According to the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament Solomon was monarch of ancient Israel and the son and successor of David. He is described as having been the penultimate ruler of a combined Israel and Judah. The dates of Solomon’s reign are believed to be 970-931 BC.
Solomon built the first temple in Jerusalem, dedicating it to God. He is portrayed as wealthy, wise, and powerful and as one of the 48 Jewish prophets. In the New Testament he is depicted as a teacher of wisdom excelled by Jesus of Nazareth, and as arrayed in glory but excelled by “the lilies of the field.”
The life of Solomon is primarily described in 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, and 2 Chronicles. His name means “peaceful” and “friend of God,” both considered foreshadowing the character of his reign.
Solomon was born in Jerusalem, the second born child of David and his wife Bathsheba. The biblical narrative shows that Solomon served as a peace offering between God and David, due to David’s adulterous relationship with Bathsheba. Some historians cited that Nathan the prophet brought up Solomon, as his father David was busy governing the realm.
Solomon, as instructed by David, began his reign with an extensive purge, including his father’s chief general, Joab, and further consolidated his position by appointing friends throughout his administration, including in religious, civic, and military posts. It is said that Solomon ascended to the throne when he was only fifteen.
He greatly expanded his military strength, especially the calvary and chariot arms. He founded numerous colonies, some of which doubled as trading posts and military outposts. Trade relationships were a focus of his administration. He continued his father’s profitable relationship with the Phoenicians. They sent out joint expeditions to engage in the trade of luxury products, importing gold, silver, sandalwood, pearls, ivory, apes, and peacocks. Solomon is considered the wealthiest of the Israelite kings named in the Bible.
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The best-known example of his wisdom is the story of the two women each claiming to be the mother of the same baby. Solomon easily resolved the dispute by commanding the child to be cut in half and shared by the two. One woman promptly renounced her claim, saying that she would rather give up the child than see it killed. Solomon declared her to be the true mother.
Solomon has traditionally been considered the author of several biblical books, including Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs. The ancient Kingdom of Israel gained its highest splendor and wealth during his 40 year reign.