1 Kings 10: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 1 Kings 10 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The queen of Sheba visits Solomon in Jerusalem to test him with hard questions (vv. 1-3). She arrives with a great caravan filled with spices, gold, and precious stones.

Key verse

“She said to the king, “It was a true report that I heard in my own land of your acts, and of your wisdom. However I didn’t believe the words until I came and my eyes had seen it. Behold, not even half was told me! Your wisdom and prosperity exceed the fame which I heard.”
1 Kings 10:6-7 (WEB)

Outline

1 Kings 10:1–3 The Queen of Sheba Visits Solomon
1 Kings 10:4–9 Recognition of Solomon's Wisdom
1 Kings 10:10–13 The Queen's Gifts and Departure
1 Kings 10:14–22 Solomon's Wealth and Splendor
1 Kings 10:23–29 Solomon's Power and Trade

Discussion questions

In v2, what items does the queen of Sheba bring with her to Jerusalem?
What is the reaction of the queen of Sheba in v5 after seeing the splendor of Solomon's court?
The queen's statement in v9 about blessedness: what does her blessing of Yahweh imply about her understanding of Israel's God?
In v23, Solomon is said to exceed all kings in riches and wisdom; how might this connect to God's promises to David?
When have you been surprised by someone’s wisdom or abilities, as the queen was in v7 with Solomon?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 1 Kings 10: 2 Chronicles 9, Psalm 72, 1 Kings 3.

Before next time: read 1 Kings 11.