1 Kings 10:2

1 Kings 10:2 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

She arrived in Jerusalem with a very large caravan—with camels bearing spices, gold in great abundance, and precious stones. So she came to Solomon and spoke to him all that was on her mind.

King James Version KJV

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.

American Standard Version ASV

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.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels weighted down with spices, and stores of gold and jewels: and when she came to Solomon she had talk with him of everything in her mind.

Free Bible Version FBV

She brought with her a very large entourage, with camels loaded with spices, large amounts of gold, and precious gemstones. She came to Solomon and asked him about everything she had on her mind.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And she came to Ierusalem with a verie great traine, and camels that bare sweete odours, and golde exceeding much, and precious stones: and shee came to Salomon, and communed with him of all that was in her heart.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

and she cometh to Jerusalem, with a very great company, camels bearing spices, and very much gold, and precious stone, and she cometh unto Solomon, and speaketh unto him all that hath been with her heart.

World English Bible WEB

She came to Jerusalem with a very great caravan, with camels that bore spices, very much gold, and precious stones; and when she had come to Solomon, she talked with him about all that was in her heart.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bore spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she had come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And entering into Jerusalem with a great train, and riches, and camels that carried spices, and an immense quantity of gold, and precious stones, she came to king Solomon, and spoke to him all that she had in her heart.

Translation for Translators T4T

She came with a large group of wealthy/influential people, and she brought camels that were loaded with spices, and valuable gems, and a lot of gold. When she met Solomon, she asked him questions about all the topics/things in which she was interested.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights

God & Jesus

Holy Spirit

Divine Actions

Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Kings 10:2

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Kings 10:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/תָּבֹ֣א יְרוּשָׁלְַ֗מָ/ה בְּ/חַיִל֮ כָּבֵ֣ד מְאֹד֒ גְּ֠מַלִּים נֹשְׂאִ֨ים בְּשָׂמִ֧ים וְ/זָהָ֛ב רַב מְאֹ֖ד וְ/אֶ֣בֶן יְקָרָ֑ה וַ/תָּבֹא֙ אֶל שְׁלֹמֹ֔ה וַ/תְּדַבֵּ֣ר אֵלָ֔י/ו אֵ֛ת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָיָ֖ה עִם לְבָבָֽ/הּ

וַ/תָּבֹ֣א bôwʼ H935 Lebo Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

יְרוּשָׁלְַ֗מָ/ה Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 Jerusalem N-proper | Suff

בְּ/חַיִל֮ chayil H2428 Helech Prep | N-ms

כָּבֵ֣ד kâbêd H3515 heavy Adj

מְאֹד֒ mᵉʼôd H3966 much Adv

גְּ֠מַלִּים gâmâl H1581 camel N-mp

נֹשְׂאִ֨ים nâsâʼ H5375 to lift V-Qal

בְּשָׂמִ֧ים besem H1314 spice N-mp

וְ/זָהָ֛ב zâhâb H2091 gold Conj | N-ms

רַב rab H7227 many Adj

מְאֹ֖ד mᵉʼôd H3966 much Adv

וְ/אֶ֣בֶן ʼeben H68 stone Conj | N-fs

יְקָרָ֑ה yâqâr H3368 precious Adj

וַ/תָּבֹא֙ bôwʼ H935 Lebo Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

שְׁלֹמֹ֔ה Shᵉlômôh H8010 Solomon N-proper

וַ/תְּדַבֵּ֣ר dâbar H1696 to speak Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3fs

אֵלָ֔י/ו ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

אֵ֛ת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

כָּל kôl H3605 all N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

הָיָ֖ה hâyâh H1961 to be V-Qal-Perf-3ms

עִם ʻim H5973 with Prep

לְבָבָֽ/הּ lêbâb H3824 heart N-ms | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 10:2

וַ/תָּבֹ֣א bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

יְרוּשָׁלְַ֗מָ/ה Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 "Jerusalem" N-proper | Suff

Jerusalem is the capital city of Palestine, also known as the city of peace. It was the chief city of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split.

Definition: § Jerusalem = "teaching of peace" the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split

Usage: Occurs in 600 OT verses. KJV: Jerusalem. See also: Joshua 10:1; 2 Kings 22:14; 2 Chronicles 24:6.

בְּ/חַיִל֮ chayil H2428 "Helech" Prep | N-ms

This word represents strength, might, or power, whether physical, financial, or military. In the Bible, it's used to describe the strength of God or the wealth of a nation, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:17-18.

Definition: § Helech = "your army" a place near Arvad and Gammad

Usage: Occurs in 221 OT verses. KJV: able, activity, ([phrase]) army, band of men (soldiers), company, (great) forces, goods, host, might, power, riches, strength, strong, substance, train, ([phrase]) valiant(-ly), valour, virtuous(-ly), war, worthy(-ily). See also: Genesis 34:29; 2 Chronicles 13:3; Psalms 18:33.

כָּבֵ֣ד kâbêd H3515 "heavy" Adj

Something or someone that is heavy or severe is what this word describes, like a heavy heart in Proverbs 12 or a difficult task, as in Matthew 23.

Definition: 1) heavy, great 1a) heavy 1b) massive, abundant, numerous 1c) heavy, dull 1d) hard, difficult, burdensome 1e) very oppressive, numerous, rich

Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: (so) great, grievous, hard(-ened), (too) heavy(-ier), laden, much, slow, sore, thick. See also: Genesis 12:10; Numbers 11:14; Psalms 38:5.

מְאֹד֒ mᵉʼôd H3966 "much" Adv

Meod means 'much' or 'very' and is used to emphasize something. It can mean 'exceedingly' or 'greatly' and is often used to show strong feelings or actions.

Definition: adv 1) exceedingly, much subst 2) might, force, abundance n m 3) muchness, force, abundance, exceedingly 3a) force, might 3b) exceedingly, greatly, very (idioms showing magnitude or degree) 3b1) exceedingly 3b2) up to abundance, to a great degree, exceedingly 3b3) with muchness, muchness

Usage: Occurs in 278 OT verses. KJV: diligently, especially, exceeding(-ly), far, fast, good, great(-ly), [idiom] louder and louder, might(-ily, -y), (so) much, quickly, (so) sore, utterly, very ([phrase] much, sore), well. See also: Genesis 1:31; 1 Samuel 11:6; Psalms 6:4.

גְּ֠מַלִּים gâmâl H1581 "camel" N-mp

A camel, used for riding or carrying loads, is mentioned in the Bible as a valuable animal. In the KJV, it is translated simply as 'camel'.

Definition: 1) camel 1a) as property, as beast of burden, for riding, forbidden for food

Usage: Occurs in 51 OT verses. KJV: camel. See also: Genesis 12:16; Judges 6:5; Isaiah 21:7.

נֹשְׂאִ֨ים nâsâʼ H5375 "to lift" V-Qal

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to lift or raise something, and it's used in many ways, like lifting a burden or raising someone's status. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often talking about God lifting people up. It's about supporting or carrying something or someone.

Definition: : raise/take_up 1) to lift, bear up, carry, take 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lift, lift up 1a2) to bear, carry, support, sustain, endure 1a3) to take, take away, carry off, forgive 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be lifted up, be exalted 1b2) to lift oneself up, rise up 1b3) to be borne, be carried 1b4) to be taken away, be carried off, be swept away 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to lift up, exalt, support, aid, assist 1c2) to desire, long (fig.) 1c3) to carry, bear continuously 1c4) to take, take away 1d) (Hithpael) to lift oneself up, exalt oneself 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to cause one to bear (iniquity) 1e2) to cause to bring, have brought

Usage: Occurs in 609 OT verses. KJV: accept, advance, arise, (able to, (armor), suffer to) bear(-er, up), bring (forth), burn, carry (away), cast, contain, desire, ease, exact, exalt (self), extol, fetch, forgive, furnish, further, give, go on, help, high, hold up, honorable ([phrase] man), lade, lay, lift (self) up, lofty, marry, magnify, [idiom] needs, obtain, pardon, raise (up), receive, regard, respect, set (up), spare, stir up, [phrase] swear, take (away, up), [idiom] utterly, wear, yield. See also: Genesis 4:13; Numbers 4:2; 1 Samuel 14:3.

בְּשָׂמִ֧ים besem H1314 "spice" N-mp

This word describes a pleasant smell, like a sweet perfume or fragrance. It can also refer to the balsam plant or tree, which was known for its sweet odor.

Definition: 1) spice, balsam, balsam tree, perfume 2) (TWOT) sweet, sweet smell, sweet odour

Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: smell, spice, sweet (odour). See also: Exodus 25:6; 2 Chronicles 9:24; Isaiah 3:24.

וְ/זָהָ֛ב zâhâb H2091 "gold" Conj | N-ms

Gold is a valuable metal, also used to describe something yellow or brilliant, like oil or a clear sky. It is often mentioned in the Bible as a precious resource.

Definition: 1) gold 1a) as precious metal 1b) as a measure of weight 1c) of brilliance, splendour (fig.) Aramaic equivalent: de.hav (דְּהַב "gold" H1722)

Usage: Occurs in 336 OT verses. KJV: gold(-en), fair weather. See also: Genesis 2:11; Numbers 7:26; 1 Chronicles 28:17.

רַב rab H7227 "many" Adj

This Hebrew word means a chief or captain, someone in charge. It is used in 2 Samuel 23:19 to describe a great and powerful man. The idea is one of leadership and authority.

Definition: adj 1) much, many, great 1a) much 1b) many 1c) abounding in 1d) more numerous than 1e) abundant, enough 1f) great 1g) strong 1h) greater than adv 1i) much, exceedingly

Usage: Occurs in 443 OT verses. KJV: (in) abound(-undance, -ant, -antly), captain, elder, enough, exceedingly, full, great(-ly, man, one), increase, long (enough, (time)), (do, have) many(-ifold, things, a time), (ship-)master, mighty, more, (too, very) much, multiply(-tude), officer, often(-times), plenteous, populous, prince, process (of time), suffice(-lent). See also: Genesis 6:5; 1 Kings 11:1; Psalms 3:2.

מְאֹ֖ד mᵉʼôd H3966 "much" Adv

Meod means 'much' or 'very' and is used to emphasize something. It can mean 'exceedingly' or 'greatly' and is often used to show strong feelings or actions.

וְ/אֶ֣בֶן ʼeben H68 "stone" Conj | N-fs

In the Bible, this word refers to a stone, which could be a rock, a weight, or even a precious gem. It is used to describe a variety of objects, from building materials to hailstones. The KJV translates it as stone or weight.

Definition: : weight 1) stone (large or small) 1a) common stone (in natural state) 1b) stone, as material 1b1) of tablets 1b2) marble, hewn stones 1c) precious stones, stones of fire 1d) stones containing metal (ore), tool for work or weapon 1e) weight 1f) plummet (stones of destruction) also made of metal 1g) stonelike objects, eg hailstones, stony heart, ice 1h) sacred object, as memorial Samuel set up to mark where God helped Israel to defeat the Philistines 1i) (simile) 1i1) sinking in water, motionlessness 1i2) strength, firmness, solidity 1i3) commonness 1j) (metaph) 1j1) petrified with terror 1j2) perverse, hard heart

Usage: Occurs in 239 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carbuncle, [phrase] mason, [phrase] plummet, (chalk-, hail-, head-, sling-) stone(-ny), (divers) weight(-s). See also: Genesis 2:12; 1 Samuel 6:15; Psalms 91:12.

יְקָרָ֑ה yâqâr H3368 "precious" Adj

This Hebrew word means something or someone is valuable and precious, like costly jewels or highly valued people, as seen in descriptions of honorable women and precious stones in the Bible.

Definition: 1) valuable, prized, weighty, precious, rare, splendid 1a) precious 1a1) costly 1a2) precious, highly valued 1a3) precious stones or jewels 1b) rare 1c) glorious, splendid 1d) weighty, influential

Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: brightness, clear, costly, excellent, fat, honourable women, precious, reputation. See also: 1 Samuel 3:1; Psalms 36:8; Psalms 37:20.

וַ/תָּבֹא֙ bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

שְׁלֹמֹ֔ה Shᵉlômôh H8010 "Solomon" N-proper

Shelomoh, or Solomon, was a king of Judah and successor of his father David, first mentioned in 2 Samuel 5:14 and known for his wisdom.

Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.5.14; son of: David (H1732) and Bathsheba (H1339); brother of: Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727) and Nathan (H5416); half-brother of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N); married to daughter_of_Pharaoh (H6547P) and Naamah (H5279A); father of: Taphath (H2955), Basemath (H1315) and Rehoboam (H7346); also called Jedidiah at 2Sa.12.25; § Solomon = "peace" son of David by Bathsheba and 3rd king of Israel; author of Proverbs and Song of Songs

Usage: Occurs in 263 OT verses. KJV: Solomon. See also: 2 Samuel 5:14; 1 Kings 9:25; 2 Chronicles 7:8.

וַ/תְּדַבֵּ֣ר dâbar H1696 "to speak" Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3fs

To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.

Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight

Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.

אֵלָ֔י/ו ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

אֵ֛ת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

כָּל kôl H3605 "all" N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

הָיָ֖ה hâyâh H1961 "to be" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

עִם ʻim H5973 "with" Prep

This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.

Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as

Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.

לְבָבָֽ/הּ lêbâb H3824 "heart" N-ms | Suff

The heart is the innermost part of a person, including their mind, will, and emotions. In the book of Psalms, David talks about his heart being heavy with sorrow, while in the book of Proverbs, it discusses the importance of guarding one's heart.

Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, soul, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage Aramaic equivalent: le.vav (לְבַב "heart" H3825)

Usage: Occurs in 230 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] bethink themselves, breast, comfortably, courage, ((faint), (tender-) heart(-ed), midst, mind, [idiom] unawares, understanding. See also: Genesis 20:5; 1 Chronicles 17:2; Psalms 4:5.

Study Notes — 1 Kings 10:2

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
1 Kings 10:2 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 10:2
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 10:2
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2
Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 10:2
Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 10:2
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2
Sermons on 1 Kings 10:2

Context — The Queen of Sheba

1Now when the queen of Sheba heard about the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to test him with difficult questions.

2She arrived in Jerusalem with a very large caravan—with camels bearing spices, gold in great abundance, and precious stones. And she came to Solomon and spoke to him all that was on her mind.

3And Solomon answered all her questions; nothing was too difficult for the king to explain. 4When the queen of Sheba saw all the wisdom of Solomon, the palace he had built,

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Acts 25:23	The next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp and entered the auditorium, along with the commanders and leading men of the city. And Festus ordered that Paul be brought in.
2	Psalms 4:4	Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still. Selah
3	Job 4:2	“If one ventures a word with you, will you be wearied? Yet who can keep from speaking?
4	Exodus 25:6	olive oil for the light; spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense;
5	1 Kings 10:10	Then she gave the king 120 talents of gold, a great quantity of spices, and precious stones. Never again was such an abundance of spices brought in as those the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon.
6	2 Kings 20:13	And Hezekiah received the envoys and showed them all that was in his treasure house—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the precious oil, as well as his armory—all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his palace or in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them.
7	2 Kings 5:9	So Naaman came with his horses and chariots and stood at the door of Elisha’s house.
8	Luke 24:15	And as they talked and deliberated, Jesus Himself came up and walked along with them.
9	Genesis 18:33	When the LORD had finished speaking with Abraham, He departed, and Abraham returned home.
10	Isaiah 60:6–9	Caravans of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah, and all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and frankincense and proclaiming the praises of the LORD. All the flocks of Kedar will be gathered to you; the rams of Nebaioth will serve you and go up on My altar with acceptance; I will adorn My glorious house. Who are these who fly like clouds, like doves to their shelters? Surely the islands will wait for Me, with the ships of Tarshish in the lead, to bring your children from afar, with their silver and gold, to the honor of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for He has glorified you.

1 Kings 10:2 Summary

The queen of Sheba visited Solomon with a large caravan of camels carrying valuable spices, gold, and precious stones. She came to ask him questions and learn from his wisdom, which was a gift from God. This shows that she was humble and eager to learn, and we can follow her example by seeking wisdom and guidance from God's Word and other trusted sources (Proverbs 1:7, Psalm 138:8). By doing so, we can deepen our understanding of God's love and plans for us, and use the gifts and talents He has given us to serve and bless others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the queen of Sheba's motivation for visiting Solomon?

The queen of Sheba heard about the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the Lord, and she came to test him with difficult questions, as seen in 1 Kings 10:1. This shows her desire to understand and learn from Solomon's wisdom, which was a gift from God.

What gifts did the queen of Sheba bring to Solomon?

The queen of Sheba brought a very large caravan with camels bearing spices, gold in great abundance, and precious stones, as mentioned in 1 Kings 10:2. This display of wealth and generosity reflects the richness and prosperity of her kingdom.

How did the queen of Sheba interact with Solomon?

The queen of Sheba spoke to Solomon all that was on her mind, as stated in 1 Kings 10:2. This openness and honesty in their conversation allowed for a deep and meaningful exchange of ideas and wisdom, similar to the way God desires us to come to Him with our thoughts and questions, as seen in Psalm 138:8.

What can we learn from the queen of Sheba's approach to seeking wisdom?

The queen of Sheba's willingness to travel a great distance and ask difficult questions demonstrates her humility and eagerness to learn, as seen in 1 Kings 10:1-2. We can apply this same attitude to our own pursuit of wisdom, seeking guidance from God's Word and wise mentors, as encouraged in Proverbs 1:7.

Reflection Questions

What are some questions or concerns that I have been wanting to discuss with God, and how can I approach Him with the same openness and honesty as the queen of Sheba?
In what ways can I demonstrate my own desire for wisdom and understanding, just as the queen of Sheba did by traveling to meet with Solomon?
How can I apply the wisdom and knowledge that I gain from God's Word and other sources to my everyday life, just as the queen of Sheba likely did after her conversation with Solomon?
What gifts or talents has God given me, and how can I use them to bless and serve others, just as the queen of Sheba used her wealth and resources to honor Solomon?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 10:2

And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train,.... With many of her courtiers and principal men, as well as with a large retinue of servants: with camels that bare spices; her country abounded

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 10:2

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2

i.e. Of all the doubts and difficulties wherewith her mind was perplexed.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2

1 Kings 10:2 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.Ver. 2. That bare spices, and very much gold and precious stones.] These were the commodities of her country; with all which, together with the pleasures of her court, she freely parted, for the love of divine learning. Yea, she could have been content to change her throne for Solomon’ s footstool. Josephus telleth us, that besides what is here mentioned, she gave Solomon the root of precious balsam, which the wicked queen of Egypt, Cleopatra, afterwards took away.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2

(2) Spices.—The “spices” of Arabia were famous in all ages. Sheba is mentioned in Ezekiel 27:22 as trafficking with Tyre “in chief of all spices, and precious stones, and gold.” The spices of “the incensebearing sands” of Arabia are constantly dwelt upon both in Greek and Roman literature. Frankincense especially was imported from Arabia into Palestine (see Isaiah 60:6; Jeremiah 6:20), although now it comes chiefly from India. Myrrh also was in ancient times drawn chiefly from Arabia. Cassia is a product of Arabia and India. Of all spices, the frankincense for sacrifice and the myrrh for embalming the dead would be most in request.Gold, and precious stones.—These may have been native products of Sheba, or have been brought from the farther East. Gold is not now known to exist in Arabia, nor any precious stones except the onyx and the emerald. But in ancient times it was commonly believed to produce both gold and precious stones largely.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2

Verse 2. She came to Jerusalem with - spices, c.] Those who contend that she was queen of the Sabaeans, a people of Arabia Felix, towards the southern extremity of the Red Sea, find several proofs of their opinion: 1. That the Sabaeans abounded in riches and spices. India mittit ebur, molles sua thura Sabaei "India furnishes ivory, and the effeminate Sabaeans their frankincense." VIRG. Geor. i., ver. 57. And again: - Divisae arboribus patriae: sola India nigrum Fert ebenum solis est thurea virga Sabaeis. Geor. ii., ver. 116. All sorts of trees their several countries know: Black ebon only will in India grow; And odorous frankincense on the Sabaean bough. DRYDEN. ______ Ubi templum illi centumque Sabaeo Thure calent arae. Where to her fame a hundred altars rise, And pour Sabaean odours to the skies. PLINY (Hist. Nat. lib. xii., c. 17) observes, Non alia ligni genera in usu sunt quam odorata; cibosque Sabaei coquunt thuris ligno; alii myrrhae. "The Sabaeans use odorous wood only, and even use the incense tree and myrrh to cook their victuals." 2. All ancient authors speak, not only of their odoriferous woods, but of their rich gold and silver mines, and of their precious stones. See Pliny, Hist. Nat. lib. xxxvii., c. 6, &c. 3. It is also well known that the Sabaeans had queens for their sovereigns, and not kings. So Claudian, in Eutrop. lib. i. _____ Medis levibusque Sabaeis Imperat hic sexus, reginarumque sub armis Barbariae pars magna jacet. By this is meant, says Mr. Bruce, the country between the tropic and mountains of Abyssinia, the country of shepherds, from berber, a shepherd. And he contends that these Sabaeans were a distinct people from the Ethiopians and the Arabs, and that SABA was a distinct state.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 10:2

2. spices] For which Arabia has always been famous.

Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 10:2

See 1 Kings 10:10 note.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 10:2

2. With a very great train — Such as corresponded with her position and power. Spices… gold… precious stones — The products of her land.

Sermons on 1 Kings 10:2

	Sermon	Description
	Communion With God--No. 1 by Charles Finney	Charles Finney emphasizes the profound nature of communion with God, explaining that it involves a deep, personal relationship with the Holy Spirit, characterized by mutual consult
	Paul Speaks Before Agrippa by Robin McKeown	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having one's eyes opened to the truth of the gospel. He quotes a poem by William Blaine that highlights the consequences o
	Homily 52 on the Acts of the Apostles by St. John Chrysostom	John Chrysostom preaches about Paul's defense before Agrippa, highlighting how Paul is proclaimed as a conqueror despite the accusations brought against him. Paul boldly speaks abo
	A Great Nothing by Thomas Brooks	Thomas Brooks emphasizes that worldly honor and glory are ultimately meaningless, describing them as mere illusions and shadows that lead one away from true fulfillment. He illustr
	(A Marriage Blessed by God) 1. Build Your Home With Wisdom by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of building godly marriages and homes by focusing on the fear of the Lord, wisdom, and self-control. It highlights the need to prioritize reve
	(John - Part 39): The Relationship Between the Shepherd and the Sheep by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the role of a shepherd in taking care of his flock. He compares a mother's responsibility for her children to a shepherd's responsibility fo
	Great Truths From Ephesians - Part 3 by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of unity in the church, using the analogy of a well-coordinated piano player. He highlights the areas in which believers are u