Who was King Solomon?
Quick answer
Solomon was the son of David, famous for the God-given wisdom he asked for and for building the first temple in Jerusalem — though his later years were dimmed by compromise.
When God offered Solomon anything, he asked not for riches but for wisdom to govern. God granted it, along with wealth and honor, and his wisdom became legendary.
Solomon built the magnificent temple in Jerusalem and is credited with much of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon.
Yet his many foreign wives turned his heart toward other gods, and his reign ended in division — a warning that beginning well is not the same as finishing well.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.