Solomon: King of Israel

Solomon, also known as Jedidiah, was the son of King David and Bathsheba, and the third king of Israel. He is known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the First Temple in Jerusalem.

Life and Reign

Solomon became king after the death of his father, David, around 970 BCE. He ruled over the United Kingdom of Israel for approximately 40 years. His reign is often described as a time of peace and prosperity.

Wisdom

One of the most well-known stories about Solomon is his display of wisdom in the judgment of the two women who claimed to be the mother of the same baby. His reputation for wisdom attracted visitors from far and wide, including the Queen of Sheba.

Building Projects

Solomon is credited with overseeing the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem, a significant and enduring symbol of Israelite religion and culture. He also built a magnificent palace for himself, as well as other infrastructure projects throughout his kingdom.

Legacy

After Solomon's death, his kingdom was divided into the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern Kingdom of Judah. Despite his achievements, his later years were marked by a turn away from his devotion to God, which ultimately led to the split in the kingdom.

Study Guide

What were the major accomplishments of Solomon's reign?
How did Solomon demonstrate his wisdom as king?
What was the significance of the First Temple in Jerusalem?
What factors contributed to the division of Solomon's kingdom after his death?
What lessons can be learned from Solomon's life and reign?

Studying the life and reign of Solomon provides valuable insights into ancient Israelite history, leadership, and the enduring impact of his legacy.

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Ancient Israel

The resources above cover the following skills:

National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)

TIME, CONTINUITY, AND CHANGE

SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAMS SHOULD INCLUDE EXPERIENCES THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PAST AND ITS LEGACY.

KNOWLEDGE - Learners will understand:

Key historical periods and patterns of change within and across cultures (e.g., the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, the development of technology, the rise of modern nation-states, and the establishment and breakdown of colonial systems).

National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)

Historical Thinking Standards

Historical Comprehension

Reconstruct the literal meaning of a historical passage.

World History Content Standards

Era 2: Early Civilizations and the Emergence of Pastoral Peoples, 4000-1000 BCE

The major characteristics of civilization and how civilizations emerged in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus valley.

The student understands how Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus valley became centers of dense population, urbanization, and cultural innovation in the fourth and third millennia BCE.

The student understands how commercial and cultural interactions contributed to change in the Tigris-Euphrates, Indus, and Nile regions.

Major trends in Eurasia and Africa from 4000-1000 BCE.

The student understands major trends in Eurasia and Africa from 4000 to 1000 BCE.

Era 3: Classical Traditions, Major Religions, and Giant Empires, 1000 BCE-300 CE

Innovation and change from 1000-600 BCE horses, ships, iron, and monotheistic faith.

The student understands the emergence of Judaism and the historical significance of the Hebrew kingdoms.