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The Characterization of Solomon in 1 Kings 1–11, 2 Chronicles 1–9, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs

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The Characterization of Solomon in 1 Kings 1–11, 2 Chronicles 1–9, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs ISRAEL’S PARADOXICAL KING: THE CHARACTERIZATION OF SOLOMON IN 1 KINGS 1–11, 2 CHRONICLES 1–9, PROVERBS, ECCLESIASTES, AND SONG OF SONGS Lucas Glen Wisley Hughes Hall This dissertation is submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy to the University of Cambridge March 2018 - 2 - ABSTRACT This thesis explores the question of how the figure of Solomon is characterized in the Hebrew Bible. This question arises from the observation of divergent depictions of Solomon in the differ- ent books. In 1 Kings 1–11, Solomon is depicted in an ambivalent manner where his wisdom can be used positively for the benefit of all Israel and negatively through focusing on the royal court to the neglect of Israel at large. In contrast, Solomon is presented as a model king of cultic fidelity in 2 Chronicles 1–9 in spite of his failures in 1 Kings 1–11. In Proverbs, Solomon is remembered as the paragon of wisdom in Israel but is also presented in Ecclesiastes as a pessimistic king describ- ing the limitations of his wisdom. Furthermore, Solomon is used as the picture of an ideal lover in the Song of Songs, but it is his romantic exploits that lead to him becoming an idolater turning away from YHWH. In light of these observations, the purpose of this thesis is to examine the char- acterization of Solomon in 1 Kings 1–11, 2 Chronicles 1–9, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs. In order to examine this, a communicative theory of interpretation that benefits from a the- ory of characterization from narrative-criticism will be utilized. This hermeneutical tool will help establish the integrity of individual books as acts of communication and demonstrate how charac- terization is a literary technique utilized by authors to depict a character to be imagined by readers. The finding of this thesis is that Solomon’s characterization is well beyond a single attribute as a wise king or even a two-fold attribute as wise king and temple builder. Instead, he is a paradoxi- cal and ambiguous figure that integrates positive and negative features emerging both from the in- dividual accounts and from the relation of these accounts to one another. The accounts associated with describing Solomon’s reign or those books that have a poetic association share significant themes, but these themes are reframed and re-interpreted as a part of an enduring legacy. By re- evaluating the depiction of Solomon in individual parts or wholes of books, as well as considering the unique contributions of the individual accounts in relation to one another, this thesis demon- strates that the figure of Solomon generates ever fresh elaborations. - 3 - DECLARATION This dissertation is the result of my own work and includes nothing which is the outcome of work done in collaboration. It is not substantially the same as any that I have submitted, or, is being con- currently submitted for a degree or diploma or other qualification at the University of Cambridge or any other University or similar institution. I further state that no substantial part of my disserta- tion has already been submitted, or, is being concurrently submitted for any such degree, diploma or other qualification at the University of Cambridge or any other University or similar institution. STATEMENT OF LENGTH The thesis (including footnotes and references, but excluding prefatory material and bibliography) does not exceed the prescribed length of 80,000 words set by the Faculty of Divinity of the Univer- sity of Cambridge. Signed: Date: - 4 - ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Writing a PhD thesis is a solitary act, and it requires the support of a number of people. Now that I am at the end of this process, it is a great joy to reflect on the people who have supported and en- couraged me during the last few years. Their support is a sign of God’s grace to me and to my fami- ly. It is unfortunate these acknowledgements cannot truly convey my deepest thanks in a way that each of them deserves. I cannot thank enough my supervisor, Dr Katharine Dell. She has guided this project from its beginning to its end. She has routinely inspired me toward greater excellence in research and writ- ing. In addition to this thesis, she has cared for my family and me holistically. Her encouragement helped me persevere through some challenging years in Cambridge and was instrumental in com- pleting this thesis. I am also grateful to Dr Philip Johnston’s supervision during two terms of my re- search. His supervision helped refine my understanding of the books of 1–2 Kings and 1–2 Chron- icles. I have also been blessed with several other academic friends and colleagues whose friendships and interactions helped improve this project. Above all, my thanks especially goes to Dr Heath Thomas who read through the entire thesis and provided me with valuable feedback. He has been a mentor and inspiration for many years. It is an honour to call him my friend. As well, Dr Andrew Kelley, Dr J.T. Turner, Dr Joshua Coutts, Dr David Reimer, Dr Matthew Emerson, Dr Craig Bartholomew, Dr Bruce Ashford, William Ross, Peter Myers, Dr Peter Gurry, Dr Brittany Melton, and Dr Christopher Fresch have all offered crucial encouragement along the way. Further, the bulk of the research for this project was conducted at Tyndale House in Cambridge and for the many friendships that were formed during my years there. During my family’s time in Cambridge, we formed incredible friendships that will stay with us for a lifetime. Our church, St. Andrew the Great has been an integral part of my family’s life. Rev Nathan Buttery and Rev Alasdair Paine were always quick to provide any encouragement that was needed. The Hughes Hall Boat Club introduced me to the great sport of rowing and many friend- - 5 - ships were formed in the early mornings on the Cam. In addition, many other friends have been constant sources of joy: Christopher and Carolyn Ash, Dr Jason Olstoorn, Dr Duncan McNicoll (two of the best housemates!), Jon and Jackie Scafide, Nic and Claire Widdows, Drew and Brittany Melton, Simon and Rachel Wadsley, Will and Kelli Ross, Chris and Laura Fresch, Andrew and Stephanie Kelley, J.T. and Bethany Turner, Richard and Tess Wallace, Peter and Katy Myers, Peter and Kris Gurry, Nic Ross, Michael Nicolson, and Ben Shires. Our families back in the States have done so much to support me in the last few years. My par- ents, George and Linda Wisley, taught me to love and revere the Scriptures from as far back as I can remember. My sisters, Kristen Wisley, Melody Tucker, and Lindsay Lee, have been a great en- couragement and have provided much needed humour through late-night group texts. My grand- parents, Glen and June Henry, have also supported my family in whatever way we have needed. As well, Aubree’s family, Candy and Steve Bridger, Howard Scott, and Brandie Scott-Hill, have always shown great care for our family during these years. Most of all, I am grateful for the love of my family, Aubree, Magdalene, and Luther. I cannot sing the praises of my wife, Aubree, enough. Her love, support, and above all her perseverance dur- ing this time is above what I have deserved. Not only has she financially supported us, but she has read every word of this thesis and made sure that thousands upon thousands did not make it in. Her selfless love is truly a demonstration of her love of the Lord Jesus. I can only hope to recipro- cate the love she has demonstrated to me. Our dog, Luther, has always made sure that I was getting enough exercise and showed me the simple joys in life, like chasing birds along the River Cam. I am also so grateful for our daughter, Magdalene, who arrived just two months prior to the comple- tion of this thesis. She has certainly made life more complicated, but she has also increased my joy beyond what I could have ever imagined. There are so many other people who deserve my thanks. You know who you are and that you were integral to the submission of this thesis. – S. D. G. - 6 - CONTENTS Abstract ....................................................................................................................................................3 Declaration..............................................................................................................................................4 Statement of Length..............................................................................................................................4 Acknowledgments .................................................................................................................................5 Contents...................................................................................................................................................7 Abbreviations .......................................................................................................................................15 1. Introduction and Literature Review................................................................................................19 1. Introduction...............................................................................................................................................19 2. Literature Review .....................................................................................................................................22 1. Early Jewish Interpretation of Solomon.........................................................................................23 2. Historical and Archaeological Support and Decline of Solomon’s Reign .............................25 3. A Solomonic
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