What was Aloth?

Aloth was a geographical location in ancient Israel mentioned in 1 Kings 4:16, as part of King Solomon’s administrative districts. The verse identifies Baana son of Hushai as the official placed “in Asher and in Aloth.” While the exact location of Aloth remains uncertain, it is listed in the context of Solomon’s organized governance system, which divided Israel into twelve districts, each responsible for providing food for the king’s household for one month of the year.

The Hebrew name Aloth (אֲלוֹת, Aloth) is derived from a root that may relate to going up, ascent, or elevation, which would suggest it was located in a hilly or mountainous region, possibly an elevated city or district. However, due to the limited information in Scripture and the absence of this name elsewhere in biblical geography, some scholars propose that “Aloth” might be a scribal variation or an alternative name for another location—possibly Beth-aloth or a region within Asher.

Biblical References

• 1 Kings 4:16 – “Baana son of Hushai—in Asher and in Aloth.”

This is the only direct biblical mention of Aloth, and it appears within a list of twelve governors under Solomon’s rule. These officials managed different territories, including well-known regions and cities such as Arubboth, Socoh, and Jezreel.

Explanation and Historical Context

Solomon’s Administrative Division

In 1 Kings 4, Solomon’s reign is characterized by wisdom, peace, and prosperity. One significant administrative reform he implemented was dividing the kingdom into twelve districts. These divisions were not strictly tribal; rather, they were designed for economic efficiency. Each district was tasked with providing provisions for the royal court for one month out of the year (1 Kings 4:7).

Aloth, grouped with Asher, represents one of these regions. The pairing of the names suggests Aloth may have been a city or sub-region within the broader tribal territory of Asher, which was located in the northern part of Israel along the Mediterranean coast.

Geographic Uncertainty

The exact site of Aloth has not been definitively identified by archaeologists or biblical geographers. The mention is brief and not repeated elsewhere in Scripture. Some Bible translations or commentators omit the name or attempt to harmonize it with known locations. Despite this, its inclusion in the administrative structure under Solomon implies it was a recognized and populated area at the time.

Theological Implications

While Aloth may appear insignificant at first glance, its inclusion in the biblical record holds value. Every detail in Scripture serves a purpose. In this case, the mention of Aloth contributes to the broader picture of Solomon’s ordered and prosperous kingdom, reflecting God’s blessing on Israel when the king walked in wisdom and obedience.

Theologically, it shows that God values order, stewardship, and the inclusion of all parts of His kingdom—even lesser-known or unnamed individuals and places. Nothing escapes His notice. The fact that Aloth is named once, in passing, yet preserved in inspired Scripture, reminds believers that no region or role in God‘s kingdom is too small or forgotten.

Literary Analysis

The list in 1 Kings 4:7-19 is structured deliberately, highlighting the efficiency and comprehensive nature of Solomon’s rule. The narrative technique includes short notations of names and places, contributing to the theme of divine blessing and human responsibility. Aloth’s pairing with Asher follows a literary pattern found throughout the passage, where lesser-known locales are grouped with more prominent ones.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 33:24-25 – Moses blesses the tribe of Asher with abundance and strength, which likely applies to the region that includes Aloth.

• Joshua 19:24-31 – This passage outlines the tribal inheritance of Asher, possibly including Aloth within its boundaries.

• 1 Kings 4:7-19 – The full listing of Solomon’s twelve district governors.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

For modern believers, the mention of Aloth reinforces several principles:

1. God’s awareness and inclusion – Even the seemingly minor regions and roles are known to God and part of His providential plan.

2. The importance of faithful administration – Solomon‘s kingdom flourished because of intentional, organized governance, echoing the biblical principle that God is not a God of confusion but of order (1 Corinthians 14:33).

3. Unity in diversity – Aloth, though obscure, had its place in the larger function of the kingdom. Likewise, Christians today have different gifts and callings, yet each is vital to the health and function of the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

How Aloth Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Aloth, as part of Solomon’s kingdom, symbolizes a small piece of a greater whole—a nation living under the rule of a wise and divinely appointed king. This foreshadows the Kingdom of God under Jesus Christ, the greater Solomon (Matthew 12:42). Jesus is the King who governs not just twelve districts, but the entire cosmos with perfect justice, wisdom, and love.

Just as Aloth had a role in supporting the household of Solomon, believers have a role in serving Christ and His mission on earth. No role is too minor. No place is too remote. Every part contributes to the glory of the King.

Broader Biblical Themes

• The Sovereignty of God – Every region, leader, and role is under God’s sovereign control and known to Him.

• Divine Order and Wisdom – God values structure and order, demonstrated in Solomon’s administrative system.

• Inclusiveness of God‘s Kingdom – Aloth’s obscure mention still reflects God‘s attention to all members of His covenant people.

Reflection Questions

1. What does the mention of obscure places like Aloth reveal about God‘s knowledge and care?

2. How can you be faithful in the “small” role God has given you, knowing that even minor responsibilities matter in His kingdom?

3. How does the organization and peace in Solomon’s kingdom point to the greater peace Jesus brings to those who follow Him?

4. In what ways can the Church today learn from Solomon’s model of structured service and provision?

5. How can we be reminded through Aloth that every part of God’s people has a purpose, even if not widely recognized?

Even in the smallest footnotes of Scripture, God’s truth and glory are revealed. Aloth reminds us that no part of God‘s kingdom is forgotten or wasted.