1 Kings 10:4

And when the queen of Sheba had seen all Solomon's wisdom, and the house that he had built,

And when the queen {H4436} of Sheba {H7614} had seen {H7200} all Solomon's {H8010} wisdom {H2451}, and the house {H1004} that he had built {H1129},

After the queen of Sh'va had seen all Shlomo's wisdom, the palace he had built,

When the queen of Sheba saw all the wisdom of Solomon, the palace he had built,

And when the queen of Sheba had seen all the wisdom of Solomon, and the house that he had built,

Commentary

1 Kings 10:4 describes the immediate impact of King Solomon's legendary wisdom and magnificent building projects on the visiting Queen of Sheba. This verse sets the stage for her subsequent awe and affirmation, validating the widespread reports of Solomon's unparalleled reign.

Context

The Queen of Sheba traveled a great distance to Jerusalem, drawn by the fame of King Solomon's wisdom and his reputation, which had reached even her distant kingdom. Her visit was not merely a diplomatic courtesy but an expedition to "test him with hard questions" (1 Kings 10:1). Upon arrival, her observations began immediately, focusing on two primary aspects: Solomon's profound wisdom, evident in his answers and administration, and the grandeur of his architectural achievements.

  • Solomon's Wisdom: God had granted Solomon unparalleled wisdom and understanding (1 Kings 3:12), which was renowned throughout the ancient world. This wisdom wasn't just intellectual but practical, manifesting in his governance, judgments, and ability to answer complex queries.
  • The House He Had Built: This refers primarily to the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem, a seven-year construction project dedicated to the Lord (1 Kings 6:38). It also encompassed Solomon's opulent royal palace and other significant building endeavors that showcased his kingdom's wealth and engineering prowess. These structures were physical manifestations of God's blessing on Israel during Solomon's golden age.

Key Themes

  • Divine Blessing and Manifested Glory: The verse highlights how God's blessings on Solomon, particularly his wisdom and prosperity, were tangible and undeniable, even to foreign dignitaries. The "house" (Temple) was a central symbol of God's presence and glory among His people.
  • The Power of Observation and Evidence: The Queen's conviction about Solomon's greatness was not based on hearsay alone, but on what she personally "had seen." This emphasizes the verifiable nature of God's work through His chosen servants.
  • International Recognition: The visit of the Queen of Sheba underscores the far-reaching influence and reputation of Solomon's kingdom, a testament to Israel's prominence under his rule.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Kings 10:4 serves as a reminder that true wisdom, when sought from God, has a transformative and evident impact. Just as Solomon's wisdom and works were observable, our lives, guided by divine wisdom, should reflect God's character and blessings. This verse encourages us to pursue a wisdom that is not merely academic but practical, leading to actions and creations that bring glory to God and are a testament to His presence in our lives. It also speaks to the importance of stewardship over the resources and talents God provides, using them to build things of lasting value and to reflect His majesty.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 12:42 (3 votes)

    The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon [is] here.

  • 2 Chronicles 9:3 (2 votes)

    And when the queen of Sheba had seen the wisdom of Solomon, and the house that he had built,

  • 2 Chronicles 9:4 (2 votes)

    And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel; his cupbearers also, and their apparel; and his ascent by which he went up into the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.

  • Ecclesiastes 12:9 (2 votes)

    And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, [and] set in order many proverbs.

  • 1 Kings 6:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass in the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign over Israel, in the month Zif, which [is] the second month, that he began to build the house of the LORD.

  • 1 Kings 6:7 (2 votes)

    And the house, when it was in building, was built of stone made ready before it was brought thither: so that there was neither hammer nor axe [nor] any tool of iron heard in the house, while it was in building.

  • 1 Kings 4:29 (2 votes)

    ¶ And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that [is] on the sea shore.