Solomon's acquisition of horses from Egypt and from Kue (Cilicia in Asia Minor) reveals the international trade networks through which he maintained military supplies and the degree to which his kingdom participated in broader Near Eastern commerce. The specification of Egypt as a source indicates ongoing diplomatic and economic relationship with that major power, despite the absence of direct military alliance. The inclusion of Cilicia as an alternative source suggests diversification of procurement to avoid excessive dependence on any single supplier. The regular flow of horses from these distant sources required substantial economic outlay but ensured that Solomon maintained the mounted military capability necessary to defend his extensive territories and project power throughout the region. The royal monopoly on horse trading (indicated by the restriction that merchants could not sell independently) ensured that the king controlled access to this strategic resource.

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