10 Interesting Facts About Solomon in the Bible

Solomon was one of the most fascinating kings in the Bible. He ruled Israel during a time of peace and prosperity, and God gave him wisdom beyond any other king before or after him. His story is recorded in 1 Kings, 2 Chronicles, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon.

1. Solomon Was the Son of David and Bathsheba

Solomon was the second son born to David and Bathsheba after the death of their first child. Even though their relationship began with sin, God showed grace by choosing Solomon as the next king.

2 Samuel 12:24 — “Then David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.”

2. Solomon Was Known for His Wisdom

When God asked Solomon what he wanted, he didn’t ask for riches or long life. He asked for wisdom. God granted it—and more.

1 Kings 3:12 — “Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart…”

James 1:5 — “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God…”

3. He Wrote Much of the Wisdom Literature in the Bible

Solomon is credited with writing most of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon. His writings cover love, life, death, work, and the fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 1:1 — “The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel.”

4. Solomon Built the Temple in Jerusalem

One of Solomon's greatest accomplishments was building the first temple in Jerusalem. His father, David, wanted to build it but God chose Solomon instead.

1 Kings 6:1 — “And it came to pass in the four hundred and eightieth year… that Solomon began to build the house of the LORD…”

5. He Married Many Foreign Women

Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines. Many were from nations that worshipped other gods, which eventually led him astray.

1 Kings 11:3-4 — “And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart.”

6. The Queen of Sheba Visited Him

The Queen of Sheba traveled a great distance to see Solomon’s wisdom for herself. She was amazed by his knowledge and the splendor of his kingdom.

1 Kings 10:1-2 — “And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon… she came to prove him with hard questions.”

7. Solomon Had Great Wealth

God blessed Solomon with riches beyond measure. He collected gold, silver, horses, and spices, and his kingdom was filled with luxury.

1 Kings 10:23 — “So king Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth for riches and for wisdom.”

8. Solomon’s Prayer at the Temple Dedication Was Powerful

When Solomon dedicated the temple, he prayed a heartfelt prayer asking God to hear the prayers of His people and forgive them.

2 Chronicles 6:21 — “Hearken therefore unto the supplications of thy servant… that thou hear from thy dwelling place, even from heaven…”

9. He Fell into Idolatry Later in Life

Despite all his wisdom, Solomon’s heart turned from God in his old age. He built high places for false gods and angered the Lord.

1 Kings 11:6 — “And Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD, and went not fully after the LORD…”

10. Solomon’s Legacy Was Mixed

Though he started strong, Solomon’s kingdom became divided after his death because of his disobedience. His story is a lesson on the importance of finishing well.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 — “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”

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