Solomon is credited with having written a number of wise sayings, some of which are collected in the book of Proverbs. The proverbs attributed to Solomon are in Proverbs 10—22, and they are two-line sayings on a variety of topics. Reading the verses in chapter 10 or 13. Did they raise any questions or give you a good giggle?

• Several proverbs mention trouble talk, such as gossip and mean or hurtful comments.

Why is it important to speak respectfully and watch what you say?

• Why do you think so many proverbs emphasize the importance of hard work?

• Which proverbs do you think are examples of timeless wisdom? Which ones are not

timeless because they don’t make sense today?

As king, Solomon consolidated the kingdom of Israel and the power of the kingship that had been established by his father, King David. Instead of fighting wars, he built powerful, walled cities and organized Israel to be more efficient, and the result was peace and prosperity—a golden age for Israel.

Here's a look at how Israel's unity and empire spread from prior to King David, to King David, to King Solomon:

Read the verses to find out what Solomon asked God for.

• What was God’s answer to Solomon’s request? God was so pleased that Solomon asked for wisdom that God promised him respect and riches as well.

• If you could ask God for one thing, what would it be?

• What event in 1 Kings 3:16-28 showed that Solomon had the wisdom of God?

• According to 1 Kings 4:29-34, besides being a successful king (for a while) what else did Solomon become known for? What caused Solomon to become so famous?

Solomon’s greatest achievement was the building of the temple in Jerusalem. In 1 Kings 6:12-13, God restates his covenant with the people of Israel. All that is required is that they keep God’s commandments.

In 1 Kings 7 we see that as Solomon builds the famous temple with the help of King Hiram of Tyre, he is also making a grand palace for himself. Check out the deal that Solomon and Hiram made in 1 Kings 5:10-12 (picture to the right). Note that again the Bible shows us that God keeps God's promises!

These two pictures are what the temple that King Solomon had built very well may have looked like.

Solomon’s great building projects were very expensive. He taxed the people heavily and forced thousands of them to leave their homes and work for his government without pay. Though Solomon’s reign seemed peaceful and prosperous, the people became bitter and the kingdom began to disintegrate. As Solomon forgot wisdom amid his desire for wealth and power, the worship of other gods compromised the worship of Israel’s one God. Soon Israel would again experience the judgment of God.

The rule of Solomon was a bittersweet one for Israel. Solomon built the temple, but he was also the king who started Israel’s decline. He wrote thousands of proverbs and songs, but he wasn’t wise enough to obey God’s word all his life.

• Was Solomon wise or foolish?

• Who is wiser: a person who knows many things or someone who does the right things?

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, you can email Leisha at ltays@oursaviourslc.org