CHAP. X. The queen of Sheba comes to visit Sal. omen, and to propose hard questions to hin, 1, 2. le auswers lier ques tions and she greatly admires his 9. Their presents to each other, 10 vessels, and lucrative commerce; and piety, wisdom, and magnificence, 3 13. Solomon's yearly revenue, 14,15. His gollen targets and shields, 16,17. His throne of ivory, 18-20. His rich the presents brought him, by such as came to hear his wisdom, 21-25 H chariots and horsemen, 26. The plenty of silver and cedar in his time, 27. Horses, chariots, and linen-yarn, 1 when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to prove, him with hard questions. brought out of Egypt, 29, 29. AND 2 And she came to Jerusalem with 'a very great train, with camels that bare spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart. . 3 And Solomon told her all her questions: there was not any thing hid from the king, which he told her not. 5 And the meat of 2 Chr. 9:1. Matt. 12:42. Luke 11:31. b Gen. 10:7,28. 25:3. Job 6:19. P. 72:10,15. I. 60:6. Jer. 6:20. Ez. 27:22,23. 38:13. c 4:31,34. modity traded for, substantial wealth. It should СНАР. Х. and to prove him, whether he was so great a man as he was reported to be, v. 1. His fleet sailed near the coast of her country, and, probably, might put in there for fresh water: perhaps it was thus she heard of the fame of Solomon. She came to receive instruction; also, to hear his wisdom, and thereby to improve her own, (Matt. 12: 42.) that she might the better govern her kingdom. Those whom God has called to any public employment, particularly in the magistracy and ministry, should, by all means possible, improve themselves in that knowledge which will more and more qualify them for it, and enable them to discharge their trust well. But, it should seem, what she chiefly aimed at was, to be instructed in the things of God; she was religiously inclined, and had heard not only of the fame of Solomon, but concerning the name of the Lord, (v. 1.) the great name of that God whom Solomon worshipped, and from whom he received his wisdom, and with this God she desired to be better acquainted. Therefore does our Savior mention her inquiries after God, by Solomon, as aggravating the stupidity of those who inquire not after Ged, by our Lord Jesus Christ, though He, having lain in his bosom, was much better able to instruct them. Still Solomon looks great, and every thing in this ch. adds to his magnificence. II. Her equipage; a very great retinue, agreeWe read nothing indeed of his charity, of no hos- able to her rank, intending to try Solomon's pitals he built, or alms-houses; he made his king-wealth and generosity, as well as his wisdom, what dom so rich, that it did not need them; yet, no entertainment he could, and would, give to a royal question, many poor were relieved from the abun- visitant, v. 2. Yet she came not as one begging, dance of his table. A church he had built, never but brought enough to bear her charges; nothing to be equalled; schools or colleges he need not mean or common, but gold, and precious stones, build any, his own palace is an academy, and his and spices, because she came to trade for wisdom, well as the centre of all the circulating riches of court a rendezvous of wise and learned men, as which she would purchase at any rate. that part of the world. So that, putting all together, it must be ownel, as it is here said, (v. 23.) that hing Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth for riches, and for wisdom. Yet where Christ is, by his Word and Spirit, behold, a greater than Solomon is there. V. 1-13. We have here an account of the queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon, no doubt, when in the height of his piety and prosperity. Our Savior calls her the queen of the South, for Sheba lay S. from Canaan. The common opinion is, it was in Africa; and the Christians in Ethiopia, to this day, are confident she came from their country, and that Candace, mentioned,Acts 8: 27. was her successor. But it is more probable she came from the S. part of Arabia the Happy. It Gen. 19:33. Job 4:2. P. 4:4. Luke should seem, she was a queen-regent, sovereign of her country. Observe, d Job 29:23. Prov. 2:3-6. John 17:3. 1 Cor. 1:20,21. e Judg. 14:12-14. Ps. 49:4. Prov. 1:6. Matt. 13:11,35. Mark 4:34. 23. f 2 Kings 5:5,9. Is. 60:6-9. Acts 25: Ex. 25:6. 2 Kings 20:13. 24:15. 12 Chr. 9:2. Prov. 1:5,6. 13:20. Is. 42:16. Matt. 13:11. John 7:17. 1 Cor. 1:30. Col. 2:3. • Heb. words. See on 1-3:12. 2 Sam. 14:17,20. Dan. 2:20-23. Heb. 4:12,13. k3:29. 4:29-31. 2 Chr. 9:3,4. Ec. 12:9. Matt. 14:42. 16: 7: m 4:22,23. I. Her errand; not to treat of trade or commerce, to adjust the limits of their dominions, to court his alliance for their mutual strength, or his assistance against some common enemy, the common occasions of the congress of crowned heads, and their interviews: but to satisfy her curiosity; NOTES. CHAP. X. V. 1, 2. Cush, the son of Ham, had a descendant called Seba, and, probably, he settled in Africa, to the S. of Egypt. (Gen. 10: 6,7) Eber also had a descendant called Sheba; and Abraham, a grandson by Keturah, called by the same name. (Gen. 10:28, 25:1-3.) On these and other accounts, it has been controverted, whether the queen of Sheba came from some part of Ethiopia in Africa, or from the most remote region of Arabia, near the Indian ocean, in Asia.Tradition favors the former opinion, but then it is blended with manifest falsehoods. (See Dr. A. Clarke.] Our Lord says, The queen of the south came from the uttermost part of the earth, to hear the wisdom of Solomon:' and Ethiopia is more distant from Jerusalem than any part of Arabia; but at the same time it does not so well answer the description, the uttermost part of the earth.' (Matt. 12:42. Note, Deut. 30 13.) Learned men are therefore now generally of opinion, that Sheba lay in the most southern part of Arabia Felix, between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean; that the queen of Sheba was descended from Abraham by Keturah, and retained some traditional fragments of true religion; and that she had heard the fame of Solomon from the mariners of the fleet to Ophir, which had put into some of her ports and indeed the more general connection, in which the name Sheba is used, in the subsequent part of Scripture, powerfully confirms this conclusion. (M. R. b.)-Our Lord's testimony, to the motives which influenced the queen of Sheba, sufficiently refutes the disadvantageons surmises which have often been entertained and advanced. She had heard of the fame of Solomon, concerning the name of the Loan,' and she came to hear his wisdom. The report of his knowledge in the truth and precepts of religion, of his piety and zeal in the Worship of JEHOVAH, and of the wisdom given him, peculiarly attracted her attention: and she came to propose many questions to him, which perplexed her mind, upon those important subjects; she could III. What entertainment Solomon gave her; he despised her not, nor blamed her; but bid her welcome, and all her train; allowed her to commune with him of all that was in her heart, (v. 2.) and gave her a satisfactory answer to all her questions, (v. 3.) whether natural, moral, political, or divine. He informed her, no doubt, with particular care, concerning God, and his law and instituted worship, that she might be persuaded to serve the Lord whom now she sought. IV. How she was affected with what she saw and heard in Solomon's court. Divers things are here mentioned which she admired; the buildings and furniture of his palace; the provision made every day for his table; the orderly sitting of his servants, and the ready attendance of his ministers, without confusion, their rich liveries, and the propriety with which his cup-bearers waited at table; these things she admired, as adding much to his magnificence. But above all these, his wisdom, (v. 4.) and the last, which crowned all, his piety, the ascent by which he went up to the house of the Lord, with what gravity and seriousness, and an air of devotion in his countenance, he appeared, when he went to the temple, to wor meet with no one, who could clear them up to her; and she desired to prove him,' whether he could or not. This shows that she was used to reflect seriously on religion; but for want of proper instruction, was not able to obtain satisfactory solutions of her difficulties: and considering her sex and rank, and the magnificence and indulgence in which she might have lived at home; her long journey, undertaken for these purposes, formed a strong proof of a pious and ingenuous mind, which knew the value of true wisdom, and was willing to buy the truth' at any price. (Prov. 23:25. Acts 8:26-31.) Hard questions. (1) translated a riddle; Judg. 14:12-18. dark saying, Ps. 49:4-The plural, dark sayings, Ps. 78:2. Prov. 16-P8. 78 2. Prov. 1:6. SCOTT. Riddles, problems, fables, apologues, &c. formed the principal part of the wisdom of the E.; indeed they use and delight in them to the present day.' Dr. 4. Clarke. Note, Judg. 14: 12.The Hindoos, especially their females, take great delight in riddles, apologues and fables. By this method they convey pleasure, instruction, or reproof.' ROBERTS. Verses 4, 5. M. R. This event probably took place about the middle of Solomon's reign, at least before he began to turn aside to idolatry. SCOTT. (5.) No more spirit (breath?) in her.] She fainted. I have seen precisely the same effect produced: a lady, who was herself an artist, viewing some exquisitely finished oriental paintings, was so struck with astonishment, that she twice nearly fainted; and was obliged to leave the room. What happened to the queen of Sheba is a natural and not uncommon effect, which will be produced in a delicate, sensible [sensitive] mind, at the sight of rare and extraordinary productions of art.' Dr. A. CLARKE. Fainting is often produced by over excitement of wonder, and its kindred sentiments, in camp-meetings, &c. ED. [235] 7 Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it and behold, the half was not told me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the fame which I heard. 8 Happy are thy men, 4 happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and that hear thy wisdom. 9 Blessed P be the LORD thy God, which 'delighted in thee, to set thee on the throne of Israel: because the LORD loved Israel for ever, therefore made he thee king, "to do judgment and justice. 10 And she gave the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold, and of spices very great store, and precious came stones: there no more such abundance of spices as these which the queen ship God; with as much humility then, as majesty | didiah, because the Lord loved him, 2 Sam. 12: 25. V. How she expressed herself on this occasion. grace, are brought to experience the delights of communion with God, will say the one half was present to Solomon, v. 10. David had foretold VI. How they parted. 1. She made a noble concerning Solomon, that to him should be given of the gold of Sheba, Ps. 72: 15. The present of gold and spices the wise men of the east brought to Christ, was signified by this, Matt. 2: 11. Let those that are taught of God, give Him their hearts, and the present will be more acceptable than this of gold and spices. Mention is made of the great abundance Solomon had of his own, notwithstanding she presented, and he accepted, this gold. What we present to Christ, He needs not, but will have us so to express our gratitude. The almug-trees are here spoken of, (v. 11, 12.) as by the queen of Sheba. 2. Solomon was not beextraordinary, because, perhaps, much admired hindhand with her. He gave her whatsoever she ask• ed, patterns, we may suppose, of curious things, by which she might make the like; or, perhaps, 3. She blessed God, the Giver of Solomon's he gave her his precepts of wisdom and piety in wisdom, wealth, and advancement. Solomon's writing, beside that which he gave her of his royal preferment began in the prophet's calling him Je-bounty, v. 13. Thus they who apply themselves 2. She pronounced them happy, that constantly attended him, and waited on him, v. 8. She was tempted to envy them,and wish herself one of them. Note, It is a great advantage to be in good families, and to have opportunity of frequent converse with those that are wise, good, and communicahow to value it. With much more reason may tive. Many have this happiness, who know not we say this of Christ's servants, Blessed are they that dwell in his house, they will be still praising Him. V. 1-5. Wisdom and piety are exceedingly valuable, and those, who form a due estimate of their worth, will think no expense or labor too great to obtain them.-When we first attend seriously to religion, we meet with many hard questions,' which we cannot resolve, and which often perplex and distress our minde, especially if at a distance from proper instructions. But then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD;' and by consulting wise and experienced Christians, we shall be delivered from our difficulties, and a clearer light will shine on our path. (Prov. 4: 18, 19. Is. 42: 13-17. Hos. 6: 1-3. John 7: Verses 6-9. These sentiments concerning the sovereignty and providence of God, the Giver of all wisdom and prosperity; his free and unfailing love to his people; the duty of kings; and the happiness of those nations who are favored with those that do their duty; together with her praising God for his love to his people, in which she cordially rejoiced, prove an understanding and pious mind. SCOTT. Verses 11, 12. It is not known what kind of wood is intended by the words almugtrees, or algum-trees: but the specimen brought from Sheba would remain to posterity in the pillars, or rails, and the musical instruments, made of it. (2 Chr. 2:8. 9:10, 11.) ScOTT. The Vulg. has thyina, [the 'lignum vitæ.' Dr. A. C.] Sept. wrought: Celsius queries if it be not sandal: but Michaelis considers the wood as entirely unknown to us. Shaw supposes it the cypress (and so the Syr.), still used in Italy &c. for stringed instruments. Josephus says it was like the wood of the fig tree, but whiter and more shining, a pine, but dif 8:2. Heb. thou hast added wisdom and goodness to the fame. q 2 Chr. 9:7,8. Prov. 3:13,14. 8:34. 10:21. 13:20. Luke 10:39-42 11: 28,31. r See on 5:7.-Ps. 72:17-19. Ps. 18:19. 22:8. 1. 42:1. 62:4. t Deut. 7:8. 1 Chr. 17:22. 2 Chr. 11. u 2 Sam. 8:15. 23:3. P. 72:2. Prov. 8:15,16. ls. 9:7. 11:4,5. 31,2 Jer 23:5,6. Rom. 13:3,4. v See on 2. 9:14.-Matt. 2:11. x Gen. 43:11. Ex. 30:34. y Prov. 3:13-15. 20:15. Rev. 21:11. b 1 Chr. 23:5. 25:1, &c. Pa. 92:1-3. c 2. 9:1. Pa. 20:4. 37:4. Matt. 18 14-17.)-Those who possess wisdom and knowledge, ought to be courteous and accessible, and glad to communicate them for the good of others; even as the rich should be to impart their wealth.-Our greatest diligence, constancy, seriousness, and cheerfulness, should be manifested, in attending on the ordinan ces of God; that our example may influence others to serve Him in reverence and godly fear. This gives a lustre to wisdom, learning, wealth, or greatness: but alas! how few are ambitious of this honor that cometh from God! how little of this is seen in our princes, and nobles, and great men! SCOTT. ferent from that usually so called.' HARRIS. The Arab, has colored wood, and adds, for that wood was by nature painted with various colors: which Dr. A. Clarke thinks' nearest the truth, 'adding,' wood shaded, as rose-wood and the like, now brought from the E. Indies, and the Arab. says they brought it from Hind (India). And for inlay. ing and veneering nothing can be finer than this wood.' The 5 and stringed ancient Egyptian musical instruments in the cut, 2 Sam. 6:5 are represented of a light chestnut color. ED. Verse 13. 'Pagan, Arab, Moor, and all the countries round, vouch for this expedition of this queen, nearly in the terms of Scripture. Her name, the Arabs say, was Belkis, the Abyssinians, Maquida, and all the traditions concerning her, state that she had a son, Menilek, by Solomon, who was brought up at the Israelitish court, succeeded his mother in the kingdom of Saba, or Azab, and introduced among his subjects the Jewish religion.' See Bruce. Dr. A. CLARKE own country, she and to our Lord Jesus, will find Him not only greater [Practical Observations.] 14 Now the weight of gold, that came to Solomon in one year, was six hundred threescore and six talents of gold; 15 Besides that he had of the merchant-men, and of the traffic of the spice-merchants, and of all the kings of Arabia, and of the governors of the country. 16 And king Solomon made 'two hundred targets of beaten gold: six hundred shekels of gold went to one target. 17 And he made three hundred shields of beaten gold: three pound of gold went to shield: and the king put them in the house of the forest of Lebanon. 18 Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with the best gold. one 19 The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round t behind: and there were stays on either side on the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the stays. much exposed the folly, that we cannot suppose than Solomon, and wiser, but more kind; what- he should himself be guilty of it. No; God that soever we ask, it shall be done for us; nay, He had given him riches, and wealth, and honor, will, out of his divine bounty, which infinitely ex-gave him also power to eat thereof, and to take ceeds royal bounty, even Solomon's, do for us his portion, Eccl. 5: 19. more than we ask or think. V. 14-29. We have here a further account of Solomon's prosperity: 1. He laid out his gold in fine things for himself, which he might the better be allowed to do, when he had, before, laid out so much in fine things for the house of God, (v. 16, 17.) not for service, but for state; he had shields and targets carried before him, to signify that he took pleasure in using his power for the defence and protection of the go, to whom he would be a praise. Magistrates are shields of the earth. He made a stately throne, on which he sat, to give laws to ment on appeals, v. 18-20. It was of ivory, or his subjects, audier re to ambassadors, and judgelephants' teeth, ver rich; yet, as if he had so much gold he knew not what to do with it, he overlaid that with gold, the best. Yet, some think, he did not cover the i ory all over, but here and there. He rolled it, flowered it, or inlaid it, with gold. The stays, or arms, were supported by the images of lions in gold; so the steps by which he went up to it, to be a memorandum to him of that courage and resolution wherewith he ought to execute judgment, not fearing the face of man. The righteous, in that post, is bold as a lion. He made all his drinking-vessels, and all the furniture of v. 21. He did not grudge himself what he had, his table, even at his country-seat, of pure gold, but took the credit and comfort of it, such as it wag. That is good, that does us good. I. How he increased his wealth. Though he had much, he still coveted to have more, being willing to try the utmost the things of this world could do, to make men happy. He received a great deal, in customs, from the merchants, and in land-taxes, from the countries his father had made tributaries to Israel, v. 15. He imported, substantial goods, and serviceable, but apes to once in three years, not only gold, silver, ivory, play with, and peacocks to please the eye with their feathers, v. 22. He had presents made him every year, from the neighboring princes and great men, not so much because they feared him, or were jealous of him, as because they loved him, and admired his wisdom, had often occasion to consult him, and sent him these presents by way of recompense for his advice in politics; and he took all that came, even garments and spices, horses and mules, v. 24, 25. He traded to Egypt for horses, and linen-yarn, (or, as some read it, linen-cloth,) the staple commodities of tors in this traffic, who were accountable to him, that country, and had his own merchants or facv. 28, 29. The custom to be paid to the king of Egypt, for exported chariots and horses out of Egypt, was very high, but (so Patrick) Solomon, 2. He made it circulate among his subjects, so having married his daughter, got him to compound that the kingdom was as rich as the king; he had for the customs, so that he could bring them up no separate interests of his own to consult, but cheaper than his neighbors, which obliged them sought the welfare of his people. Those princes to buy of him, which he was wise enough, no are not governed by Solomon's maxims, who doubt, to make his advantage of. This puts an think it policy to keep their subjects poor. Solhonor on trading, that Solomon, one of the great-omon was, herein, a type of Christ, who is not est men that ever was, thought it no disparage- only rich Himself, but enriches all that are his. ment to him to trade. In all labor there is profit. Solomon was instrumental to bring so much gold into the country, and disperse it, that silver was There was such nothing accounted of, v. 21. II. What use he made of his wealth. He did not hoard it up to look upon, and leave behind him. Of this he has, in his Ecclesiastes, so plenty of it in Jerusalem, it was as the stones; f 14:26-28. 2 Chr. 9:15, 16. 12:9,10. g See ou 7:2. h2 Chr. 9:17-19. Pa. 45:6. 122:5. Heb. 1:8,8. Rev. 20:11. PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS. V. 6-13. There is a spiritual excellency in heavenly things, and in consistent Christians, to which no reports can do justice: and the better they are known, the more they will be esteemed and relished. All our comforts and prospects spring from the Lord's love to us: He delights in the fruits of his own Spirit; and He communicates many good gifts to magistrates, ministers, and private Christians, out of love to his people, that they may be serviceable to them; and happy are they, who are governed and instructed by those, in whom the Lord delighteth.' This indeed has hitherto been a very uncommon case; and many are ready to conclude that it never can become general: but the Scriptures assure us, that at length it shall be the privilege and felicity of every nation under heaven.-The awakened sinner, oppressed with difficulties, objections, and fears, hears the report of the Savior's acts and wisdom, and riches and love; but can scarcely believe the report. With trouble, self-denial, and the forsaking of many earthly things, he resorts by faith and prayer to Him, and is graciously encouraged, and entertained: the Lord's effectual teaching dispels his darkness and distress; He shows him his glory and grace, satisfies him with the provisions of his house, and enriches him from his treasures of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.' The rejoicing believer no longer glories in himself, and his own attainments: nor is he terrified, though humbled with the consciousness of his own guilt and pollution. The person, the character, the love, of Jesus Verses 14, 15. Verses 16, 17. Perhaps the kings of Arabia were induced, by the queen of Sheba's report and example, to pay court to Solomon and send him presents. SCOTT. (15.) Merchantmen.] Port-collectors, lit. searchers; Geddes, with lesa probability, renders miners.' BOOTHROYD. Targets. Tsinnah. It might resemble the Highland target, with a dagger projecting from the umbo, or centre. Shields.] Magen. A large shield to protect the whole body: [cut, Ps. 18:2.] Mr. Reynolds Computes the targets as worth 28,1317. 18. 191d. and the shields, (with 3 lbs. of gold each,) 210,9761, 75. 74.' Dr. A. CLARKE, 110:1. 1 22. 22:39. Ps. 45:8. Er. 27:6. Am. attract and engross his admiring attention, while they confirm his lively hopes of salvation: and he finds, by experience, the half was not told him of his excellency and preciousness. He now congratulates the felicity of the meanest servant of the Redeemer, but especially that of those above, who always behold his face and do his will.—He blesses the Lord for his love to Israel, in giving them such a Prince and Savior, and yields up himself both to be ruled and saved by Him: and though Jesus needs not, and is not enriched by, all that he can render to Him; yet he devotes his riches and talents to his service, and they are graciously accepted, and recompensed with all that he can desire: yea, of his royal bounty, our Prince of Peace gives more than any petitioner asks or thinks.' The believer, who has thus been with Jesus, will return to his station in society, to discharge his duty, with new alacrity, from purer motives, and to nobler purposes. Yet, he will still look forward to the day, when, being absent from the body, he shall be present with the Lord;' and when his transient glimpses of the Savior's glory, which overpower him with admiration, shall be exchanged for uninterrupted vision, with faculties enlarged, and strengthened to endure and delight in that ineffable refulgency. But who can express or conceive aright of that state of happiness? Oh, may the writer, and every reader of these observations, aspire after that unutterable felicity, and at length rejoice in it together! SCOTT. Verses 18-20. Judah was compared by Jacob to a young lion; and our Lord is called 'the Lion of the tribe of Judah.' (Gen. 49:8, 9. Rev. 5·5—7.) SCOTT. (18, 19.) Overlaid.] 'Rather, inlaid.' Taylor. Round behind.] Heb. rosh agol lakkisséh meacharayu. Lit. caput rotundum solio a fost ipsum. A round head (top) to the back (part) of the throne. Vulg. summitas throni rotunda erat in parte posteriori. The top of the throne was round, at the back. So the Syr. and Arab. The Chal. also has, there was a round head to the throne on its back part. (The Sept. has, and the fore parts of a heifer on it behind.) Dr. A. Clarke considers it to have been like one of our ancient round topped, two-arm[237] 20 And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom. 21 And all king Solomon's drinking vessels were of gold, and all the vessels of m the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold; none were of silver: it was nothing accounted of in the days of Solomon. 22 For the king had at sea a navy of "Tharshish with the navy of and cedars, that used to be great rarities, were | for the wealth and honor of it, but for a wise and Well, thus rich, thus great, was Solomon, and Hiram: once in three ed chairs. Stays, &c.] Yadoth, hands, vulg. arms. Vulg. due manus tenentes sedile. Chal. sustentacula hinc et inde super locum sessionis, et duo leones stabant in latere sustentacule, [super locum sessionis?] Arab. On each side of the seat respectively, he made a supporter (fulcrum), and upon its two sides i. e. of the seat] he placed two golden lions, one on the right and one on the left.' The version of Pagnini' says M. Costaz, 'is the most literal and clearest, summitas rotunda erat solio a parte posteriori, et manus hinc et inde ad locum sessionis, et duo leones stabant apud manus.' A throne is given below, taken from the tombs of the kings at Thebes, which exactly answers this description. There is a tradition (says Dr. 4. Clarke, in another place) of the rabbins, particularly Jarchi, that 'Shishak invaded Israel in order to get the ivory throne of his son-in-law, Solomon, which he had always coveted, and this throne he carried away' into Egypt, when he plundered Jerusalem, and took away all the treasures of the king's house.' (1 K. 14.26.) Was this throne depicted in these tombs, (where appear several other thrones,) with the other trophies of victory, and who are the captives represented beneath the seat, and by whom added to the throne? A knowledge of the era of the builder of this tomb would settle the curious question, whether this is a painting of the throne of Solomon described in vs. 18, 19. The cushion is of a dark purple (leather of a Tyrian dye?) with very dark or black spots, the frame of the chair is pale blue, (of stained ivory?) inlaid with white (ivory?). The lions are yellow, gold?) as are the supports of the feet, and the fancy-work on the legs. But it is probably only a picture of its model, and its existence possibly occasioned the Jewish tradition. It appears in the Harpers tomb,' of Bruce, &c. (No 11' of Wilkinson. 5, to the E.' of Champ.) the 'catacomb of the harps' of the French commissioners. The monarch whose name here occurs, is Remeses III, (1235 B. C. [1561 Champ.]) but that of his father and predecessor is traced beneath the ovals of Remeses, who appropriated and completed the subjects on its walls. This catacomb is 405 ft. long, and has many chambers. Its descent is 31 ft.' See the description of its magnificence, in Wilkinson, and the great French work. ED. 23 So king Solomon k Gen. 49:9. Num. 23:24. 24:9. Rev. 12 Chr. 9:20-22. m 17. 7:2. Tarshish. Or, elephant's teeth. 18. Am. 3:15. • Job 39.13. 1 3:12,13. 4:30,31. 2 Chr. 9:22,23. Pe. 89:27. Eph. 3:3. Col. 1:18,19. 2:2,3. Verse 22. Many learned men have endeavored to show that Tharshish was a city in Spain, called Tartessus; and some think that this navy, which Solomon had with the navy of Hiram, was distinct from that which traded to Ophir, and was fitted out from some port on the Mediterranean: and they account for the length of time taken up in each voy age, by supposing that a great part of it was employed in selling and buying, or bartering, the several articles of commerce.-But, whatever gold might be, ivory, apes, and peacocks, (or parrots, as some render the word,) do not seem to have been articles of trade in any of the countries bordering on the Mediterranean. Jehoshaphat made ships of Tharshish to go to Ophir for gold: but they went not for the ships were broken at Ezion-gaber. He joined himself with Ahaziah to make ships to go to Tharshish, and they made the ships in Ezion-gaber.... And the ships were broken, that they were not able to go to Tharshish.' (22:48, 49. 2 Chr. 20: 35-37.) These passages being decisive proofs that the ships of Tharshish, ships to go to Tharshish, were built at Ezion-gaber on the Red Sea, the learned Ep. Lowth, (having adopted the opinion, that Tharshish was Tartessus in Spain,) says, Tharshish is celebrated in Scripture for the trade, which Solomon carried on thither in conjunction with the Tyrians. Jehoshaphat attempted afterward to renew that trade; and from the account given of that attempt, it appears, that this fleet was to sail from Ezion-gaber on the Red Sea, and must therefore have designed to sail round Africa, as Solomon's fleet probably had done before: for it was a three years' voyage; and they brought gold from Ophir, probably from the coast of Arabia, silver from Tartessus, and ivory, apes, and peacocks, from Africa.-It is certain, that under Pharaoh-necho, about 200 years after, this voyage was made by the Egyptians,' &c. Bp. Louth on Is. 2:13-16.-But, with all deference to so eminent a writer, it must be allowed extremely improbable, that in regular voyages, for commerce, (not discovery, for which Pharaoh-necho's extraordinary expedition doubtless was undertaken,) such a circuitous course should be chosen; when, as far as we can learn, it was not then known that Africa was a peninsula! To fit out cre navy at Ezion-gaber, for Ophir, whether in Arabia, or the East Indies, which might coast some parts of Africa; and to fit out another navy to Spain from some Mediterranean port, would be an obvious and compendious measure: but that the same ships should attempt the whole, and after taking in the far richest part of their freight, comparatively near home; should with it attempt to sail round Africa, in order to add silver, and some other articles of inferior value, at Tartessus, must strike every reflecting person as s most unparalleled proceeding.-To sail round Africa at that time, would be immensely more formidable, than a voyage round the world at present and a single glance at a map must convince any person, acquainted with commerce, that no man of common prudence would ever think of such a voyage for lucrative purposes.-Tharshish seems indeed, in some places, to mean Tartessus, or Tarsus, or son e place connected with the Mediterranean: for Jonah embarked for Tharshish at Joppa; and Joppa is situated on the Mediterranean. Ships of Thar shish seem also sometimes to mean any large ships fitted out for long voyages. But in this place, and some others referred to, if the text be not corrupted, (which there is not the least reason to suppee) Tharshish must mean some place in the East Indies, or bordering on the Indian Ocean. (2 Chr. 9:13-21, v. 21.) Verses 22, 23. SCOTT. In a tomb at Thebes, blacks and people of a red color bring to the king of Egypt from the country of Pount,' ivory, apes, leopards, skins and dried fruits. Apes were used as buffoons in Egypt, as is evident from other drawings on their monuments. 'Gentiles of the south," (so called in the hieroglyphics) Ethiopians bring gold rings (the ancient money of Egypt was gold and silver rings) and bags of precious stones (?) hides, apes, leopards, ebony, ivory, ostrich eggs and plumes, a camelopard, hounds with handsome collars, and a drove of longhorned oven. Another group of light red race, the Gentiles, Shemme) of Kufa,' bring vases of elegant forms ornamented with flowers, neck laces and other costly gifts. Still another group of white men wearing close sleeves (from the N.?) bring long gloves, vases, a chariot and horses, a bear, elephant, and ivory. Their name is Rot-n-no. The Ethiopians are generally styled Cush in the hieroglyphics. Ebony, si ver cups, and vases of silver and of porcelain, with rare woods, &c. are among the articles offered the king. See Wilkinson. ED. (23.) Mr. Reynolds makes Solomon's income to be, each year 142,242,034/. 98. 74. each day, 390,7701. 16s. 41d.' Dr. A. CLARKE, 26 And Solomon gathered together charfots and horsemen : and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen, whom he bestowed in the cities for chariots, and with the king at Jerusalem. 27 And the king † made silver to be in Jerusalem as stones, and cedars made he to be as the sycamore-trees that are in the vale, for abundance. 28 And Solomon had 'horses brought out of Egypt, and linen ness, as that which is the whole of man, and will utation for religion, in any thing, set a bad cxOne bad act ample, they know not what mischief it may do, particularly to their own children. of a good man may be of more pernicious consequence to others, than twenty of a wicked man. Probably Solomon, at first, intended not to exceed his father's number. Divine wisdom has appointed one woman for one man: they who do not think one enough, will not think two or three enough; CHAP. XI. This ch. begins with as melan-unbridled lust will be unbounded; the loosened choly a but as almost any in all the Bible. Hith-hind will wander endlessly. But this was not all: erto, we have read nothing of Solomon, but what They were strange women, v. 2. Some think he married them in policy, by them to get intelligence of the state of those countries. I rather fear it was because the daughters of Israel were too grave and modest for him, and these pleased him with their wantonness. Or, perhaps, for state, to have his seraglio, as his other treasI. Let us inquire into the occasions and partic-ures, replenished with what was far-fetched. To ulars of it. V. 1-8. We have here a sad story, and very surprising, of Solomon's defection and degene racy. was complete the mischief, Solomon clave unto these in love, v. 2. Solomon was master of a great deal of knowledge, but to what purpose, when he had no better government of his appetites? 1. He doted on strange women, many strange women. This his mother had particularly cautioned him against; (Prov. 31: 3.) Give not thy 2. He was drawn by them to the worship of strength unto women; for it is that which, as much as any thing, destroys kings. His father David's strange gods. We have reason to think it imfall began with the lusts of the flesh, which he paired his health, and hastened on him the decays should have taken warning by. The love of wo-of age; his treasure, too, though vast, would be men has cast down many wounded, Prov. 7: 26. little enough to maintain the pride and vanity of He took many women, 1000 in all, and not one all these women; perhaps it occasioned him, in good one among them, as he himself owns in his his latter end, to neglect his business, by which penitential sermon, (Eccl. 7: 28.) for no woman he lost his supplies from abroad, and was forced of established virtue would be one of such a set. to burden his subjects, to keep up his grandeur; But none of these consequences were God had, by his law, particularly forbidden the ch. 12: 4. kings to multiply either horses or wives, Deut. so bad as this, His wives turned away his heart [Few things more unfit 17: 16, 17. He broke the former law, in multi- after other gods, v. 3, 4. plying horses, and having them out of Egypt too, the mind for communion with God, than excess ch. 10: 29. here, he broke the latter. Note, Less in such indulgence.] We cannot suppose he quite sins, made bold with, open the door to great- cast off the worship of God, much less that he er. Perhaps he presumed it lawful, because David restrained or hindered it; the temple-service went yarn: the king's mer- had multiplied his wives. Note, If those in rep-on as usual; but he grew less frequent and less chants received the linen yarn at a price. 29 And a chariot came up and went out of Egypt for six hundred shekels of silver, and an horse for an hundred and fifty; and so for all the kings of the Hittites, and for the kings of Syria, did they bring them out by their means. CHAP. XI. Solomon, having taken very many wives BUT king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Heb. the face of. m See on 3:9,12,28.-Prov. 2:6. Dan. n 10. Judg. 3:15. 1 Sam. 10:27. o 1:33. 18:5. Gen. 36:24. 2 Matt. 2:11. Ezra 2:66. 2 Chr. 1:15-17. 9:27. Job 22:24,25. ↑ Heb. gave. Heb. the going forth of the horses which was Solomon's. t Deut. 17:16, 2 Chr. 1:16,17. 9:28. I. 31:1-3. 36:9. u Gen. 41:42. Prov. 7:16. Is. 19:9. Ez. 27:7. x Josh. 1:4. 2 Kings 7:6. Heb. their hand. Hos. 12:10. Mal. 1:1. margins. accounted of. Such possessions always multiply cares and temptations: and they generally undermine humility and heavenlymindedness, and eat out the life of religion, by leading to sensual indulgence, avarice, ostentation, or the pride of life. But the spiritual peace, riches, and abundance of the Redeemer's kingdom, are of another nature: they satisfy, but never satiate; while they sanctify the soul, and strengthen it to resist temptation, and to mortify every fleshly lust. PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS. V. 14-29. They have the most comfort in worldly things, (though seldom the largest share of them,) who expect least from them, and decidedly prefer wisdom and grace, and who devote the best of all which they have to the Lord: for his largest promises, general and particular, shall surely be performed to those But alas! what are worldly wealth and prosperity? They can only procure luxuries, embellishments, sad curiosities, which add nothing to the real enjoyment of life: abundance creates satiety, and what is had in plenty is nothing who trust and serve Him. Verses 24-27. 19:5-14. 4:26-34.) These particulars were recorded, to show the fithfulness of God, to the promises made to David and to Solomon, whose reign typified the kingdom of the Messiah,in its peace and prosperity, and in the submission and willing services of princes and natone-But Solomon was doubtless culpable in several respects, and lis mind was gradually corrupted from its simplicity to excessive ury and ostentation, which prepared the way for the awful departre from God recorded in the ensuing ch. (2 Sam. 11:1-5.) SCOTT. (21) Sycamore.] A large evergreen tree, very common in Arabia, Palestine, and Egypt, especially in the low lands. Its wood is very durable, as the mummy chests of it, 3000 yrs. old, prove. Its fruit is like a fig, and eaten by the poor, and its leaves like the mulberry. Heace its name, syke, a fig, in Greek, and morea, a mulberry tree, called Sycamore in the SS.' See Harris. Its fruit springs from the ED. trunk and not the branches, is destitute of seeds, very luscious, and 18 produced abundantly 7 times a year.' SCOTT. (28.) Linen yarn.] 'Miqveh: a word hard to be understood, if it be not a corruption. Vulg. and Sept. " from Coa or Tekoa." Some, as Bochart, (and most probably,) understand tribute: others the string so transl. droves. Jarchi makes it a collection of horses, or a "stud." by which the head of one horse was tied to the tail of the other, and Houbigant would read merchubah, chariots, but no versions nor mss. acknowledge this reading.' Dr. A. CLARKE. Many commentators make it the name of a place. The Heb. reminds us of the 'Kufa ; ' note, v. 22, 25. NOTES. ED. CHAP. XI. V. 1-8. Probably, Solomon's declension was gradual; he was perhaps elated with spiritual pride, as well as induced by his prosperity to indulge in luxury and ostentation: or, perhaps, he deemed it unnecessary for one of his wisdom and ability, and of his rank and authority, to restrict himself by those rules, which were needful or salutary to inferior persons, as if he were secure from those evils [239] which they were intended to prevent!-Thus he proceeded, till perhaps persons were employed to collect from every part of his king |