Parables of King Solomon for children. Solomon's parables - wisdom for every day

The parables of King Solomon are written as an appeal from a father teaching his son the wisdom of life, which actions can be considered pleasing to God, and which are bad. Instruction to the son, as the heir, the dearest person for the real father, conquers with his love and care. No one can reproach a parent for moralizing, observing which he native son achieve human respect and God's blessing.

The Parables of Solomon are combined into 31 chapters, which list all conceivable situations in life and give advice on how best to act in each case. But if we consider them as a whole, then the meaning of the instructions is similar to God's 10 commandments, which must be observed by everyone who wants to live in peace and prosperity.

Solomon's advice can be downloaded on the Internet for free, so that you can listen and study them without interference at home. Also, numerous sites offer to study the Bible online, helping to clarify incomprehensible places. Priests interpreters of biblical texts help beginners and those who are simply interested in religion to pass the sacred Book through their hearts and souls so that there are no omissions and understatements.

Solomon in translation means peace-loving. For 40 years of his reign, Solomon did not enter into any serious war, justifying his name. The country under the rule of the wise king reached prosperity and wealth. There were legends about the wisdom of Solomon: all people who could not solve their problems on their own turned to the wise king for help, and everyone agreed with the royal decision

What do the parables of the king of Israel teach?

Solomon's parables are the result of his life experience, which he passes on not only to his heir, but to all people who want to live in peace and harmony with their conscience. The fear of the Lord, which many readers of the parables of Solomon take literally, means respect and reverence for the Divine covenant about how all people on earth should live.

The book of Solomon's parables is still relevant today. With the development of the Internet, you can read the instructions of the ancient king yourself online or download the video to a computer or disk. Many Christian sites make it possible to listen to the wise commandments of Solomon online.

Historically, no confirmation of Solomon's life in reality has been found. All data about the third king of Israel are taken from the Bible. It is believed that King Solomon built the Temple of Jerusalem, of unprecedented beauty and splendor.

Legend of King Solomon

God gave Solomon a ring with which a person gains power over demons. Solomon managed to neutralize all the demons so that they could not interfere with the construction of the Temple, which his father David did not have time to finish. But the main demon, King Asmodeus, did not obey the will of Solomon, who could not understand the origins of the demon's power.

By deceit and cunning, Solomon managed to lure Asmodeus into a trap and take him prisoner. The king of the demon settled in the garden, entangling it with a chain engraved with the name of God. Asmodeus could not escape and carried out all the orders of Solomon, obeying the ring with the divine seal. The demon was forced to give up his witchcraft book and tell the secret of the Shamir worm, which could grind a stone of any size and was used in the construction of the Temple.

But King Solomon was seized with curiosity about what power the demon had and what was its cause. For the discovery of the secret, the ruler of Israel threw off the chain from the demon and removed his ring from his finger. At the same moment, Asmodeus of gigantic proportions became, connecting God's world and the underworld with his wings. He snatched the ring of God from the hands of Solomon and threw it into the sea, and threw the king himself into a distant country. He himself took the form of Solomon and began to rule in his place in Jerusalem.

For a long 3 years Solomon wandered in a foreign country, not renouncing God, accepting a well-deserved punishment for excessive pride, self-confidence, curiosity. But one day he found his ring in the belly of a fish and was able to return to the palace. Asmodeus perished at the same moment, and Solomon began to rule Israel again. But he remembered his misadventures forever and drew conclusions so as not to be mistaken in the future.

Instructing his son and all who read the parables of the wise king, Solomon warns future generations against the intrigues of evil demons. Only in the name of God can one conquer one's passions, finally gaining victory over the intrigues of the Prince of Darkness.
The book of Solomon's proverbs teaches the living to listen to their inner voice before acting rashly, regretting later an unrighteous act.

Solomon's sermon is divided into several themes dealing with the education of young people, mature men, women, and rulers. Parables are similar to poems about the moral character of people living on earth, interpreting how a person who believes in God should act in this or that case.

After the death of the king, numerous stories about the wisdom of Solomon, his resolution of difficult everyday situations, spread among the people. Now it is difficult to distinguish between the fantasy of the people and what was in reality, but the story of the ring is one of the most famous legends about Solomon.

Nowadays, Solomon's advice is set to music, the chant can be watched on video clips, listened to through the player, downloaded to your disk

Legend of Solomon's Ring

The parable of Solomon and his ring is presented on the Internet in several versions that can be read or listened to online. Also, those who wish can download information from the Orthodox website.

The legend tells of a terrible famine in the country ruled by Solomon. Seeing how people die a cruel death, the king began to sell gold and jewelry in order to buy provisions and save his people. Seeing the senselessness of his actions, the king turned to the priest with a request to help him. The priest presented the ring, which in ancient times was considered a symbol of power, a magical sign of infinity and unity. The priest advised the young king to keep this ring with him at all times and in minutes emotional excitement just hold it in your hands.

Arriving home, Solomon examined the inscription on the outside of the ring, made on ancient language, which, however, Solomon understood: "Everything will pass." At that moment the young ruler understood hidden meaning phrases and acquired calmness, which is so necessary when solving matters of national importance. Without a doubt, wisdom prevailed, and Solomon made a decision that was the only possible one in this situation.

Years passed, the king got married and raised children. The ring, as a faithful adviser, he constantly wore with him. But once premature death beloved knocked him out of the rut. And the words that everything will pass caused protest and indignation. With fury, the king threw the ring, but managed to make out inside another inscription that I had not seen before: "this too shall pass."

It was still a long time before King Solomon grew old. On his deathbed, he was no longer consoled by both inscriptions on the ring. Before death, it is time to take stock of the life lived, what he was able to achieve, and what everyone leaves to posterity. To the amazement of the king, another phrase was found on the edge of the ring: "nothing passes."

Each person, having lived a life, leaves a trace in it. But good or bad, it depends on what a person did during his lifetime, what words his descendants will remember.

The story can be viewed on video online on the Internet and downloaded. You can also listen to this and other parables about King Solomon on Christian sites.

According to legend, King Solomon was buried along with his ring. Many treasure hunters wish to find a royal attribute by attributing to the ring magical power and power. But where is the burial place of the wise king, no one knows.

The legend of the real mother

Another life situation that Solomon allegedly judged is the story of a child. The story can be easily downloaded on the Internet for free, read or watch it online.

Two women came to Solomon with a request to find out whose child was left to live. Women in labor were born with a difference of 3 days, but one of them accidentally crushed the baby in a dream. Without thinking twice, the woman changed the baby. When in the morning the second mother decided to feed the child, she saw that the baby was dead and did not belong to her. Disputes over whose child died did not lead to anything. It came to a fight, but none of the women wanted to retreat.

The royal decision horrified one of the women in labor - the king ordered to bring a sword and, cutting the living baby in half, give the halves to both applicants so that no one would be offended.

The true mother fell at the feet of the ruler and begged to give the child to her neighbor, saving the baby's life. The second woman was satisfied with the royal decision and agreed to accept half of the child, knowing that her baby was already dead.
Solomon recognized the right of a real mother to a baby - a mother will do everything so that her child stays to live, even with a strange woman.

You can watch the story online on the Internet via video, or download it to your computer and listen carefully at home. All the stories about Solomon are striking in the justice of the decision, regardless of financial situation, the official rank of petitioners.

Perjury is a great sin and sooner or later becomes obvious. Therefore, it is recommended to tell the truth in any situation, so as not to be considered a liar among the people around you.

Choice Legend

One day a certain man came to King Solomon for advice: what to do if before everyone there is a vital important choice, a person cannot sleep peacefully, as he constantly thinks how to choose the right solution. The fear of making a mistake robs him of peace and sleep. And the more he thinks, the more he doubts the upcoming decision.

Solomon asked a visitor what he would do if he saw a child drowning in a river. He would have rushed to save someone else's baby or would have passed by, justifying his act, that he still would not have time to help the baby.

The visitor, without a shadow of a doubt and without hesitation, replied that in spite of everything, he would immediately rush to save the child from water captivity.

The king asked if the decision to save the child would change if the event happened yesterday or in the future. Having received a negative answer, Solomon said that a person chooses situationally the only correct solution. Therefore, he does not need to suffer whether he is doing the right thing. As long as his actions are consistent with his conscience and God's teachings, a person has only one option for actions - the right and right one. Therefore, there is no choice as such.

However, in attachment to another person, one should act according to one's heart. And the choice will appear only when a person changes - other habits, other priorities.

The visitor went home reassured and no longer suffered from insomnia.
Many people think painfully for a long time about how to act in this or that life situation. However, the correct solution depends on moral values professed by every citizen. And a person acts according to his education and upbringing, on a subconscious level, dividing good and evil.

They say that God once dreamed of Solomon and asked him about his most cherished desire, promising to fulfill it immediately. The Jewish king asked the Lord to give him intelligence and wisdom to rule the country. The wish was fulfilled, and the fame of the wisest ruler spread to different countries.

Later, Solomon learned to understand the language of animals and birds, to speak with animals living on land and in water. This knowledge was reflected in the stories about King Solomon, which were passed from mouth to mouth. Today, these stories can be downloaded on the Internet for free.

About the Serpent and the Peasant

God entrusted the Snake to keep the treasure, commanding to sting on the heel of all who encroach on the treasure. But it so happened that a drought came, the snake was dying of thirst. At this time, a man was passing by with a jug of milk. The snake asked for a drink and promised to tell where the treasure was hidden as a reward.

The peasant gave milk to drink, and she showed the stone under which the treasure was hidden. But when the man wanted to carry away the treasures, the Snake remembered its purpose - to guard the jewels - and wrapped itself around the benefactor's neck.

The peasant was indignant and offered to go to the trial of King Solomon, so that he would determine which of them was right. The snake agreed, but did not get off the neck. So they came to Solomon.

Solomon forced the Serpent to get off the neck of the peasant, because the king must first punish, and only then his subjects solve problems among themselves.

The snake got off his neck, the king, meanwhile, did not stop listening attentively to the story of their meeting and further action. In the words of the Snake about the need to bite everyone who covets the treasure entrusted to her, Solomon said that every person, when meeting with a snake, should break her head. At this saying, the peasant grabbed a stone and crushed the head of an insidious snake.

From this story came the saying: "and the best of the snakes smash the head." The parable teaches to keep the contract and, if you had to violate your obligations, you should not be cunning and push the blame onto another, betraying the innocent to punishment.
You can download for free these and other parables about the wise decision of the king of Israel, which make you believe in the justice of the judge's verdict.

Why Solomon's Parables Are Useful Today

These and other stories emphasize the moral high ground of King Solomon. Before laying out his instructions to future generations on paper, the ruler himself suffered and understood God's commandments why in some situations it is necessary to do so, and in others differently. And therefore the parables of Solomon cannot be regarded as empty moralizing. Only big love, concern for future generations of his heirs could push a person to write such a work.

A person is not immune from errors in judgment and behavior, but it is better to listen to the advice of the older generation than to fill your bumps by testing the veracity of Solomon's teachings.

Numerous sites on the Internet help everyone who wants to develop spiritually to study the Bible. You can listen to the interpretation of learned theologians of individual chapters of Solomon's parables, you can download material for self-study, in a free moment to listen or read the text online.

The book of Solomon's parables is a vivid example of the wise attitude of the ruler - father to his people in the present and future.

King Solomon is a ruler known for his wisdom and ability to make wise and correct decisions in situations that seem intractable. The parables of King Solomon are studied in schools, the monarch's quotes are used as parting words, and he life experience this person is set as an example to those who have gone astray from the righteous path. This ruler was destined by fate to become what he became. After all, his very name Shlomo (Solomon) is translated from Hebrew as “peacemaker” and “perfect”.

Ascension to the throne

Solomon was the youngest, the fourth son and his wife Bathsheba. His two older brothers, Amnon and Avshalom, died while still very young. The eldest was now the third son, whose name was Adonijah. The laws of those times required that it was he who occupied the throne of the king, but David swore to his wife that only Solomon would be his successor, and only he would give him the right to lead the entire Israeli state. His father's decision upset Adonijah, so he enlisted the support of those who considered him a more suitable heir. These persons were the commander of Yoav and the high priest of Eviatar. Those who took the side of Solomon expressed the opinion that Adonijah was not the firstborn offspring of David, and therefore the monarch could judge the children as he saw fit.

Even during the life of David, Solomon and Adonijah began a struggle for the right to rule. Adonijah wanted to win over the people with a truly royal feast. He surrounded himself big amount riders, started a lot of runners and chariots. Adonijah set the day when he would proclaim himself the new ruler of Israel. At the appointed time, he gathered all his close associates and, in honor of the holiday, arranged a stormy celebration in the vicinity of the city. Bathsheba became aware of this event and, turning to the prophet Nathan, she was able to convince her husband to immediately appoint Solomon as head of the country. Near the source of Gihon, in the presence of the priest Zadok, the prophet Nathan and a detachment of bodyguards, the clergyman blessed Solomon for the kingdom. All those who, at least out of the corner of their ears, heard about the perfect rite, recognized the newly-made monarch as their ruler.

Adonius became aware of what had happened. He was afraid of his brother's wrath and fled to the sanctuary. Solomon promised him his pardon in exchange for decent behavior. This is told in the parables of King Solomon, which have survived to this day.

Saint Tatevatsi and his interpretation

Grigor Tatevatsi (XIV-XV centuries) - great philosopher, church leader, teacher and theologian from Armenia. He left an extraordinary mark in the history of literature and science of the Middle Ages. It was he who wrote a work called "The Interpretation of the Proverbs of Solomon." The work was of small volume, therefore, like other categories, it was not awarded the attention of publishers and textual critics. And this is due to the fact that in his manuscripts the philosopher commented on different parts of the Bible, revealing his own economic, ethical, pedagogical and socio-political views.

It can be safely asserted that the parables of King Solomon, the interpretation of which was undertaken by Tatevatsi, are worthy of being published and given a scientific assessment. "The Interpretation of the Parables of Solomon" is a book that belongs to the number of moralizing works written by Tatevatsi. They are addressed to those who study biblical texts in great detail. Commenting on the parables of the king, Grigor in some places also refers to his own views of an ethical nature. He also interprets religious morality in his own way, which the legendary king expresses in parables. Explaining the meaning of the parables, Tetevatsi reinforces each of his remarks with a large number of references and quotations to other books of Holy Scripture.

The most famous ring in the world

The parables of King Solomon number about three thousand writings, which made up 31 sections of the Book of Solomon's parables. Royal tales are parting words to a young lady on how to live correctly in the world.

One of the most famous parables is considered a parable about the ring of King Solomon. She tells how Solomon turned to his court sage with a request to help him cope with his feelings. The son of David was reputed to be a wise man, but his life was restless, he often succumbed to passions that upset him incredibly. To this, the sage replied that he was giving the ruler a ring with an engraved inscription: “It will pass!” He said that as soon as Solomon felt joy or disappointment, he should look at the decoration and read the engraving, which would sober up the ruler. It is in it that he must find salvation from oppressive experiences.

Thanks to the sage, Solomon found peace. But once the king became angry like never before, and even the inscription on the ring did not help him. He took off the jewelry and wanted to throw it away, but on the inside he found the following phrase: “This too shall pass!”

An old song with a modern twist

The parable of King Solomon “Everything will pass” was highly appreciated not only by our ancestors, but also by contemporaries. So, on its basis, the latter composed their own, so to speak, wisdom: one person turned to a psychologist to help him. After all, he lost his job, there is practically no money to exist, and all his friends turned away. The doctor told the man to spread out in all rooms, in all prominent places, a piece of paper with the inscription: "Everything will pass." After some time, the man again came to the doctor and said that everything was fine: he found a great job, reconciled with his wife, found new friends. He asked the doctor if the notes could be thrown away, but the doctor replied: “Why? Let them lie still.”

great wisdom

Israel spoke about great wisdom King Solomon after he judged two women. The parable of King Solomon about the child proved that this ruler is indeed a perspicacious ruler and judge. The essence of the legend is that two mothers appeared before the monarch. Both gave birth to sons on the same day, but one of them had a boy who died. Each claimed that the living child was her baby. Then Solomon ordered to bring a sword and cut the crumb in half, so that one and the other woman would get half of the child. One mother shouted in horror not to do this, but to give the child alive to her opponent. The other, on the contrary, agreed to such a decision, they say, let neither her nor me get it. The king proclaimed that the son should be given to the one who was opposed to cutting the baby, for only a real mother is capable of mercy.

The best years in the history of the country

King Solomon ruled Israel from 965 BC. e. to 928 BC. e. This time is called the era when the monarchy flourished. During the 40 years of his reign, Solomon gained fame as the wisest ruler in the whole world. It was built during the life of the king. The parables of King Solomon prove the true wisdom of the ruler and his greatness. Moreover, they have not lost their relevance to this day.

The wisdom of centuries, relevant to this day ... King Solomon, who lived 900 years BC. e., forever entered history as a legendary ruler and a man of the deepest wisdom. This is the third Jewish king who led his state to highest point development.

He did not ask God for glory or wealth, but only "wisdom and knowledge" to "rule this people ... great." And the Lord gave him a "reasonable heart."

This parable is attributed to King Solomon, whether it is true or not, who knows ...

But, I think many will agree, whoever these words belong to, they are endowed with a certain wisdom.

So, the story itself:

When King Solomon descended from the mountain, after meeting the sunrise, those gathered at the foot said: - You are a source of inspiration for us. Your words change hearts. And your wisdom enlightens the mind. We yearn to listen to you. Tell us who are we? He smiled and said: - You are the light of the world. You are stars. You are the temple of truth. The universe is in each of you. Dive your mind into your heart, question your heart, listen through your love. Blessed are those who know the language God.

- What is a sense of life?

- Life is a journey, a goal and a reward. Life is a dance of love. Your purpose is to flourish. TO BE is a great gift to the world. Your life is the history of the universe. And therefore life is more beautiful than all theories. Treat life like a holiday, because life is valuable in itself. Life is made up of the present. And the meaning of the present is to be in the present.

Why do misfortunes haunt us?

What you sow is what you reap. Unhappiness is your choice. Poverty is a human creation. And bitterness is the fruit of ignorance. By accusing, you lose strength, and by lusting, you dissipate happiness. Wake up, for a beggar is one who is not self-aware. And those who do not find the Kingdom of God inside are homeless. The one who wastes time becomes poor. Don't make life a waste. Don't let the crowd ruin your soul. May wealth not be your curse.

- How to overcome adversity?

- Don't judge yourself. For you are divine. Don't compare or divide. Thank you for everything. Rejoice, for joy works wonders. Love yourself, for everyone loves those who love themselves. Bless the dangers, for the brave find bliss. Pray in joy - and misfortune will bypass you. Pray, but don't bargain with God. And know, praise - best prayer and happiness is the best food for the soul.

- What is the path to happiness?

- Happy are those who love, happy are those who give thanks. Happy are the peaceful. Happy are those who find heaven in themselves. Happy are those who give with joy, and happy are those who receive gifts with joy. Happy seekers. Happy are the awakened ones. Happy are those who listen to the voice of God. Happy are those who fulfill their destiny. Happy are those who know Unity. Happy are those who have tasted the contemplation of God. Happy are those who are in harmony. Happy are the beauties of the world who see through. Happy are those who open themselves to the sun. Happy flowing like rivers. Happy ready to accept happiness. Happy are the wise. Happy are those who realize themselves. Happy are those who love themselves. Happy are those who praise life. Happy are the creators. Happy free. Happy are those who forgive.

What is the secret to abundance?

- Your life is the greatest treasure in the treasury of God. And God is the treasure of the human heart. The wealth within you is inexhaustible, and the abundance around you is limitless. The world is rich enough for everyone to become rich. So the more you give, the more you get. Happiness is at your doorstep. Open to abundance. And turn everything into the gold of life. Blessed are those who find treasures within themselves.

- How to live in the world?

- Drink from every moment of life, for unlived life breeds sadness. And know what is inside, so is outside. The darkness of the world - from the darkness in the heart. Happiness is the sunrise. Contemplation of God is dissolution in the light. Enlightenment is the radiance of a thousand suns. Blessed are those who thirst for light.

- How to find harmony?

- Live simply. Don't harm anyone. Don't envy. Let doubts cleanse, not bring impotence. Dedicate your life to beauty. Create for creativity, not for recognition. Treat others as revelations. Transform the past by forgetting it. Bring something new into the world. Fill your body with love. Become the energy of love, for love spiritualizes everything. Where there is love, there is God.

- How to achieve the perfection of life?

Live in harmony! Be yourself!

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- What is a sense of life?

Life is a journey, a goal and a reward. Life is a dance of love. Your purpose is to flourish. TO BE is a great gift to the world. Your life is the history of the universe. And therefore life is more beautiful than all theories. Treat life like a holiday, because life is valuable in itself. Life is made up of the present. And the meaning of the present is to be in the present.

Why do misfortunes haunt us?

- How to overcome adversity?

Don't judge yourself. For you are divine. Don't compare or divide. Thank you for everything. Rejoice, for joy works wonders. Love yourself, for everyone loves those who love themselves. Bless the dangers, for the brave find bliss. Pray in joy - and misfortune will bypass you. Pray, but don't bargain with God. And know that praise is the best prayer, and happiness is the best food for the soul.

- What is the path to happiness?

Happy are those who love, happy are those who give thanks. Happy are the peaceful. Happy are those who find heaven in themselves. Happy are those who give with joy, and happy are those who receive gifts with joy. Happy seekers. Happy are the awakened ones. Happy are those who listen to the voice of God. Happy are those who fulfill their destiny. Happy are those who know Unity. Happy are those who have tasted the contemplation of God. Happy are those who are in harmony. Happy are the beauties of the world who see through. Happy are those who open themselves to the sun. Happy flowing like rivers. Happy ready to accept happiness. Happy are the wise. Happy are those who realize themselves. Happy are those who love themselves. Happy are those who praise life. Happy are the creators. Happy free. Happy are those who forgive.

What is the secret to abundance?

Your life is the greatest treasure in the treasury of God. And God is the treasure of the human heart. The wealth within you is inexhaustible, and the abundance around you is limitless. The world is rich enough for everyone to become rich. So the more you give, the more you get. Happiness is at your doorstep. Open to abundance. And turn everything into the gold of life. Blessed are those who find treasures within themselves.

- How to live in the world?

Drink from every moment of life, for unlived life breeds sorrow. And know what is inside, so is outside. The darkness of the world - from the darkness in the heart. Happiness is the sunrise. Contemplation of God is dissolution in the light. Enlightenment is the radiance of a thousand suns. Blessed are those who thirst for light.

- How to find harmony?

Live simply. Don't harm anyone. Don't envy. Let doubts cleanse, not bring impotence. Dedicate your life to beauty. Create for creativity, not for recognition. Treat others as revelations. Transform the past by forgetting it. Bring something new into the world. Fill your body with love. Become the energy of love, for love spiritualizes everything. Where there is love, there is God.

- How to achieve the perfection of life?

Live in harmony! Be yourself!

positive psychology 20.08.2017

Dear readers, today on the blog we will turn to a figure favored by Heaven. Let us remember King Solomon, the ruler of Israel, who is remembered and honored, his sayings are reread, although about three thousand years have passed since the writing of these moralizing miniatures.

Interest in the very personality of the legendary king does not fade away, according to legend, he did more than any other leader in the history of the country. Today we will recall some particularly striking episodes of his biography and once again plunge into the world that is called the parables of Solomon.

All sorts of instructions, teachings over the centuries of world history have been compiled. Why, then, have most of them sunk into oblivion or are used only by highly specialized specialists, while the Israeli leader's writings remain close, understandable, and necessary? Let's try to understand this phenomenon together.

Solomon - solo on the strings of history

David's son Solomon took the throne from his father in 965 BC. The new ruler of Israel, like his predecessors, had the opportunity to communicate with the divine forces. But he did not ask Heaven for heroic strength, enviable wealth, indestructible health. All the new vicar of God on Earth needed was wisdom.

And it was given to Solomon. He became the most insightful, most knowledgeable and understanding of all Israeli leaders. He was even given to recognize the language of animals. The tsar-intellectual was at the helm of the state in 926 (according to other sources, in 932) BC.

His merits are considered the unprecedented strengthening of the state in the first decades of his reign, the development of cities, favorable trade relations with neighboring countries, the construction of temples.

The concern of his whole life was the construction of the Jerusalem Temple, which contemporaries and descendants called one of the seven wonders of the world. Unfortunately, the temple was later destroyed by the Babylonian soldiers. The second temple, built later on the same place, could not resist the raids of enemies.

But the parables of King Solomon survived the creator for centuries and millennia. They were recorded in the Bible and still help everyone who yearns for self-knowledge and self-improvement.

Looking for women?

This great reign lasted for about 40 years. But even so gifted statesman avoided the usual everyday problems. Legends say that he, like David, had hundreds of concubines. And some of them come from neighboring and even distant lands, with their own customs, including religious ones, with their own ambitions and intrigues, palace intrigues.

A number of sources testify that it was the discord among the concubines that caused the collapse of such a powerful state. What the numerous armed hordes could not do, the cunning women, thirsting for power and wealth, succeeded.

A special place in the history of this lord of fate was the meeting with the legendary Queen of Sheba. The story is mysterious, it has not yet been fully unraveled: who was this divinely beautiful ruler, and where exactly was her Sabaean kingdom then located.

The “habitat” of the mystery woman is considered to be either Southern Arabia or Northern Ethiopia. And the queen also has several names: in different sources the noble guest of Solomon is called Makeda, Black Minerva, Almak ("goddess of the Moon"), Queen of Sheba ("South"). Muslim sources call her Bilkis.

Versions of dating also differ. According to one Solomon, the news of the amazing ruler was brought by talkative birds. According to other sources, she herself heard about untold riches Israel and the unsurpassed mind of its ruler. Modern interpreters put forward more "practical" reasons for the acquaintance of the two great "managers" of antiquity.

The Queen of Sheba possessed many incense. She knew how to prepare and apply them, subordinating people to her will. They say that with the help of such incense, she could drive the interlocutor into depression, or, on the contrary, she could give cheerfulness, a positive attitude and sexual strength. Perhaps, having arrived in the capital of Israel, which has become for centuries the center of the intersection of many trade routes, the dignitary planned to provide herself Better conditions to promote their goods to the East, where they were in high demand.

Be that as it may, she brought a caravan full of valuable gifts to Israel. And the intention to personally "test" the author of Solomon's parables, to understand whether his knowledge is as extensive and whether his mind is as sharp as it is commonly believed. So the creator of moralistic writings, a recognized philosopher and erudite, the wisest of the mighty of the world of this he himself became a test subject.

For example, we will give only one of the riddles that the wanderer asked the owner of the palace. “It grows in the field, to the joy of the birds, to the death of the fish. Honors the rich, disgrace to the poor. The dead serve as an adornment, for the living - intimidation.

Solomon, without a moment's hesitation, replied that he knew the answer. "It's linen!" he said confidently. And he explained that it grows in the field, birds peck at its grains and enjoy life, and fish often fall into nets that are woven from linen threads. The rich man proudly wears linen garments, while the poor man wears them down to tattered rags, of which he himself is ashamed. A linen shroud becomes an adornment for the dead, which is why the living are so afraid of it, and besides, people are afraid of a linen loop.

In general, the visitor was convinced that the rumors were not exaggerated at all, on the contrary, his wisdom exceeded all expectations. Then, quite predictably, one of the brightest "star" novels of the past millennia happened. Legends claim that upon returning home six months later, the queen was already carrying a child under her breast. Ethiopian legends say that the son of two great rulers, Menelik, became the founder of the dynasty of emperors of Abyssinia, which remained on the throne for three millennia.

There is an even more original, almost detective version of the development of events. The child born of this union is none other than Nebuchadnezzar. The same tyrant who ordered the destruction of the Jerusalem temple and captivated many Jews, taking them to Babylon ...

Wisdom and purity of thoughts are the highest blessing

The parables of Solomon are designed in the form of edifications from a father to his son (chapters 1 - 9), the rest are cautionary tales O different sides life or direct instructions to fellow citizens and future generations.

The topics are very diverse: from everyday stories that are often found in every family and make us do difficult moral choice to thinking about wisdom and foolishness, faith and unbelief, prosperity and failure, righteousness and sin, etc.

Russian theologian A.N. Lopukhin defined the Book of Proverbs of Solomon as "a philosophical and religious treatise in which the author sets forth the results obtained by reason and worldly experience truth in the forms of didactic and poetic speech, capable of producing especially strong impression on listeners."

These sayings continued their life, entered the legends, epics, legends of many peoples of the world in an adapted form. Their influence is also noticeable in the New Testament. They are both deep and simple at the same time, composed in a poetic format, which makes them easier to understand.

Briefly, the instructions of the God-fearing king can be reduced to several moral and philosophical postulates. The interpretation of Solomon's parables has been unchanged for many centuries, since the main moral postulates always remain in force: be decent, pure in heart, strive to follow the advice of older people and the instructions of religious authorities, value time, help those who need your care.

“The beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord; [good understanding in all who are led by him; but reverence for God is the beginning of understanding;] fools only despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7).

The fear of the Lord is not self-abasement. On the contrary, by honoring God, listening to him, a person acquires the calmness of wisdom. He comes to understand that the Lord can help in Hard time, take away trouble. You just need to sincerely believe in it and not be ashamed to ask for protection.

The acquisition of Wisdom is the highest treasure: “Receive my teaching, and not silver; knowledge is better than choice gold; for wisdom is better than pearls, and nothing desirable can compare with it” (Proverbs 8:10-11).

The Legend of the Real Mother: Choice of the Heart

The name Solomon is translated as "peaceful." It really suited this man, who himself tried to live in peace with people, and encouraged others to similar relationships. His 40-year reign was not overshadowed by any major military clash.

Some of the parables of King Solomon became "textbooks". One of the most famous stories This is a story about a real mother.

Solomon was often visited by the most different people to help resolve the dispute, find the culprit in the incident and resolve other conflict situations. So these two women, recently relieved of their burden, decided to take him as an arbitrator.

They both gave birth to babies, but one of the inexperienced mothers accidentally crushed the newborn in her sleep. And she put the deceased baby to a neighbor, taking her baby for herself. She, waking up, did not believe that the dead baby lying next to her was her child. After a noisy showdown, both went to Solomon.

The royal court was shocking: Solomon ordered to bring a sword and cut the baby, distributing half of the child to the disputants. One of the women was ready to make such a tough decision. But the second one threw herself at the ruler's feet and begged with tears to save the baby's life, she was even ready to give him to her rival.

Of course, Solomon recognized her right to a baby: only a true mother can be so loving and selfless.

An agreement is more precious than money: about a snake and a peasant

Solomon's parable of the snake and the peasant develops the theme of faithfulness to the word. Even here, however, there are subtle nuances.

The snake in this story kept a treasure that was entrusted to her by God himself. Anyone who dares to steal the treasure, the snake was obliged to strike with a bite in the heel. But hard times came: heat, drought, the snake could no longer sting, she herself died of thirst.

Seeing a peasant passing by carrying a jug of milk, the exhausted guard asked for a drink. She promised to reveal the secret of the treasure in gratitude. But, having tasted the life-giving moisture, she immediately forgot about her promised generosity. Both wrapped the body of the peasant up to the very neck, intending to continue their security mission.

The offended peasant offered to go to the righteous royal court. So they came together with a snake hanging around the neck of the savior. Solomon first ordered the snake to descend to earth in anticipation of the highest will. Then he listened to a story about the situation.

The snake said that it is obliged to bite anyone who encroaches on the treasure. After these words, Solomon added that people also have their duties. When they meet with a poisonous reptile, they must defend themselves, break her head. The quick-witted peasant quickly grabbed the stone and carried out the advice.

“And crush the head of the best snake” - this proverb is rooted in that ancient legend. If you promised something, you must fulfill it, this story teaches. And if you yourself violated the contract, do not try to shift the responsibility to others.

Everything Passes: The Legend of Solomon's Ring

Psychologists in difficult situations they often quote to their wards the parable of the ring of King Solomon.

This legend tells of a time when it was especially difficult for the king to bear the burden of power. Famine raged in the country, and Solomon did not know how to cope with the disaster. Jewelry sold or exchanged for provisions no longer saved, the scale of the problem was so great.

Then the ruler turned to a famous priest. He gave the king magic ring, which you had to always have with you and keep in your hands when it became especially difficult.

Already at home, Solomon drew attention to the inscription. She was inscribed on outside rings in one of the ancient languages, which were well known to the new owner of the ring. “Everything will pass,” the engraving read.

A deep understanding of the meaning of the laconic parting words descended on the young king. He pulled himself together, found peace of mind and was able to find the right decision difficult government task.

Many years later, he experienced the tragic loss of the woman he loved. In this situation, the phrase that once soothed, on the contrary, caused an angry protest. The king fell into a rage, tore the ring from his hand and threw it away. But I managed to catch it with peripheral vision: on the inner area of the ring were the words: "This too shall pass."

The legend says that on his deathbed, Solomon, summing up his reign, suddenly noticed that there was another saying on the edge of his ring. "Nothing passes" - said the wisdom of the ancestors.

And there is no contradiction with the previous aphorisms here. Indeed, our spiritual wounds heal somewhat over time. But nothing ever passes without a trace, everything leaves an imprint in Destiny. Something teaches us, makes us stronger, and sometimes events, trials of Fortune become overwhelming. There is always a choice. But, having made it, we imprint this algorithm of behavior in the tablets of Fate. And she “gives marks”, which ultimately determine what we have managed, what we have managed to do in this life.

I hope that today's publication will be useful, that you will turn to this invaluable treasury of knowledge, get acquainted with other parables of the greatest ruler of antiquity.

Anhedonia - loss of joy in life