The Queen of Sheba is mentioned in 1 Kings 10:1–13 and 2 Chronicles 9:1–12. She was a powerful monarch from a distant land, likely the region of modern-day Yemen or southern Arabia, known as Sheba. Hearing of Solomon’s fame concerning the name of the Lord, she came to Jerusalem to test him with hard questions (1 Kings 10:1).
She arrived with a very great company, bringing camels bearing spices, much gold, and precious stones. When she communed with Solomon, she found that he answered all her questions, and nothing was too hard for him (1 Kings 10:2–3). She observed the wisdom of Solomon, the house he had built, the food of his table, the sitting of his servants, and the offerings he made in the house of the Lord. Her spirit was overwhelmed by the greatness of what she saw (1 Kings 10:4–5).
She declared that what she had heard in her own land did not compare to the reality, stating, “the half was not told me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the fame which I heard” (1 Kings 10:7). She acknowledged the blessedness of Solomon’s servants and praised the Lord for setting Solomon on the throne to do judgment and justice (1 Kings 10:8–9). She gave him 120 talents of gold, a great abundance of spices, and precious stones.
After exchanging gifts, the Queen of Sheba returned to her own land (1 Kings 10:13). Jesus later referenced her in Matthew 12:42 and Luke 11:31, saying that she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon and that one greater than Solomon is here, referring to Himself. Her example is used to show the accountability of those who refuse to heed the words of Christ, though they have greater access to truth.
The Queen of Sheba’s visit illustrates the far-reaching reputation of Solomon’s God-given wisdom and the fulfillment of God’s promise to bless Israel. Her recognition of the Lord and reverence for divine wisdom underscore the universal reach of God’s truth.
