomon ruled over Israel, ²and these were his chief officials:

The officials are then named by office: secretaries, military command, oversight of governors, and palace administration. The list is plain and practical, giving the court a defined shape.

³Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were secretaries; ⁴Benaiah son of Jehoiada was in charge of the army; ⁵Azariah son of Nathan was in charge of the governors; ⁶Ahishar was in charge of the palace;