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In this final unit depicting the positive qualities and characteristics of Solomon, the editor recounts all three of those mentioned previously—wisdom, building projects, religion—but in reverse order. Religiously, Yahweh appears to Solomon a second time and voices his general approval (9:1-9). Included are a reiteration of the promise to bless Solomon further if he lives up to David’s example (9:4-5), as well as the tragic consequences if he does not (9:6-9).
With respect to building activities, 9:10-26 describes various projects, labor forces, and trade agreements. The extent of Solomon’s control is depicted not only in the number of towns that he either built or rebuilt, but also in both the international flavor of his laborers (9:20-21) as well as the geographical parameters of his business enterprise (9:26-28). Solomon is credited with controlling the entire region from Ezion Geber on the northern shore of the Red Sea to the Euphrates (1Ki 4:21).
Finally, Solomon’s wisdom is once again verified with the testimony of the Queen of Sheba (10:1-13). Hearing of Solomon’s wisdom in her homeland in southern Arabia, the queen came to find out for herself. Left virtually breathless by all she sees and hears, she affirms Solomon’s wisdom and achievements and offers praise to the God of Israel.
At this point the editor nearly runs out of words to describe his subject. In summing up his appraisal of Solomon (10:14-29), he concludes that he was without equal in the entire world. People from every land sought his counsel, and with them came priceless gifts (10:23-25). Solomon, in short, was incomparable.