SOLOMON’S REIGN: As David neared death, he appointed his son Solomon, to the throne. Solomon’s name is similar to the Hebrew word ‘shalom’ meaning ‘peace’. His reign brought peace to the Nation and prosperity to the kingdom. In reviewing the character and events of this man, we find many parallels in his life that foreshadow David’s promised seed (Jesus) who was to come. Solomon did build a house for the LORD to dwell in, 1 Chronicles 28:5-10
SOLOMON’S FAILURE: Solomon had begun his reign with a very spiritual and discerning trust in the LORD. He had asked God for ‘wisdom’ to help him guide the nations for “he loved the LORD”, 1 Kings 3:3. God was pleased with his request and Solomon’s wisdom has become legendary. The book of Proverbs and the Song of Solomon are largely ascribed to him as the author. Unfortunately, even with ‘God given wisdom’, Solomon multiplied horse, wealth and wisdom contrary to the warnings of Moses, Deuteronomy 17:16,17. Rather, (Deuteronomy 17:18,19) he should have written a copy of the Law of Moses and read it all the days of his life. Despite his faithful start, he amassed wealth, and horses and had ‘700 wives and 300 concubines’. The record shows his wives turned his heart to their false gods and away from being faithful the only true God of Israel, Yahweh, even as he sits on the throne of the LORD over Israel. 1 Kings 11:1-3, 4, 9 This is a clear warning of marriage to unbelievers, and how difficult it will be to honor the LORD. Cp 2 Corinthians 6:15-18.