S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Author: The Book of 1 Kings does not specifically name its author. The tradition is that it was written by the Prophet Jeremiah.Date of Writing:The Book of 1 Kings was likely written between 560 an...

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November 15 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jack Gutknecht Supporter Arizona Bible College graduate and Dallas Seminary graduate

I'll only give a summary of the first half of 1 Kings (1 Kings 1-12). I want to do this because I just saw the movie, "Solomon." I believe it is pretty accurate to the Bible. The film "Solomon" (1997) gives a sweeping view of King Solomon’s life, closely following the biblical account from 1 Kings 1-12. It starts with the struggle over David’s succession, showing Adonijah’s failed attempt to seize the throne and Solomon’s anointing, just as described in 1 Kings 1-2. David’s final instructions and death are portrayed faithfully.

One of the key highlights is when Solomon asks God for wisdom, a scene drawn directly from 1 Kings 3, and his famous ruling between the two women over a baby is also depicted, showing the depth of his God-given insight.

The film also focuses on Solomon’s charge to build the Temple, based on 1 Kings 5-6 and 1 Chronicles 28, and shows the dedication ceremony from 1 Kings 8, though with some added cinematic effects like lightning to represent God’s presence, whereas Scripture describes a cloud.

The visit of the Queen of Sheba, found in 1 Kings 10, is included, and the movie adds a fictional romantic subplot between her and Solomon for dramatic effect—something not found in the Bible.

Another strength of the film is how it weaves in lines from the Book of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs, attributing them to Solomon through reflective narration or dialogue. These passages highlight his wisdom and later introspection.

The movie doesn’t shy away from Solomon’s downfall, either. It shows him marrying many foreign women and turning to idolatry, just as 1 Kings 11 describes. God’s judgment and the beginning of the kingdom’s division are portrayed, ending Solomon’s story on a sobering note.

While the film stays mostly faithful to the biblical text, it includes some dramatized scenes and artistic choices for storytelling. Overall, it gives a strong and thoughtful portrayal of Solomon’s life—his wisdom, achievements, and tragic flaws—making it a helpful resource for anyone studying his story or reflecting on his legacy.

2 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report