Who is the Queen of the South in the Bible?

Meaning of the Title “Queen of the South”

This title appears in the New Testament to describe a royal figure who journeyed to hear Solomon’s wisdom. In Matthew 12:42, we read, “The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it.” The designation “Queen of the South” specifically points to the individual more commonly known as the Queen of Sheba. Her kingdom lay in a region south of Israel, traditionally identified with the areas of southwestern Arabia (modern-day Yemen) and sometimes connected with ancient Sabaean cultures.

Old Testament References: The Queen of Sheba

In the Old Testament, 1 Kings 10:1–13 and 2 Chronicles 9:1–12 recount the visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon’s court. She came with many gifts and challenging questions, seeking to test Solomon’s divinely bestowed wisdom. While the Old Testament passages do not label her “Queen of the South,” they detail how her journey and her lavish tribute demonstrated profound respect for Solomon’s reputation and his God-given insight:

• 1 Kings 10:1 records, “Now when the queen of Sheba heard about the fame of Solomon in relation to the name of the LORD, she came to test him with difficult questions.”

• The subsequent verses describe her astonishment at Solomon’s wisdom, wealth, and the splendor of his court. She proclaimed, “Blessed be the LORD your God, who has delighted in you to set you on the throne of Israel” (1 Kings 10:9).

This narrative suggests she recognized not merely Solomon’s intelligence but the greatness of the God who granted Solomon such wisdom.

Archaeological and Historical Background

Archaeological findings in the region traditionally associated with Sheba (southwestern Arabia, particularly modern Yemen) have revealed evidence of a wealthy and powerful Sabean kingdom. Inscriptions and historical references to trade routes, such as those that transported spices and precious stones, support the biblical depiction of a prosperous land capable of sending a caravan loaded with wealth.

Some scholars connect the city of Marib with ancient Saba, pointing to extensive irrigation systems (like the renowned Marib Dam) as indicators of an advanced civilization. While direct inscriptions referencing a “Queen of Sheba” have yet to be discovered, the overall historical and cultural context aligns with the biblical account of a monarch ruling a wealthy kingdom in this southern region around the time of Solomon’s reign, commonly dated to the 10th century BC.

New Testament References: Jesus’ Mention of the Queen of the South

In the Gospels, Jesus brings the Queen of Sheba into a powerful illustration of judgment and repentance. Matthew 12:42 reads, “The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and now One greater than Solomon is here.” A similar statement appears in Luke 11:31.

This reference underscores her role as a witness against those who reject divine truth. Just as she traveled a great distance to seek godly wisdom, Jesus points out that His contemporary audiences were ignoring a far greater source of wisdom standing in their midst. By highlighting her example, Jesus stresses the importance of recognizing and responding to truth when it is revealed.

Theological and Spiritual Significance

1. Recognition of Divine Wisdom: The Queen of the South exemplifies genuine humility and open-hearted pursuit of truth. Her willingness to travel across vast distances to hear Solomon serves as a model of earnest spiritual inquiry.

2. Emphasis on Accountability: Jesus’ words about the Queen of the South rising at judgment show that seeking and embracing truth bears eternal implications. Those with far greater access to truth (as in Jesus’ day or in modern contexts) are held accountable for their response.

3. Inclusion of the Nations: Her presence in Scripture highlights that God’s truth stands open to all peoples, prefiguring the many instances in Scripture where God includes those beyond Israel in His plan of salvation (e.g., Rahab, Ruth, and others).

4. Consistency of Scripture: From the Old Testament historical account to Jesus’ teaching in the Gospels, the mention of this royal figure coherently illustrates a unified biblical message about wisdom, confession of faith, and judgment.

Conclusion

The “Queen of the South” referenced by Jesus is firmly identified as the Queen of Sheba from 1 Kings 10 and 2 Chronicles 9. Known for her profound journey to verify the wisdom of King Solomon, she stands as a testament to the reliability of the biblical narrative. Historical and archaeological data about the Sabean kingdom lend credibility to the biblical setting of her reign and her ability to present significant wealth.

Presenting a challenge to all generations, her story underscores the value of earnest seeking after divine truth. Jesus’ application of her example reminds us that the pursuit of wisdom—especially the wisdom manifest in God’s revelation—remains an opportunity and a responsibility for every believer and non-believer alike.