Topical Bible: Solomon: Named Jedidiah, by Nathan the Prophet

◄ Solomon: Named Jedidiah, by Nathan the Prophet ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction

Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is one of the most prominent figures in the Hebrew Bible. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, Solomon's reign is often considered a golden age in Israel's history. He is also referred to as Jedidiah, a name given to him by Nathan the prophet, which means "beloved of the LORD."

Birth and Naming

Solomon's birth is recorded in 2 Samuel 12:24-25. After the death of their first child, David comforted Bathsheba, and she bore a son. "Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and lay with her. So she gave birth to a son and named him Solomon. Now the LORD loved the child and sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah because the LORD loved him" (2 Samuel 12:24-25). This dual naming signifies both his royal destiny and his special favor with God.

Wisdom and Reign

Solomon is renowned for his wisdom, a gift from God. When God appeared to him in a dream at Gibeon, Solomon famously asked for wisdom to govern the people. "Give Your servant, therefore, an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?" (1 Kings 3:9). Pleased with Solomon's request, God granted him unparalleled wisdom, as well as wealth and honor (1 Kings 3:10-13).

Solomon's wisdom is exemplified in various accounts, including the judgment of the two women claiming to be the mother of a child (1 Kings 3:16-28). His ability to discern the truth in complex situations earned him respect and admiration throughout the region.

Building Projects

One of Solomon's most significant achievements was the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, a task his father David had desired but was not permitted to complete. Solomon's Temple became the central place of worship for the Israelites and housed the Ark of the Covenant. The detailed account of its construction is found in 1 Kings 6-7.

Solomon also undertook other building projects, including his own palace and various cities, fortifications, and infrastructure improvements throughout the kingdom. His reign was marked by prosperity and peace, largely due to his diplomatic relationships and trade alliances.

Religious Practices and Downfall

Despite his wisdom and achievements, Solomon's reign was not without controversy. His marriages to foreign women led him to build high places for their gods, which ultimately turned his heart away from the LORD. "For when Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and he was not wholeheartedly devoted to the LORD his God, as his father David had been" (1 Kings 11:4). This apostasy led to God's judgment, and the kingdom was eventually divided after Solomon's death.

Legacy

Solomon's legacy is multifaceted. He is credited with authoring several biblical books, including Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. His wisdom literature continues to be studied for its insights into human nature and divine wisdom. Despite his failings, Solomon remains a pivotal figure in biblical history, embodying both the heights of human achievement and the depths of human frailty.

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2 Samuel 12:24,25
And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in to her, and lay with her: and she bore a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.
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