MPV Commentary

Solomon formed an alliance with Pharaoh by marrying his daughter. This royal marriage was a significant recognition of Israel's growing influence and power in the region. The Egyptian princess was welcomed into her adopted land with great fanfare.

She was brought to Jerusalem, but not allowed to enter the stronghold of Zion, where the ark was kept (Deuteronomy 23:7-8). Initially, she resided in a suitable accommodation provided by Solomon's mother, as a new palace had not yet been built for her (1 Kings 7:8; 9:24; 2 Chronicles 8:11).

Solomon also began building the wall of Jerusalem to encircle the city. Although David had started this project (Psalm 51:18), Solomon completed and extended the fortifications. Some have questioned whether this marriage was in accordance with God's law, citing Exodus 34:16; Deuteronomy 7:3; Ezra 10:1-10; and Nehemiah 13:26. However, Scripture does not condemn this union as it does other foreign connections (1 Kings 11:1-3). It is possible that Solomon had stipulated for the princess to abandon her idolatrous practices and adopt the Jewish faith (Psalm 45:10-11).