Did Chiram realize only now that Shlomo is a Chacham?
Malbim (2, 11): Yes, because he requested only a small matter, which is proper according to Musar and etiquette, in a way that Chiram will understand that he should offer all that Shlomo wants. Also, Shlomo only hinted that he wants help also to build his own house, since he initially asked only for help to build Beis Hashem. Therefore, Chiram mentioned that Shlomo will build Beis Hashem and Beis Malchuso. 1
Surely Chiram was no less than all the other kings, who were in awe of Shlomo's Chachmah! Perhaps Malbim means that he now saw that Shlomo is a Chacham also in matters of Musar and etiquette. (PF)
How did Chiram know that Shlomo intends to build also a royal house?
Ralbag: Shlomo informed him.
Malbim: He inferred this from Shlomo's words (refer to 2:8:2:1 and the note there).
