Solomon

Solomon is the definition of someone who had everything and still managed to lose his way. He was the son of David and Bathsheba, and he became king of Israel after a succession struggle with his older brother Adonijah. Early in his reign, God appeared to him in a dream and said, "Ask for whatever you want." Solomon asked for wisdom to govern well. God was so pleased with that request that He gave him wisdom plus wealth and honor beyond anyone else.

The most famous demonstration of Solomon's wisdom was the case of two women who both claimed to be the mother of a baby. Solomon proposed cutting the baby in half, knowing the real mother would give up her claim to save her child. When one woman immediately surrendered, Solomon knew she was the real mother. People came from everywhere to hear his judgments, including the Queen of Sheba, who was overwhelmed by his wisdom and the splendor of his court.

Solomon's greatest building project was the Temple in Jerusalem — a magnificent structure that took seven years to complete. It became the center of Israelite worship and the place where God's presence was said to dwell. The dedication ceremony, where Solomon prayed an extraordinary prayer and fire came down from heaven, was one of the high points of Israel's history. He also built a massive palace, fortified cities, and developed extensive trade networks. Under Solomon, Israel reached its peak of wealth and influence.

He's traditionally credited with writing Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. Proverbs is practical wisdom for daily life. Ecclesiastes is a surprisingly modern-feeling meditation on the meaning of life ("Meaningless! Meaningless! Everything is meaningless!" is a direct quote). The Song of Solomon is love poetry that's been interpreted both literally and allegorically for centuries.

But Solomon's downfall came through his relationships. He had 700 wives and 300 concubines — many from foreign nations whose marriages were political alliances. These women brought their own gods, and Solomon gradually allowed idol worship in Israel. By the end of his life, his heart had "turned away from the Lord." After his death, the kingdom split in two. Solomon's story is a cautionary tale about how wisdom without consistency, and privilege without discipline, can lead even the most gifted person astray.