Solomon's fame for wealth and knowledge gained the attention of the Queen of Sheba (a country in modern-day Ethiopia) who traveled to see first-hand if the reports were accurate. She left in astonishment, realizing that she had only grasped a small portion of Solomon's total value and resources.
But what "buying power" did Solomon have? In spite of his wealth, he could not purchase loyalty to God. His material holdings seemed to garner him shaky alliances. Oh, they were good for political and military opportunities, but these alliances - usually formed through marriage - placed Solomon in too close proximity to idolatry. The builder of the great and marvelous Temple fell victim to false idolatry. Because of this, God raised up enemies against him, including one of his servants who led a coup against the wise and wealthy king. King Solomon died, leaving the throne to his son Rehoboam but also leaving him in a terrible political mess.
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