The Expositor's Bible: The First Book of Kings

A learned commentary offers a literary and historical introduction to the early Israelite monarchy, explores critical questions about authorship and purpose, and then proceeds to close readings of the narrative: the final days of an aging king, the rise and reign of his successor, the building and symbolism of the Temple, the polity's division, and the confrontations between rulers and prophets. The commentary emphasizes theological themes, ritual development, moral lessons, and includes chronological notes and a bibliography of scholarly authorities.