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1 Kings 10

29 verses

TL;DR

The Queen of Sheba visits Solomon, tests his wisdom, is amazed by his wealth and the splendor of Jerusalem, and brings an abundance of gold and spices; Solomon returns her gifts and the chapter details his vast riches and building projects.

Summary

Solomon receives the Queen of Sheba, who arrives with a caravan of spices, gold, and precious stones to test his wisdom. She witnesses the grandeur of Jerusalem, Solomon’s wise counsel, and the abundance of his provisions, then gives him a large tribute. Solomon reciprocates by granting her every desire and lavishly distributes wealth among his subjects. The chapter lists Solomon’s wealth in gold, silver, ivory, and other precious materials, his naval trade with Ophir and Tharshish, and his military strength with chariots and horsemen. The narrative underscores Solomon’s unrivaled wisdom and divine favor, and portrays the prosperity of Israel in its golden age.

Outline
  1. Visit of the Queen of Sheba and exchange of gifts, showcasing Solomon’s wisdom and Israel’s wealth.
  2. Detailed description of Solomon’s material wealth, trade routes, building projects, and military resources.
  3. Emphasis on Solomon’s superiority over other kings, highlighting his wisdom, prosperity, and divine endorsement.
Themes
Divine wisdom and favorMaterial wealth and its displayDiplomatic relations and international tribute
Keywords
SolomonQueen of ShebawisdomgoldspicestradeHiramOphirTharshishivoryalmug treeschariotshorses
People
SolomonQueen of ShebaHiramTharshishKing of Arabia (unnamed)Kings of SyriaKings of the Hittites
Places
JerusalemSaba (Sheba)OphirTyreTharshishEgyptSyriaHittite landsForest of Lebanon
Things
goldspicesprecious stonesalmug treesivory thronelion statuesbeaten gold targetsgolden shieldschariotshorseslinen yarnsilverivory
Key Verses
  • 1 Kings 10:1: Introduction of the Queen of Sheba’s mission to test Solomon’s wisdom.
  • 1 Kings 10:5: Describes Solomon’s grandeur and the Queen's astonishment.
  • 1 Kings 10:10: Highlights the extraordinary gifts of gold and spices given to Solomon.
  • 1 Kings 10:23: Affirms Solomon’s superiority over all other kings in terms of wealth and wisdom.
Questions
  • What does the Queen of Sheba’s visit reveal about Solomon’s reputation beyond Israel?
  • How does Solomon’s use of wealth reflect biblical attitudes toward riches?
  • What is the significance of the gifts of gold and spices in the context of ancient diplomacy?
  • In what ways does the chapter illustrate the relationship between divine favor and material prosperity?
Sentiment

positive
The text celebrates Solomon’s wisdom and abundance, portraying a tone of admiration and praise.