1 Kings 10:7

But I did not believe these things until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half was told to me. Your wisdom and prosperity have far exceeded the report I heard.

Study Bible

But I did not believe these things
This phrase reflects the initial skepticism of the Queen of Sheba. In the Hebrew context, the word for "believe" (אָמַן, 'aman) implies trust or faithfulness. The Queen's doubt highlights a common human tendency to question the extraordinary until personally experienced. This skepticism sets the stage for a revelation of truth, emphasizing the importance of firsthand experience in understanding God's blessings and wisdom.

until I came and saw with my own eyes
The act of coming and seeing is significant in biblical narratives, often symbolizing a journey of discovery and revelation. The Hebrew verb for "came" (בּוֹא, bo') suggests an arrival or entering into a new understanding. The phrase "with my own eyes" underscores the importance of personal witness and testimony in the biblical tradition, where seeing is equated with understanding and belief.

Indeed, not even half was told me
This expression of astonishment reveals the overwhelming nature of Solomon's wisdom and prosperity. The phrase "not even half" indicates that the reality far surpassed the reports. In the Hebrew culture, such hyperbolic expressions were used to convey the greatness of God's blessings. This acknowledgment serves as a testament to the abundance that God can bestow upon those who seek His wisdom.

your wisdom and prosperity
The Queen of Sheba specifically mentions "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokmah) and "prosperity" (טוֹב, tov), two key attributes of Solomon's reign. Wisdom in the biblical sense is not merely intellectual knowledge but a divine gift that enables righteous living and governance. Prosperity, often seen as a sign of God's favor, reflects the material and spiritual blessings that accompany godly wisdom. Together, they illustrate the holistic nature of God's blessings.

far exceed the report I heard
This phrase emphasizes the theme of God's blessings surpassing human expectations. The Hebrew word for "exceed" (יָתַר, yathar) implies an abundance or overflow. The Queen's acknowledgment that Solomon's wisdom and prosperity exceed the reports she heard serves as a reminder of the limitless nature of God's provision. It encourages believers to trust in God's ability to exceed their expectations and fulfill His promises in ways beyond human comprehension.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Queen of Sheba
A monarch from a wealthy kingdom, likely in the region of modern-day Yemen or Ethiopia, who visits King Solomon to test his wisdom with hard questions.

2. King Solomon
The son of King David, known for his unparalleled wisdom, wealth, and the building of the First Temple in Jerusalem.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, where Solomon's court and the Temple are located, serving as the center of worship and governance.

4. The Visit
The Queen of Sheba's journey to Jerusalem to witness Solomon's wisdom and wealth firsthand, which leads to her acknowledgment of God's blessing upon Solomon.

5. The Report
The initial accounts of Solomon's wisdom and prosperity that reached the Queen of Sheba, prompting her visit.

Teaching Points

The Pursuit of Wisdom
The Queen of Sheba's journey underscores the importance of seeking wisdom and truth, even at great personal expense and effort.

God's Blessing and Testimony
Solomon's wisdom and prosperity serve as a testimony to God's blessing, reminding believers that their lives should reflect God's glory.

Seeing is Believing
The Queen's initial skepticism and subsequent belief upon seeing Solomon's wisdom firsthand illustrate the power of personal experience in faith.

The Half Has Not Been Told
This phrase highlights the abundance of God's blessings, encouraging believers to trust that God's plans and provisions exceed human expectations.

Recognition of Divine Wisdom
The Queen's acknowledgment of Solomon's wisdom points to the ultimate recognition of Christ's superior wisdom and authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated the Queen of Sheba to visit Solomon, and how can this inspire us to seek wisdom in our own lives?

2. How does Solomon's wisdom and prosperity serve as a testimony to God's blessing, and how can our lives reflect God's glory today?

3. In what ways does personal experience strengthen our faith, as seen in the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon?

4. How can the phrase "not even half was told me" encourage us to trust in God's abundant plans and provisions for our lives?

5. How does the Queen of Sheba's recognition of Solomon's wisdom point us to the greater wisdom found in Jesus Christ, and how can we apply this understanding in our daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 9:1-12
This passage parallels the account in 1 Kings 10, providing additional details about the Queen of Sheba's visit and her response to Solomon's wisdom.

Matthew 12:42
Jesus references the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon, highlighting her recognition of wisdom and comparing it to the greater wisdom found in Himself.

Proverbs 3:13-18
These verses extol the value of wisdom, which is exemplified in Solomon's reign and the Queen of Sheba's acknowledgment of it.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who gives generously, reflecting the divine source of Solomon's wisdom.