Solomon’s Kingdom
Carousel of images for this Bible Exhibit
The Baptism of Jesus
Jesus’ baptism is depicted in the 19th-century painting. John the Baptist is wearing traditional robes made of camel hair, pouring water over Jesus, who stands before him. The dove from heaven has descended on Jesus, representing the Holy Spirit's presence.
The Spirit Descending on Jesus
This painting from 1895 shows John the Baptist pouring water over Jesus, whose head is illuminated, representing his divine nature. The Holy Spirit, represented by the dove, is descending on Jesus.
The Baptism of Christ
This Renaissance painting from 1591 imagines the scene at the Jordan River where John the Baptizer is pouring water over Jesus as the dove descends from God the Father, pictured in the clouds.
The Baptism of Christ
This Baroque period painting from 1622-1623 imagines the scene of John pouring water over Jesus while the Spirit descends in the form of a dove.
The Baptism of Christ
This 19th-century painting depicts God’s light shining down on Jesus as he rises up out of the water.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan
The baptism site known as “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” ruins on the eastern side of the Jordan River across from Jericho. This location has been preserved as the place where John the Baptist baptized Jesus.
The Baptism Site of Jesus
This is a side view of Jesus’ baptism site, known as “Bethany Beyond the Jordan,” on the eastern side of the Jordan River, across from Jericho.
The Modern Jordan River
This picture is of the modern Jordan River near the traditional baptismal site. In Jesus' day, the river would have been significantly wider with a greater water flow.
A Monument Marking Jesus’ Baptism
A cross marking the area of Jesus' baptism site overlooking the Jordan River.
St. John The Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
This is one of several churches or chapels rebuilt in this area, marking Jesus’ baptism.
Listen to this Bible Exhibit
Solomon succeeded his father, David, as the third king of Israel. He was David’s tenth son and the second son from Bathsheba. Unlike the humble upbringing of King Saul and King David, Solomon was born in the palace in Jerusalem and grew up among men of power. He was both well-educated and knew nothing about poverty or hunger. He continued to expand the kingdom and generate enormous wealth and achievement for himself, marking his 40-year reign from 971–931 BC.
Before King David’s death, Adonijah, his fourth and oldest living son, attempted to crown himself as the next king of Israel 1 Kings 1:5-27. When the prophet Nathan informed King David, he interceded and appointed Solomon as the next king of Israel to fulfill a promise to Bathsheba 1 Kings 1:28-52.
King Solomon loved the Lord and sought to begin his rule with an enormous sacrifice to God at Gibeon 1 Kings 3:3-15. There, the Lord appeared to Solomon, offering him whatever he wanted. Rather than ask God for riches or power, King Solomon asked God for wisdom and received wisdom, wealth, and fame. God’s wisdom allowed Solomon to author the biblical books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon.
Following David’s lead, King Solomon made detailed preparations to build the Temple for God 1 Kings 5:1-18. Not only did Solomon build a spectacular Temple, but he also built a magnificent palace for himself 1 Kings 7:1-12. After bringing the Ark of the Lord into the Temple, Solomon prayed a prayer of dedication, and God renewed his covenant with the king 1 Kings 8:22-65. God would establish his royal throne over Israel forever if he obeyed God’s commands and decrees 1 Kings 9:1-9.
Unfortunately, with all his wisdom, Solomon chose not to obey the Lord’s commands and decrees. He took 700 wives and 300 concubines from foreign lands, ultimately leading him astray 1 Kings 11:1-13. He began to worship pagan gods, leading to his downfall and, finally, the division of the kingdom.
