1 Kings 11:3

“And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines, etc.] In all 1000, a prodigious number; though these might not be all for use, but for state after the manner of the eastern monarchs; these were a far greater number than are alluded to in (<220608>Song of Solomon 6:8), unless the virgins without number there, were such of these as were not defiled by him; but the number here seems plainly referred to in (<210728>Ecclesiastes 7:28), and his wives turned away his heart; both from his duty to his God, and from attendance to his business as a king, especially the former, as follows.”

“he had seven hundred wives, princesses--They were, probably, according to an existing custom, the daughters of tributary chiefs, given as hostages for good conduct of their fathers. concubines--were legitimate, but lower or secondary wives. These the chief or first wife regards without the smallest jealousy or regret, as they look up to her with feelings of respectful submission. Solomon's wives became numerous, not all at once, but gradually. Even at an early period his taste for Oriental show seems to have led to the establishment of a considerable harem (Sol 6:8).”

“These numbers seem excessive to many critics, and it must be admitted that history furnishes no parallel to them. In Song of Solomon 6:8 the number of Solomon’s legitimate wives is said to be sixty, and that of his concubines eighty. It is, perhaps probable, that the text has in this place suffered corruption. For “700” we should perhaps read “70.” return to 'Top of Page'”

“Seven hundred wives, &c. - God had particularly forbidden the kings to multiply either horses or wives, Deu 17:16-17, we saw Kg1 10:29, how he broke the former law, multiplying horses: and here we see, how he broke the latter, multiplying wives. David set the example. One ill act of a good man may do more mischief than twenty of a wicked man. Besides, they were strange women, of the nations which God had expressly forbidden them to marry with. And to compleat the mischief, he clave unto these in love; was extravagantly fond of them, Solomon had much knowledge. But to what purpose, when he knew not how to govern his appetites? 3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:4”

“seven hundred: Jdg 8:30, Jdg 8:31, Jdg 9:5; Sa2 3:2-5, Sa2 5:13-16; Ch2 11:21; Ecc 7:28 3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:4”