Σολομών

Solomon

Definition

Σολομών (Solomon) refers exclusively to Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, who became the third king of Israel. In the New Testament, he is primarily presented in two distinct senses: as a historical king and as a proverbial figure of wisdom and splendor. As a historical figure, he appears in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:6-7) and is referenced in connection with the temple's 'Solomon's Colonnade' (John 10:23, Acts 3:11). As a figure of proverbial comparison, his wisdom is contrasted with Jesus's greater wisdom (Matthew 12:42, Luke 11:31), and his glorious attire is contrasted with God's provision for the lilies of the field (Matthew 6:29, Luke 12:27).

Biblical Usage

The name is used 10 times across the Gospels, Acts, and John. In the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Luke), it is used in comparative teachings by Jesus to highlight his own superior authority and God's greater provision. In John and Acts, it is used topographically to identify a specific location in the temple complex ('Solomon's Colonnade'). The pattern shows a shift from a historical person in genealogies to a symbolic benchmark for wisdom and splendor in Jesus's teachings.

Etymology

The Greek Σολομών is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name שְׁלֹמֹה (Shelomoh), derived from the root שָׁלוֹם (shalom), meaning 'peace.' The name thus means 'peaceable' or 'his peace.' The Greek form was adopted without semantic change, preserving the identity of the Israelite king.

Semantic Range

Solomon is a significant theological figure in the New Testament, serving as a typological contrast to Jesus Christ. His legendary wisdom and glory become a foil to demonstrate the surpassing wisdom and kingdom of Jesus (Matthew 12:42). He also represents the pinnacle of the Davidic covenant and temple building, with Jesus presented as the greater Son of David and the true temple (John 2:19-21). Understanding this contrast enriches readings of Jesus's claims to authority.

For first-century Jewish and Greco-Roman audiences, Solomon was a legendary figure renowned for wisdom, wealth, and building the first temple. Referencing him invoked a standard of ultimate earthly wisdom and splendor. The mention of 'Solomon's Colonnade' (a known portico in the temple) would immediately orient a reader to a specific, public gathering place in Jerusalem.

Δαυίδ (dauid, G1138) — Solomon's father and predecessor, the king with whom God established the covenant. σοφία (sophia, G4678) — The abstract noun for 'wisdom,' of which Solomon was the prime biblical exemplar.

Word Details

Scripture References