Solomon
Solomon succeeds David after a contested transition. Kings portrays wisdom, international exchange, building and wealth alongside forced labor, accumulation and religious compromise.
Solomon in the larger story
The first temple defines Solomon’s reign, while wisdom books are traditionally associated with his name. The kingdom’s division after his death makes his legacy deliberately double-sided.
Key moments and where to read them
Request for wisdom
At Gibeon, Solomon asks for discernment to govern.
1 Kings 3:3–15Temple dedication
The ark is brought into the completed temple and Solomon prays at its dedication.
1 Kings 8A divided legacy
Foreign alliances, accumulated wealth and worship practices become the narrative explanation for judgment.
1 Kings 10–11
Primary reference trail
2 Samuel 12:24–25 · 1 Kings 1–11 · 2 Chronicles 1–9 · Proverbs 1:1 · Matthew 6:29
The references above locate the profile’s central claims. They are not a concordance of every possible allusion or later tradition concerning Solomon.