Tyndale Open Study Notes2 Chronicles 9

Solomon had long-term economic and political ties with Hiram of Tyre (2 Chronicles 8:17–18; 9:10–11), but the queen of Sheba visited only once. Ancient Sheba, roughly modern Yemen, was known for its female rulers and a wealthy economy based on trading frankincense and myrrh. An ancient tradition suggests the queen of Sheba came from Cush (Ethiopia), possibly due to Sheba, son of Raamah, a descendant of Cush (Genesis 10:7; 1 Chronicles 1:9).

The queen noticed the impressive splendor of Solomon's court, showcasing his wealth and wisdom.

• 120 talents: The queen gave Solomon gold equal to what he received from Hiram (see 1 Kings 9:14).

• The queen’s gift of spices, such as frankincense and myrrh, were used in cosmetics, embalming, and religious offerings. High demand and repeated taxation along the long trade route made the spices as valuable as gold when given to a king (see Matthew 2:11). Solomon was so wealthy that the queen had to give an enormous gift for it to be significant.

The phrase "translated each year" can also mean one specific year. This makes it unclear if 25 tons referred to Solomon's yearly income or just his best year. Solomon also collected taxes from foreign traders and local merchants. The kings of Arabia were likely merchant leaders who used the routes from Edom to Damascus. The governors of the provinces were district officials.

In ancient Syria and Assyria, people often used ornamental and ceremonial shields. Large shields covered the whole body and might have had three sides. Small shields, worn on the arm, offered light protection. Guards showed their shields when the king went to the temple.

Solomon's throne was very impressive. It had six steps, and the throne might have been on a platform that made a seventh step. Similar Babylonian temple towers had seven stages to symbolize the whole universe.

• Solomon's fleet of trading ships from Tarshish transported cargo. These strong ships had a unique shape that allowed them to sail long distances in the open sea.

• and peacocks: The meaning of the Hebrew word is unclear. Solomon was so influential that he imported fine goods and exotic animals from the farthest parts of the known world.

The Chronicler likely used collections of prophetic writings or historical records as sources. The works of individual prophets might have been included in larger collections. These sources are now lost. Nathan and Ahijah were active during the reigns of David and Solomon. Iddo is not well-known.

Solomon ruled from 971 to 931 BC.