2 Chronicles 9:5

She said to the king, "The report I heard in my own country about your words and wisdom is true.

Study Bible

She said to the king
This phrase introduces the Queen of Sheba, a figure of significant interest in biblical history. Sheba is often associated with the region of modern-day Yemen or Ethiopia. Her visit to King Solomon highlights the far-reaching fame of Solomon's wisdom and wealth. The Queen of Sheba's journey signifies the recognition of Solomon's God-given wisdom by foreign nations, fulfilling the promise that Solomon's wisdom would be renowned (1 Kings 4:29-34). Her interaction with Solomon also prefigures the Gentiles' acknowledgment of the God of Israel, a theme that resonates throughout the Old Testament and finds fulfillment in the New Testament with the inclusion of Gentiles in the early Church.

The report I heard in my own country
The Queen of Sheba's acknowledgment of the report she heard underscores the widespread reputation of Solomon's wisdom and the prosperity of his kingdom. This report likely included accounts of Solomon's judicial decisions, his writings, and the grandeur of his court. The fact that such reports reached distant lands like Sheba indicates the extensive trade networks and communication channels of the ancient Near East. This also reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to make Solomon's name great (1 Kings 3:12-13).

About your words and wisdom
Solomon's wisdom is a central theme in the biblical narrative, often associated with his ability to govern justly and his deep understanding of nature and human behavior. His wisdom is a gift from God, granted in response to Solomon's request for discernment (1 Kings 3:9-12). The Queen of Sheba's focus on Solomon's words and wisdom highlights the divine source of his insight, which is not merely intellectual but also spiritual, pointing to the wisdom of God that surpasses human understanding (Proverbs 2:6).

Is true
The Queen of Sheba's confirmation of the reports she heard serves as a testament to the authenticity of Solomon's wisdom and the truth of God's promises. Her declaration affirms the reliability of the accounts of Solomon's reign and the fulfillment of God's covenant with David, Solomon's father. This acknowledgment by a foreign dignitary also prefigures the recognition of Jesus Christ's wisdom and authority by those outside the Jewish community, as seen in the New Testament (Matthew 12:42), where Jesus refers to the Queen of Sheba's visit as a foreshadowing of the Gentiles' acceptance of the Gospel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Queen of Sheba
A monarch from the region of Sheba, likely located in present-day Yemen or Ethiopia. She visited King Solomon to test his wisdom with hard questions.

2. King Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was known for his unparalleled wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, where Solomon reigned and where the Temple was built, serving as the spiritual and political center of the nation.

4. The Visit
The Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon was a significant event, showcasing the far-reaching fame of Solomon's wisdom and the prosperity of his kingdom.

5. Wisdom and Wealth
The themes of wisdom and wealth are central to this passage, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to Solomon.

Teaching Points

The Pursuit of Wisdom
True wisdom is a gift from God and should be sought earnestly. Solomon's wisdom was renowned, but it was rooted in his relationship with God.

The Influence of a Godly Life
Solomon's wisdom and the prosperity of his kingdom drew people from distant lands. A life lived in accordance with God's principles can have a far-reaching impact.

The Importance of Reputation
The Queen of Sheba's visit was prompted by reports of Solomon's wisdom. Our reputation as followers of Christ should reflect His character and draw others to Him.

Testing and Proving Truth
The Queen of Sheba came to test Solomon's wisdom. Similarly, we should test teachings and claims against the truth of Scripture.

The Fulfillment of God's Promises
Solomon's wisdom and wealth were a fulfillment of God's promises. We can trust that God will fulfill His promises in our lives as well.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Queen of Sheba's visit reveal about the reputation and influence of Solomon's wisdom?

2. How can we pursue and apply godly wisdom in our daily lives, and what are some practical steps to achieve this?

3. In what ways can our lives reflect the wisdom and character of Christ to those around us?

4. How does the account of Solomon's wisdom challenge us to test and discern truth in our own spiritual journey?

5. What promises of God are you holding onto, and how does the fulfillment of God's promises in Solomon's life encourage you in your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 10:1-13
This parallel account provides additional details about the Queen of Sheba's visit, emphasizing Solomon's wisdom and the gifts exchanged.

Proverbs 1:7
This verse underscores the foundation of wisdom as the fear of the Lord, which is a key aspect of Solomon's wisdom.

Matthew 12:42
Jesus refers to the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon, using it to illustrate the greater wisdom found in Himself.