The term "Sidonian women" refers to the women from Sidon, an ancient Phoenician city located in what is now modern-day Lebanon. Sidon was one of the principal cities of Phoenicia, known for its wealth, maritime prowess, and influence in the ancient Near East. The Sidonians, as a people, were renowned for their skills in trade, navigation, and craftsmanship, particularly in the production of purple dye and glass.

In the biblical narrative, Sidonian women are most notably mentioned in the context of King Solomon's reign. Solomon, known for his wisdom and extensive building projects, also had numerous foreign wives, including Sidonian women. These marriages were often politically motivated, intended to secure alliances with neighboring nations. However, they also had significant religious implications.

1. Influence on King Solomon: The Sidonian women, along with other foreign wives, played a crucial role in leading Solomon astray from exclusive worship of Yahweh. The Bible records that Solomon's heart was turned after other gods because of his foreign wives. In 1 Kings 11:1-5 , it is written: "King Solomon, however, loved many foreign women along with the daughter of Pharaoh—women of Moab, Ammon, Edom, and Sidon, as well as Hittite women. They were from the nations about which the LORD had told the Israelites, 'You must not intermarry with them, for surely they will turn your hearts after their gods.' Yet Solomon clung to these women in love. He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines, and his wives turned his heart away. 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. Solomon followed Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, and Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites."

2. Religious Syncretism: The Sidonian women, particularly through the worship of Ashtoreth, introduced idolatrous practices into Israel. Ashtoreth, also known as Astarte, was a goddess associated with love, war, and fertility, and her worship was prevalent among the Sidonians. The introduction of such deities into Israel led to religious syncretism, which was a direct violation of the covenantal laws given to the Israelites. This syncretism was a significant factor in the spiritual decline of Israel during and after Solomon's reign.

3. Jezebel, a Sidonian Woman: Another prominent Sidonian woman in the Bible is Jezebel, the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians. Jezebel became the wife of Ahab, king of Israel, and is infamous for her role in promoting the worship of Baal and persecuting the prophets of Yahweh. Her influence further entrenched idolatry in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. In 1 Kings 16:31 , it is noted: "And as if following the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat were not enough, he married Jezebel, the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and he proceeded to serve and worship Baal."

4. Cultural and Historical Context: The Sidonian women, through their marriages and influence, highlight the broader cultural and religious interactions between Israel and its neighbors. The Phoenicians, including the Sidonians, were known for their cosmopolitan culture and religious pluralism, which often stood in contrast to the monotheistic faith of Israel. The biblical narrative underscores the tension between maintaining covenantal faithfulness to Yahweh and the allure of foreign alliances and practices.

In summary, Sidonian women in the Bible are emblematic of the challenges Israel faced in maintaining its distinct religious identity amidst the surrounding pagan cultures. Their influence, particularly in the royal court, serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising faith for political and personal gain.