Relying on Solomon

In advocating the use of corporal punishment, a letter writer makes reference to Solomon, who he alleges "was smarter than members of the National Coalition to Abolish Corporal Punishment." But should we rely on Solomon's "wisdom" as a standard for good behavior?

Using his God-given wisdom, Solomon extended the power and prestige that Israel had attained under King David. This success was achieved by scrupulously ignoring the Ten Commandments. Without hesitation he broke six out of 10, and probably a seventh.

Upon assuming the throne he secured his authority by killing Adonijah, Joab and Shimei, whom he perceived to be threats to his power, I Kings 2:24-46.

Solomon's crowning achievement was the monument he built to himself - euphemistically called a temple to the Lord. Stealing made it possible. He stole the labor of 30,000 slaves and excessively taxed his subjects, I Kings 5:13. Possibly he had the slaves work upon the Sabbath.

Solomon coveted the wealth of other nations. To establish ties with desirable lands, he engaged in adulterous relationships with their women. Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines, I Kings 11:3. To curry the favor of certain wives he made graven images to the gods Che'mosh and Mo'lech, I Kings 11:7, 8. At the urging of his wives, Solomon "turned away his heart after other gods," in violation of, "Thou shalt have no other gods before me," I Kings 11:4.

David N. Miles

Orange Beach