Topical Encyclopedia Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is one of the most renowned figures in the Bible, celebrated for his unparalleled wisdom and the fame that spread throughout the ancient world. His reign as the third king of Israel is marked by peace, prosperity, and monumental achievements, most notably the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem.Divine Gift of Wisdom Solomon's wisdom is a central theme in his narrative, beginning with a divine encounter at Gibeon. In a dream, God appeared to Solomon, offering him anything he desired. Solomon, recognizing the immense responsibility of ruling a great nation, asked for wisdom to govern his people effectively. Pleased with Solomon's request, God granted him "a wise and discerning heart" (1 Kings 3:12), along with riches and honor, ensuring that no king would compare to him in his lifetime. Judicial Wisdom One of the most famous demonstrations of Solomon's wisdom is the judgment involving two women who claimed to be the mother of the same child. Solomon proposed to divide the living child in two, giving half to each woman. The true mother immediately pleaded for the child's life to be spared, revealing her identity through her compassion. This judgment not only resolved the dispute but also solidified Solomon's reputation for profound insight and understanding (1 Kings 3:16-28). Proverbs and Ecclesiastes Solomon's wisdom is further evidenced in the biblical books attributed to him, particularly Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. The Book of Proverbs is a collection of sayings and teachings that offer practical guidance on living a life pleasing to God. Ecclesiastes, on the other hand, reflects on the meaning of life and the pursuit of fulfillment, often emphasizing the transient nature of worldly pleasures and the importance of fearing God. Fame and International Relations Solomon's wisdom and the prosperity of his kingdom attracted the attention of rulers from distant lands. The Queen of Sheba's visit is a testament to his widespread fame. She came to test Solomon with hard questions, bringing a caravan of gifts. Impressed by his wisdom and the splendor of his court, she praised the God of Israel, acknowledging that Solomon's wisdom exceeded the reports she had heard (1 Kings 10:1-9). Architectural Achievements Solomon's reign is also marked by significant architectural accomplishments, most notably the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. This monumental project, completed in seven years, became the central place of worship for the Israelites and a symbol of God's presence among His people. Solomon's palace and other building projects further demonstrated his administrative acumen and the wealth of his kingdom (1 Kings 6-7). Legacy Solomon's wisdom and fame left an indelible mark on Israel's history and the biblical narrative. His reign is often seen as a golden age of peace and prosperity, a time when Israel reached the zenith of its power and influence. Despite his later years being marred by idolatry and political challenges, Solomon's legacy as a wise and discerning king endures, offering timeless lessons on leadership, justice, and the pursuit of godly wisdom. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 4:29-34And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 10:3,4,8,23,24 1 Chronicles 29:24,25 2 Chronicles 9:2-7,22,23 Ecclesiastes 1:16 Matthew 12:42 Library A Royal Seeker after Wisdom Solomon The Great Gain of Godliness But that the Object of Christianity is that we Should Become Wise. ... The History of Solomon The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs Results of Transgression A Greater than Solomon Men Entrust their Safety Rather to a Just than to a Prudent Man. . ... A Ruler who Wronged his People Resources Who are the daughters of Jerusalem in Song of Solomon? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Testament of Solomon? | GotQuestions.org Why does Solomon refer to his wife as his sister (Song of Solomon 4:9)? | 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 |
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