2 Chronicles 9:9

KJV

And she gave the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold, and of spices great abundance, and precious stones: neither was there any such spice as the queen of Sheba gave king Solomon.

KJV (with Strong's)

And she gave {H5414} the king {H4428} an hundred {H3967} and twenty {H6242} talents {H3603} of gold {H2091}, and of spices {H1314} great {H3966} abundance {H7230}, and precious {H3368} stones {H68}: neither was there any such spice {H1314} as the queen {H4436} of Sheba {H7614} gave {H5414} king {H4428} Solomon {H8010}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then she gave the king four tons of gold, spices in great abundance, and precious stones; there had never been spices like those the queen of Sh'va gave to King Shlomo.

Berean Standard Bible

Then she gave the king 120 talents of gold, a great quantity of spices, and precious stones. There had never been such spices as those the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon.

American Standard Version

And she gave the king a hundred and twenty talents of gold, and spices in great abundance, and precious stones: neither was there any such spice as the queen of Sheba gave to king Solomon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 9:9 meticulously records the unparalleled generosity of the Queen of Sheba, who presented King Solomon with an immense tribute of gold, an abundance of rare spices, and precious stones. This verse highlights the climax of her visit, underscoring not only her profound respect and awe for Solomon's divinely granted wisdom and the splendor of his kingdom but also the extraordinary nature of her offerings, particularly the spices, which were deemed unique and unmatched in their quality and quantity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a crucial part of the detailed account of the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon, which spans [2 Chronicles 9:1-12](/2_chronicles/9 "2 Chronicles 9 - The Queen of Sheba Visits Solomon"). The Chronicler parallels this narrative with [1 Kings 10:1-13](/1_kings/10 "1 Kings 10 - The Queen of Sheba and Solomon's Wealth"), emphasizing Solomon's extraordinary wisdom and wealth as a direct fulfillment of God's promise in [2 Chronicles 1:12](/2_chronicles/1-12 "2 Chronicles 1:12 - God's Promise of Wisdom and Wealth to Solomon"). The queen's visit, and especially her lavish gifts, serve as external validation of Solomon's unparalleled status and the glory of God manifested through him. The verse immediately follows her declaration of Solomon's wisdom and the blessedness of his people, setting the stage for the material expression of her awe and reverence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East was characterized by elaborate diplomatic exchanges, where gifts were not merely tokens of goodwill but often reflections of the giver's wealth, the recipient's status, and the nature of the relationship. The Queen of Sheba, likely ruling a prosperous kingdom in modern-day Yemen or Ethiopia, would have commanded significant resources, particularly in valuable commodities like gold, frankincense, and myrrh, which were integral to the lucrative trade routes of the Arabian Peninsula. Her journey to Jerusalem, a considerable undertaking, signifies the widespread renown of Solomon's kingdom. The sheer scale of her gifts, as detailed in this verse, was far beyond typical tribute, indicating a profound impression made by Solomon's wisdom and the visible prosperity of Israel, which was understood as a divine blessing.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Chronicles 9:9](/2_chronicles/9-9 "2 Chronicles 9:9 - The Queen of Sheba's Gifts to Solomon") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Chronicles. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Blessing and Wisdom**, where Solomon's unparalleled wealth and wisdom are consistently presented as direct results of God's covenant faithfulness and provision, as promised in [2 Chronicles 1:12](/2_chronicles/1-12 "2 Chronicles 1:12 - God's Promise to Solomon"). The queen's lavish gifts serve as tangible evidence of this divine favor, demonstrating that God's blessing extends to international recognition. Another key theme is **Solomon's Glory and Splendor**, which the Chronicler highlights to underscore the ideal state of the kingdom under a righteous king. The uniqueness and abundance of the gifts also point to the theme of **Unprecedented Abundance**, reflecting the prosperity of Israel under Solomon's reign, a prosperity that exceeded all previous and subsequent kings, as noted in [2 Chronicles 9:22](/2_chronicles/9-22 "2 Chronicles 9:22 - Solomon's Riches and Wisdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Talents (Hebrew, _kikkâr'_):** H3603. This term refers to a significant unit of weight, not a coin, typically estimated at around 75 pounds (approximately 34 kilograms). Thus, "an hundred and twenty talents of gold" represents an astonishing 9,000 pounds (over 4,000 kilograms) of gold. This staggering quantity underscores the immense wealth and generosity of the Queen of Sheba and the extraordinary value of her tribute, far exceeding what would be considered customary diplomatic gifts. It signifies a profound level of respect and awe.
* **Spices (Hebrew, _besem'_):** H1314. From a root meaning "fragrance," this word refers to highly prized aromatic substances used for incense, perfumes, anointing oils, and medicinal purposes in the ancient world. The phrase "great abundance" (H3966 _mᵉʼôd_ and H7230 _rôb_) and the subsequent declaration "neither was there any such spice" emphasize their extraordinary quantity, rarity, and exceptional quality. Such spices would have been extremely valuable, often transported over long distances, and their uniqueness suggests a special, perhaps even sacred, significance.
* **Precious stones (Hebrew, _ʼeben'_):** H68. This refers to gemstones of high value and rarity, qualified by the adjective _yâqâr_ (H3368), meaning "valuable" or "costly." While the specific types are not enumerated, their inclusion alongside gold and unique spices further highlights the opulence and preciousness of the queen's gifts. In the ancient world, precious stones were often associated with royalty, divine favor, and sometimes even magical or protective properties, adding to the grandeur of Solomon's court.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And she gave the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold":** This clause immediately establishes the immense scale of the queen's generosity. The specific quantity of gold, 120 talents, is a staggering sum, signifying an extraordinary transfer of wealth. It highlights the queen's vast resources and her willingness to bestow such a fortune upon Solomon, acknowledging his superior status and the impression he made upon her.
* **"and of spices great abundance, and precious stones":** This expands on the nature of the gifts, adding two more categories of highly valuable commodities. The "great abundance" of spices, coupled with the "precious stones," emphasizes the luxurious and exotic nature of her tribute. These items were not just valuable in monetary terms but also in their rarity and the status they conferred, further enhancing the splendor of Solomon's court and underscoring the global recognition of his prosperity.
* **"neither was there any such spice as the queen of Sheba gave king Solomon":** This final clause provides a powerful qualitative assessment of the spices. The emphatic declaration of their uniqueness ("neither was there any such spice") highlights their unparalleled rarity and exceptional quality. This statement serves to elevate the significance of the gifts beyond mere quantity, underscoring the extraordinary nature of the queen's offering and, by extension, the unparalleled glory of Solomon's reign, which attracted such unique tribute.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in [2 Chronicles 9:9](/2_chronicles/9-9 "2 Chronicles 9:9 - The Queen of Sheba's Gifts to Solomon") to underscore the magnificence of Solomon's reign and the divine favor upon him. **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrase "neither was there any such spice," an exaggeration that emphasizes the unprecedented rarity and quality of the queen's gifts. While perhaps not literally true that no such spice ever existed, it powerfully conveys the idea that these were of a caliber never before seen in Jerusalem, magnifying Solomon's splendor. **Symbolism** is also at play, as the lavish gifts—gold, spices, and precious stones—symbolize the queen's profound respect, the universal recognition of Solomon's wisdom, and the tangible manifestation of God's abundant blessing on Israel. The gifts are not just material wealth but represent the awe inspired by divine wisdom. Furthermore, there is an element of **Contrast** implied, as the Chronicler implicitly contrasts Solomon's divinely-granted wealth and wisdom with the more limited resources and wisdom of other earthly rulers, thereby elevating Solomon's status as uniquely blessed by God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The extraordinary tribute from the Queen of Sheba, as detailed in [2 Chronicles 9:9](/2_chronicles/9-9 "2 Chronicles 9:9 - The Queen of Sheba's Gifts to Solomon"), serves as a powerful testament to God's abundant provision and the far-reaching impact of true, divinely-granted wisdom. It illustrates that when God's people walk in obedience and seek His wisdom, He not only blesses them materially but also grants them honor and recognition even from distant nations. The queen's response of lavish generosity is a natural outflow of her awe at what she perceived as divine wisdom and blessing, mirroring the principle that true worship often involves costly sacrifice and heartfelt giving in response to God's goodness. This narrative reinforces the Chronicler's overarching theme that faithfulness to God leads to prosperity and glory, while also subtly foreshadowing a greater King whose wisdom and glory would draw all nations.

* [Proverbs 3:13-15](/proverbs/3-13-15 "Proverbs 3:13-15 - The Blessedness of Wisdom")
* [Proverbs 10:22](/proverbs/10-22 "Proverbs 10:22 - The Blessing of the Lord")
* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of the Queen of Sheba's visit and her extraordinary gifts in [2 Chronicles 9:9](/2_chronicles/9-9 "2 Chronicles 9:9 - The Queen of Sheba's Gifts to Solomon") invites us to reflect on the nature of true wealth, the source of genuine wisdom, and our own responses to divine revelation. The queen, a powerful and wealthy monarch, was not impressed by Solomon's material possessions alone, but by the profound wisdom she encountered, which she rightly attributed to God. Her lavish generosity was a natural and fitting response to the overwhelming evidence of God's blessing on Solomon. This challenges us to consider what truly impresses us and what we value most. Do we prioritize earthly riches, or do we, like the queen, seek out and appreciate the wisdom that comes from God, recognizing it as infinitely more valuable? Furthermore, her generosity serves as a powerful example of giving in response to receiving. When we encounter the boundless wisdom and grace of God, our natural response should be one of profound gratitude, expressed not only in words but also in our willingness to give generously of our time, talents, and resources for His glory. This verse encourages us to live lives that reflect God's abundant blessing, drawing others to seek the source of our wisdom and prosperity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does the Queen of Sheba's journey and lavish gifts reveal about the value she placed on wisdom, and how does this challenge my own priorities?**
* **How does God's blessing on Solomon, evident in the queen's tribute, encourage me to trust in God's provision and faithfulness in my own life?**
* **In what ways can my own response to God's wisdom and goodness mirror the Queen of Sheba's generosity?**

### FAQ

**What was the approximate value of 120 talents of gold in modern terms?**

Answer: While a precise modern equivalent is difficult due to fluctuating gold prices and ancient purchasing power, 120 talents of gold was an immense fortune. A single talent was approximately 75 pounds (34 kilograms). Therefore, 120 talents would be about 9,000 pounds (over 4,000 kilograms) of gold. At current market prices (e.g., $2,300 USD per troy ounce, or approx. $74,000 USD per kilogram), this would translate to hundreds of millions of US dollars. This staggering sum highlights the Queen of Sheba's vast wealth and the extraordinary nature of her tribute, signifying a gift of unprecedented scale in the ancient world, further emphasizing Solomon's immense prosperity as described in [2 Chronicles 9:22](/2_chronicles/9-22 "2 Chronicles 9:22 - Solomon's Riches and Wisdom").

**Why were the spices so significant that the text notes "neither was there any such spice"?**

Answer: The spices were significant for several reasons. First, they were incredibly valuable commodities in the ancient world, used for perfumes, incense in worship, anointing oils, and medicinal purposes, often transported over vast distances. Second, the phrase "neither was there any such spice" emphasizes their unparalleled rarity and exceptional quality. This suggests they were not common trade goods but perhaps unique to her region or specially cultivated, making them an exclusive and highly prized gift. Their uniqueness underscored the extraordinary nature of the entire tribute and added to the exotic and luxurious atmosphere of Solomon's court, further highlighting the global recognition of his kingdom's splendor, which was a direct result of God's blessing on him, as seen throughout [2 Chronicles 9](/2_chronicles/9 "2 Chronicles 9 - The Queen of Sheba's Visit").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The glory and wisdom of King Solomon, so magnificently displayed in [2 Chronicles 9:9](/2_chronicles/9-9 "2 Chronicles 9:9 - The Queen of Sheba's Gifts to Solomon") and throughout his reign, serve as a profound foreshadowing of the ultimate wisdom and glory found in Jesus Christ. Just as the Queen of Sheba traveled from the ends of the earth to hear Solomon's wisdom and offered him lavish gifts, so too will all nations ultimately be drawn to Christ, who is the very [wisdom of God incarnate](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God"). Solomon's earthly kingdom, with its unparalleled wealth and international renown, was a type of the spiritual kingdom of God, which is established and ruled by Christ. The precious gifts brought by the queen anticipate the worship and tribute that will be offered to Christ, the true King of Kings, by people from every tribe and nation, as envisioned in passages like [Revelation 21:24-26](/revelation/21-24-26 "Revelation 21:24-26 - The Nations Walk by Its Light"). While Solomon's glory was temporal and ultimately faded due to his unfaithfulness, Christ's glory is eternal and His kingdom will have no end. He is the one of whom a greater wisdom is spoken, for He is the [Son of God](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World"), infinitely surpassing Solomon in every way, and drawing all who seek true wisdom and life to Himself, not with earthly riches, but with the [unsearchable riches of His grace](/ephesians/3-8 "Ephesians 3:8 - The Unsearchable Riches of Christ").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 43:11

¶ And their father Israel said unto them, If [it must be] so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:

Psalms 72:15

And he shall live, and to him shall be given of the gold of Sheba: prayer also shall be made for him continually; [and] daily shall he be praised.

2 Chronicles 9:1

¶ And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon, she came to prove Solomon with hard questions at Jerusalem, with a very great company, and camels that bare spices, and gold in abundance, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart.

Psalms 72:10

The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.

2 Chronicles 9:24

And they brought every man his present, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, harness, and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.

1 Kings 10:10

And she gave the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold, and of spices very great store, and precious stones: there came no more such abundance of spices as these which the queen of Sheba gave to king Solomon.

1 Kings 9:14

And Hiram sent to the king sixscore talents of gold.