King Solomon

King Solomon
King of Israel
Reign	c. 970–931 BCE
Predecessor	King David
Successor	King Rehoboam
Died	c. 931 BCE
Dynasty	House of David
Father	King David
Mother	Bathsheba
Religion	Yahwism

King Solomon was a biblical figure and the third king of the United Monarchy of Israel, succeeding his father, King David. Solomon is most renowned for his wisdom, wealth, and the building of the First Temple in Jerusalem. His reign is traditionally dated to around 970 to 931 BCE.

Biography

Early Life

Solomon was the son of King David and Bathsheba, and he was born in Jerusalem. According to biblical accounts, Solomon was chosen by David to be his successor over his older brothers because of his wise judgement and prudent nature.

Reign

During Solomon's reign, Israel experienced a period of great peace and prosperity. Solomon is credited with expanding the kingdom's military, increasing international trade, and fostering economic prosperity. His most famous architectural achievement was the construction of the First Temple, which became the central place of worship for the Israelites and housed the Ark of the Covenant.

Wisdom and Writings

Solomon is celebrated for his wisdom, which is highlighted in several biblical texts. The best known story of his wisdom is the Judgment of Solomon, where he resolved a dispute over the maternity of a child by suggesting the child be divided in two, revealing the true mother by her horrified reaction.

Solomon is traditionally attributed as the author of several biblical books, including Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon, each of which offers insights into his thoughts on justice, leadership, and human nature.

Legacy

Solomon's reign is often seen as the golden age of Israel, a time of wealth and stability before the eventual division into the northern kingdom and the Kingdom of Judah. However, his later years were marked by political problems and idolatry, which according to the Bible, led to the kingdom's division after his death.

Death and Succession

Solomon died around 931 BCE and was succeeded by his son, Rehoboam, who faced immediate challenges that led to the split of the united monarchy into two separate kingdoms.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Solomon remains a significant figure in the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. In Islam, he is known as Sulaiman, a prophet and a king, renowned for his wisdom and his ability to communicate with animals and jinn.

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|style="width:30%;" rowspan="1"|Preceded by

King David

| style="width: 40%; text-align: center;" rowspan="1"| King of Israel
c. 970–931 BCE

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Succeeded by

King Rehoboam

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