Solomon built pagan temples because he compromised his faith by marrying foreign women who worshiped other gods. In an effort to please them and maintain political alliances, he permitted and even participated in idolatry. This disobedience directly violated God’s commands and led to the spiritual decline of Israel.
Scripture explains:
“But King Solomon loved many foreign women… from the nations of whom the Lord had said… ‘You shall not intermarry with them… Surely they will turn away your hearts after their gods.’”
(1 Kings 11:1–2)
Despite God’s clear warning, Solomon clung to these wives:
“For it was so, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned his heart after other gods… and Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord.”
(1 Kings 11:4, 6)
As a result:
“Then Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the abomination of Moab… and for Molech the abomination of the people of Ammon.”
(1 Kings 11:7)
These were not minor infractions. Molech worship included child sacrifice. Solomon’s tolerance and participation in these practices provoked God’s anger.
“The Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned from the Lord God of Israel… Therefore the Lord said to Solomon, ‘Because you have done this… I will surely tear the kingdom away from you.’”
(1 Kings 11:9–11)
Though the judgment was delayed for David’s sake, Solomon’s idolatry marked the beginning of Israel’s spiritual decline and eventual division.
