Topical Encyclopedia Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is one of the most renowned figures in biblical history, known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, most notably the First Temple in Jerusalem. His accession to the throne marks a significant transition in the history of Israel, as he succeeded his father, David, to become the third king of the united monarchy of Israel.Background and Ascension Solomon's path to the throne was not without challenges. As David's reign was drawing to a close, there was uncertainty about his successor. Adonijah, another son of David, attempted to claim the throne for himself. However, Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, and the prophet Nathan intervened, reminding David of his promise that Solomon would succeed him. In 1 Kings 1:30 , David reaffirms this promise: "Surely as I swore to you by the LORD, the God of Israel, saying, ‘Your son Solomon will reign after me, and he will sit on my throne in my place,’ I will indeed fulfill it this very day." David's decisive action ensured Solomon's anointing as king. In 1 Kings 1:39 , it is recorded, "Zadok the priest took the horn of oil from the tabernacle and anointed Solomon. Then they blew the ram’s horn, and all the people proclaimed, 'Long live King Solomon!'" Early Reign and Wisdom Solomon's early reign was marked by a consolidation of power and the establishment of his authority. One of his first acts as king was to deal with potential threats to his rule, including Adonijah and Joab, David's former military commander. Solomon's actions were seen as necessary to secure the stability of the kingdom. Solomon is perhaps best known for his wisdom, a gift from God. In a dream at Gibeon, God appeared to Solomon and offered him anything he desired. Solomon famously asked for wisdom to govern the people effectively. Pleased with this request, God granted him unparalleled wisdom, as well as wealth and honor. In 1 Kings 3:12-13 , God declares, "Behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you did not request—both riches and honor—so that during your lifetime you will have no equal among kings." Achievements and Legacy Solomon's reign is often considered a golden age for Israel. His wisdom became legendary, attracting visitors from distant lands, including the Queen of Sheba, who came to test him with hard questions. Solomon's administrative acumen and strategic alliances, such as his marriage to Pharaoh's daughter, helped to secure Israel's position among the nations. One of Solomon's most significant achievements was the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, a project initiated by his father, David. The Temple became the central place of worship for the Israelites and a symbol of God's presence among His people. In 1 Kings 6:1 , the construction is described: "In the four hundred and eightieth year after the Israelites had come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv, the second month, he began to build the house of the LORD." Solomon's reign, however, was not without its challenges and controversies. His extensive building projects and lavish lifestyle placed heavy burdens on the people, leading to discontent. Moreover, his marriages to foreign women and the subsequent introduction of idolatry into Israel sowed seeds of division that would later contribute to the kingdom's split after his death. Spiritual and Historical Significance Solomon's life and reign are rich with spiritual lessons and historical significance. His account is a testament to the blessings of wisdom and the dangers of turning away from God's commandments. Despite his failings, Solomon's contributions to Israel's history and his writings, including Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon, continue to influence and inspire. His reign is a pivotal chapter in the biblical narrative, illustrating the complexities of leadership and the enduring need for faithfulness to God. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 1:11-48Why Nathan spoke to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, saying, Have you not heard that Adonijah the son of Haggith does reign, and David our lord knows it not? Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 2:12 1 Chronicles 23:1 1 Chronicles 28:1 Ecclesiastes 1:12 Library The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs The Prophet Amos. On the Words Incarnate, and Made Man. Interpretation of Prophecy. Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna The First Great Deception The First Great Deception. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus On the Great Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria. Enduring to the End Resources Is Song of Solomon an allegory of God's love for Israel and/or Christ's love for the Church? | GotQuestions.orgHow did God respond when Solomon asked for wisdom? | GotQuestions.org Why didn't Solomon follow his own advice on women? | GotQuestions.org Solomon: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Solomon is Visited by the Queen of Sheba Solomon: An Ancestor of Joseph Solomon: Anointed King a Second Time Solomon: Builds Another House for Pharaoh's Daughter Solomon: Builds his House, the Forest of Lebanon Solomon: Builds Idolatrous Temples Solomon: Cedes some Inferior Cities to Hiram Solomon: Covenant Renewed in a Vision After the Dedication of the Temple Solomon: Divides his Kingdom Into Subsistence Departments Solomon: Drinking Vessels of his Houses Solomon: Extent of his Dominions Solomon: Has Seven-Hundred Wives and Three-Hundred Concubines Solomon: His Prayer for Wisdom, and his Vision Solomon: Imports Apes and Peacocks Solomon: Justice of, Illustrated in his Judgment of the Two Prostitutes Solomon: Marries One of Pharaoh's Daughters Solomon: Military Equipment of Solomon: Musicians and Musical Instruments of his Court Solomon: Named Jedidiah, by Nathan the Prophet Solomon: Plants Vineyards and Orchards of all Kinds of Fruit Trees; Makes Pools Solomon: Prophecies Concerning Solomon: Receives Tribute (Taxes) Solomon: Reigns for Forty Years Solomon: Renews the Courses of the Priests and Levites Solomon: Son of David by Bath-Sheba Solomon: Succeeds David to the Throne of Israel Solomon: The Splendor of his Court Solomon: Their Influence Over Him Related Terms Carriage-towns (3 Occurrences) |
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