1 Kings 7:8 tells of the building of Solomon’s private residence and that of Pharaoh’s daughter, whom he had married (see the comment on 1 Kings 5:1). Only one verse is given to these two palaces. What shall we make of that observation? It may be that the writer is letting us know that it is not the private life of Solomon or his wives that interests him but his position as the ruler over Israel, the people of God.
It seems a bit unusual that while the writer says very little about Solomon’s private residence, still he takes the time to mention its position with reference to the other building of the royal complex, that is, in the other court back of the hall.
Therefore, we suggest that this is another witness to the relative importance that the writer attached to Solomon’s public duties as compared to his merely private interests. The language used is suggestive of a certain humbleness of place, as well, perhaps, as a wish for privacy.
8 His own house where he was to dwell, in the other court back of the hall, was of like workmanship. Solomon also made a house like this hall for Pharaoh’s daughter whom he had taken in marriage.