Who was the Queen of Sheba? Introduction The individual known as the Queen of Sheba appears in Scripture as a monarch who journeyed to Jerusalem to test King Solomon’s extraordinary reputation for wisdom and wealth. Her account primarily appears in 1 Kings 10:1–13 and 2 Chronicles 9:1–12. This entry explores her identity, her kingdom’s possible location, and her significance in the broader biblical and historical context. Scriptural Accounts 1 Kings 10:1 states, “Now when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon…” (under 90 characters). From the outset, the narrative highlights that Solomon’s renowned wisdom, given by God, prompted her visit. Similarly, 2 Chronicles 9:1 affirms that she arrived “with a very large caravan” (under 90 characters) and brought extensive gifts. Both passages agree that the queen posed difficult questions (sometimes referred to as “riddles”) to Solomon to gauge the depth of his wisdom. The biblical text emphasizes her astonishment at Solomon’s answers, the splendor of his court, and the magnitude of his wealth. By the time she departed, Scripture records that the queen praised the God of Israel for placing Solomon on the throne to execute justice and righteousness (1 Kings 10:9; 2 Chronicles 9:8). Historical and Cultural Background In the ancient Near East, traveling monarchs often sought alliances, trade routes, and the exchange of knowledge. The Queen of Sheba’s journey fits into this broader context of inter-regional diplomacy and commerce. Sheba, in many historical references, is associated with a region famed for spices, gold, and precious stones—items which Scripture describes her bringing to Solomon (1 Kings 10:2). Outside of the biblical account, various traditions and legends have grown around this queen. An example is the Ethiopian tradition recorded in the Kebra Nagast, where she is linked to the ancestry of Ethiopian royalty, though this tradition cannot be definitively proven by extant evidence. Additionally, Josephus (in Antiquities of the Jews 8:6:5) referred to her as the queen of Egypt and Ethiopia, though that identification is debated among scholars. Possible Geographic Location Most researchers place ancient Sheba (also called Saba) in southwestern Arabia (modern-day Yemen). This assumption relies on archaeological findings of incense routes and references to the Sabaean kingdom known for frankincense and myrrh trade. Others argue for an African location, perhaps correlating Sheba with the Horn of Africa, but the southwestern Arabian location remains the most widely supported based on inscriptions and excavation sites. Archaeological Evidence and Extra-Biblical Sources • Modern excavations in Yemen reveal the extensive trade routes of the Sabaean kingdom, which match the biblical depiction of a land abundant in gold and spices. • Inscriptions found in the region reference the wealth, deities, and diplomatic interactions of the Sabaean people, showing the significance of commerce. • Some historians reference ancient caravans that carried luxury goods across the Arabian Peninsula, consistent with 1 Kings 10 and 2 Chronicles 9. Though direct archaeological evidence tying a specific queen to biblical Sheba is not yet conclusive, the general framework of a powerful, wealthy realm existing at the time of Solomon aligns with these findings. Analysis of the Biblical Text 1) Motivation for the Visit: The queen had heard “of the fame of Solomon” (1 Kings 10:1 excerpt under 90 characters) and came to test him. This points to the high regard that surrounding nations held for Solomon and underscores the God-given wisdom and prosperity of Israel at that time. 2) Testing Solomon’s Wisdom: She posed difficult questions, signifying that the exchange was more than ceremonial. The text implies that Solomon triumphed in every inquiry, showcasing the depth and practicality of his God-endowed wisdom. 3) Recognition of Israel’s God: Notably, she blessed Israel’s God, acknowledging that it was He who had placed Solomon on the throne. Her praise shows an external acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty, aligning with the broader theme that His name would be known among the nations (1 Kings 8:41–43). Theological and Literary Significance Biblically, the Queen of Sheba narrative reveals the universal scope of the Lord’s wisdom extending beyond Israel’s borders. Her approval and gifts could represent the homage of the nations to divine revelation. The storyline also highlights themes of hospitality, the pursuit of truth, and the recognition that genuine wisdom originates from God. New Testament Reference Jesus referenced the Queen of Sheba in Matthew 12:42 where He said, “The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment…” (under 90 characters). In this passage, her willingness to seek out wisdom and truth is presented as a rebuke to those in Jesus’ day who refused to believe. The mention underscores her quest for divinely granted insight and presents her as an example of someone who recognized truth when she encountered it. Chronological Considerations From a close reading of 1 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and genealogical data in Scripture, this event likely occurred during the zenith of Solomon’s reign. Using a conservative dating approach, Solomon’s rule is commonly placed in the mid-10th century BC. The Queen of Sheba’s visit, therefore, would fall sometime before Solomon’s decline later in his reign. Conclusion The Queen of Sheba stands out in Scripture as a monarch of great wealth and curiosity who recognized God’s hand upon Solomon. Her visit supports the authenticity of Israel’s prominence under Solomon, aligns well with ancient trade routes in southwestern Arabia, and underscores the consistent biblical theme that true wisdom—and sovereignty—belong to the Creator. Her story remains significant as a historical and theological account, illustrating the breadth of Solomon’s reputation, the reach of God’s revelation in the ancient world, and the enduring significance of seeking truth with humility. |
    |