Queen of Sheba Brings Gifts to Solomon

II Chronicles 9:1–12
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It has been said that Solomon was one of the richest men that ever lived.  He had fantastic quantities of gold. From yearly taxes and revenue, nearly 20 million came in (I King 19:14). He owned 40,000 horses and 1400 chariots, each costing $400 apiece (I Kings 10:26). He commanded 12,000 cavalrymen and owned an extensive fleet of ships (I Kings 9:26-28). He also constructed an iron smelting industry at Ezion-Geber (I Kings 9:17). Solomon exhibited great wisdom in areas of administration (I Kings 4:29), natural science (I Kings 4:33), engineering (I Kings 5:1-7), philosophy (Ecclesiastes 2:3) and horticulture (Ecclesiastes 2:5). 

The queen of Sheba, having heard of Solomon’s wisdom, and achievements traveled over 1,200 miles to test him with hard questions. She came with gold and precious stones, in her camel caravan, to show her respect (v. 1). She said that when she saw Solomon in all His wisdom and achievements it was far greater than she had previously heard. These reports moved her to undertake this long journey to see for herself.

These gifts that she gave Solomon were, 120 talents of gold, (4 ½ tons or 9,000 lbs.) spices, precious stone, and algum wood which was used as steps into the temple and the royal palace.  Solomon also gave the queen gifts, but the Scripture doesn’t go into any detail or description.

Application

Solomon was greatly respected by the Queen of Sheba because of his wisdom and achievements. In her visit she recognized that Solomon was a great king, not because of his riches but because he loved God and treated His people fairly. It is my desire to have that kind of reputation.