מלכים א, פרק ז׳, פסוק ח׳

The construction of Solomon's royal complex involved both grand public structures and intimate private spaces. Beyond the areas dedicated to national administration, the palace grounds held the permanent living quarters for the king himself, as well as a distinct residence built specifically for the daughter of Pharaoh. The king's personal dwelling was a fully equipped, permanent home designed for his daily needs, including eating, drinking, and sleeping [רש"י, רלב"ג, מצודת דוד, מלבי"ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This residence was the central house established earlier in the construction process [רד"ק, מלבי"ם]. To ensure privacy, these living quarters were built in a secluded inner courtyard located behind one of the main halls. Commentators offer different views on the exact layout. One approach suggests the king's home was situated just inward from the House of the Forest of Lebanon [רש"י]. Another perspective places it behind the Hall of Judgment, following a natural architectural progression from the public exterior into the private royal domain [מצודת דוד]. These details reveal a complex, tiered structure of courtyards and halls that gradually led from the outside inward to the king's private chambers [מלבי"ם]. The architectural style of this private house and its surrounding courtyard matched the pattern of the rest of the palace. Specifically, it mirrored the design of the Hall of Judgment, featuring floors entirely paneled with cedar wood.

Once the primary structures were complete, Solomon established a separate, dedicated home for the daughter of Pharaoh within the palace compound [רש"י, מלבי"ם]. Although she was not his first wife, their marriage carried significant political importance, which is why she was provided with an exceptionally spacious and luxurious building [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This residence was crafted with the same high level of finish and architectural elegance as the Hall of Judgment, complete with magnificent cedar paneling [רלב"ג, רד"ק, מצודת דוד, מלבי"ם].