is the absence of evidence, evidence of absence?

While studying the periods of David and Solomon in the 9th and 10th centuries, we often have to doubt their existence. Though the bible gives several references to these kings, there is little to no archaeological evidence that confirms their actual existence. So in talking about their accomplishments and the things that stories tell us they have done, we must be completely willing to disregard everything we're being told. With that being said, here are just a few things about "Solomon's Jerusalem."

1 Kings 8:12-21:
Referred to as Solomon's prayer of dedication. Solomon built a temple as a house for god. It was often believed that these temples were the actual physical dwelling of a deity, so it was important to recognize and consecrate this space. If the temple was ever destroyed, it was a sign of god leaving the temple, its people, or just overall being neglectful.

"Wise" King:
Solomon expresses his wiseness through the story of the baby. A woman had stolen a baby from its rightful mother. In those days when there was any sort of controversy, the issue would be taken to the king. So the mother and the woman who had stolen her baby went to King Solomon. The mother pleaded that the baby was hers while the other woman did as well. King Solomon came up with a plan to cut the baby in half, and therefore they could share. Now this doesn't seem very wise at all, right? Well Solomon knew that the real mother would insist that he just let the baby live and would give the baby up. This is exactly what happened, so he was able to decipher the real mother from the imposter and return the baby to its rightful mother.

Writer of Proverbs:
Solomon was said to be the author of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Songs which are all found in the Bible. Though the first two are very insightful, the latter is very crude, almost like biblical porn. He is credited for this last writing because he was said to have over 700 wives and 300 concubines.

Physical Remains:
There are no actual remains that lead to the confirmation of Solomon's existence. For instance, where's the temple he built as a dwelling place for god? The Ophel excavations took place many years ago in which archaeologists explored the Megiddo, a hill consisting of layers of ruins. There is much controversy that remains due to the fact that not many artifacts were uncovered. In addition, Jewish rabbis and Muslims contested these excavations in fear of the area around it being destroyed and the possibility that controversial remains would be discovered. However, stepping stones were uncovered with feet imprinted in them, as well as various iron entry gates that were said to be from the time of Solomon.

The Temple:
Said to be a blend of worship of several gods. There are many parallels between Solomon's temple and that of other temples, like the Ain Dara and Tel Ta'yinat. Specifically in his temple, he had:
Pillars: Yahweh and Asherah were represented by the right pillar, Jachin, meaning "god has established," and the left pillar, Boaz, symbolizing "strength."
Bronze Sea: seen as a cosmic element, representing the purifying nature of water and how it cleanses and bathes people of their sins.

Though many signs may point towards the existence of Solomon, in reality, there is yet to be any hard evidence that he ever really lived. With that, we will have to continue to search for artifacts and just believe (or choose not to) in his existence.

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