Journal: Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society
Volume: JETS 04:2 (Oct 1961)
Article: Critical Note: A Sugggestion Concerning The Chronology Of Solomon’s Reign
Author: Stanley M. Horton

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Critical Note: A Sugggestion Concerning
The Chronology Of Solomon’s Reign

Stanley M. Horton

We first must find a date for the Exodus. I am personally convinced of the early date theory. Some current advocates of the early date theory suggest 1447 as the date of the Exodus.1 Since it is probable that Isaiah’s mention of Tirhakah calls for another western campaign of Sennacherib after 701 B.C.,2 Egyptologists have revised downward their datings of the Pharaohs quite frequently. Professor Albright seems to think however that they have reached a more stable level now.3 Assuming this is so, the most probable dates for the deaths of Thutmosis II and III are 1495 B.C. and 1440 B.C. The Pharaoh mentioned in Exodus 2:23 can hardly be Thutmosis II, but Thutmosis III would fit the account very well. Leaving a couple of years for Moses’ journey to Egypt and for the plagues, this puts the Exodus in 1438 B.C. at the earliest.

This now poses a problem in regard to Soloman’s reign. According to 1 Kings 6:1, the fourth year of Solomon’s reign was the 480th after Israel left Egypt. Counting 1438 B.C. as the first year, this gives 959-58 B.C. as Solomon’s first year. At first glance this would seem to call for 923 B.C. as the date marking the end of Solomon’s forty year reign (1 Kings 11:42). However, 930 B.C. as proposed by Thiele and others seems more reasonable.4

What shall we do with the extra seven years? Most recent chronologies do not take into account the clearly pictured period of Solomon’s co-regency with David. Adonijah’s intrigues forced David to proclaim Solomon king some time before David died. It seems reasonable that Solomon’s forty years include this period. Furthermore, according to 1 Chronicles 29:22, shortly before David died, after David’s many preparations for the Temple, David and the people made Solomon king “the second time.” Perhaps this is the answer. It is not impossible that Solomon’s fourth year is counted from this second public anointing. Certainly, the chronicler’s account could be interpreted in this way. Nor should we disregard what Chronicles has to say. Albright in another place argues that archaeology does not uphold the low value critics assign to the historical material in Chronicles.5

This seven year overlapping of David’s and Solomon’s reigns would give time for David’s new inspiration for encouraging his young son and for co...

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