The reference to 666 talents of gold is found in the Old Testament, specifically in the account of King Solomon's wealth and reign. This figure is mentioned in the context of the annual revenue that Solomon received, highlighting the immense wealth and prosperity of his kingdom during his reign.

Biblical Reference:

1. 1 Kings 10:14 : "The weight of gold that came to Solomon each year was 666 talents."

2. 2 Chronicles 9:13 : "The weight of gold that came to Solomon each year was 666 talents."

These passages are nearly identical and are found in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, which both describe the grandeur and opulence of Solomon's kingdom. The number 666 here is specifically associated with the annual gold revenue that Solomon received, which came from various sources, including taxes, trade, and tributes from other nations and rulers.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The mention of 666 talents of gold serves to emphasize the extraordinary wealth that Solomon accumulated. A talent was a significant unit of weight used in ancient times, and its exact weight varied between different cultures and periods. However, it is generally estimated that one talent was approximately 75 pounds (about 34 kilograms). Therefore, 666 talents would equate to roughly 25 tons of gold, underscoring the vast resources at Solomon's disposal.

Solomon's wealth was not only a testament to his successful administration and the prosperity of Israel under his rule but also a reflection of the extensive trade networks and diplomatic relationships he established. The biblical narrative portrays Solomon as a wise and discerning king, whose wisdom attracted visitors from distant lands, such as the Queen of Sheba, who came to witness his wealth and wisdom firsthand.

Symbolic Interpretations:

The number 666 has garnered significant attention in biblical studies and popular culture, primarily due to its later association with the "number of the beast" in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 13:18). However, in the context of Solomon's wealth, the number is not imbued with the same symbolic meaning. Instead, it serves as a literal account of the gold received by Solomon, illustrating the peak of Israel's economic and political power during his reign.

Theological Implications:

The account of Solomon's wealth, including the 666 talents of gold, is often discussed in theological studies concerning the themes of prosperity, divine blessing, and the potential pitfalls of material wealth. Solomon's reign is seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to David, his father, regarding the establishment of a prosperous and enduring kingdom. However, the narrative also foreshadows the eventual decline of Solomon's kingdom due to his later actions and the spiritual complacency that can accompany great wealth.

In summary, the mention of 666 talents of gold in the biblical text serves as a historical record of Solomon's wealth and a narrative device to highlight the zenith of Israel's prosperity under his rule.