What is the context?
The narrator brings the accounts of wisdom and wealth together: Solomon surpasses the kings of the earth in both. People seek an audience to hear the wisdom God has put in his heart.
The visitors bring gifts year after year—silver, gold, clothing, weapons, spices, horses and mules. Solomon’s renown brings an ongoing flow of people and resources to the court.
Even at this height of fame, the source of his wisdom is expressly named. It is something God has given him.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Wesley understands the broad description of visitors as rulers from the surrounding world. Henry reads Solomon’s greatness in light of God’s promise to give him wisdom and riches.
The account celebrates the reach of Solomon’s reputation while giving God the credit for the wisdom people come to hear. Fame is a response to a gift received; it does not make Solomon its ultimate source.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.