Who Was the Queen of Sheba?
The Queen of Sheba, known in the New Testament as the queen of the South (Luke 11:31) visited Solomon to examine his wisdom. Solomon, whose name means, “peaceful,” was also known as Jedidiah, beloved of the Lord, who lived in Jerusalem. He was the tenth son of David, born to Bathsheba. He had numerous half-brothers, and half-sisters including Absalom, and Adonijah. He married numerous wives and concubines including the daughter of Pharaoh. He was the father of Rehoboam and the King of Israel.
The Queen of Sheba ruled a country that was most likely in southwest Arabia, a mighty commercial power specializing in the trade of perfume and incense. During her visit, it is said that she probably negotiated a trade agreement as well as provisions for safe passage of her merchant’s caravans through Israel’s territory.
Having heard astonishing reports of Solomon’s wisdom and splendor, she found him exceeding his reputation. In response, she worshiped the God of Israel and presented Solomon with an abundance of gold, jewels, and more spices than the kingdom had ever received before. In exchange, Solomon was equally generous, giving her all she desired, whatever she asked, besides what he had given her according to the royal generosity (1 Kings 10:13).
Commenting on her story, Jesus warned his listeners that this queen would rise up in judgment on their generation. When she came to Solomon and saw his greatness, her response was not jealousy or denial, but awe and thanksgiving. She acknowledged Solomon’s greatness and honored his God.
By contrast, Jesus’ generation had met one greater than Solomon- The Messiah Himself- and their response had been unbelief (Luke 11:29). So He predicted that a woman who rules a powerful country would someday put them to shame because she, like Solomon, was wise. The queen of Sheba was a forerunner of women of power and influence, who are in awe of the Truth & Living God, an example for all women.
Submitted by Deaconess Irene Gardon