And the navy also of Hiram, &c.— Parkhurst thinks, that the אלמגים almugim, thya, or lignumvitae tree, is so called from אל al, not, and גם gem, to fill, because it is of so close a texture, as not to imbibe water, nor be affected by the wet and weather. See Dr. Shaw's Travels, p. 422.
REFLECTIONS.—The spreading fame of Solomon brought to his court a vast resort of strangers. Among the most distinguished of which, we must reckon the queen of Sheba.
1. She came with a vast retinue, and the richest presents, to converse with a person of whom she had heard such wonders, to prove him by hard questions, to gain advice in her difficulties, and especially to inquire concerning the name of the Lord who had bestowed on Solomon such uncommon wisdom. Note; (1.) Wisdom can never be too dearly bought, or too far fetched. (2.) If her solicitude to inquire after God was so commendable, how will it upbraid their neglect, who, when the greater than Solomon is here, to teach them by his word and Spirit, refuse instruction, and will not hear the wisdom of God.
2. Solomon entertained her with the dignity becoming her rank, communed with her of all that she had in her heart, answered every question, and solved all her difficulties to her entire satisfaction. Note; They who have the gift of knowledge, should delight in the communication of it.
3. What she heard and saw quite astonished her. His discourses so deep and clear; his buildings so vast and magnificent; his table so richly and regularly supplied; his servants so exact, orderly, and numerous; his liveries so grand; his cup-bearers so stately; and his ascent by steps to the house of the Lord so nobly contrived, so exquisitely finished; or, as it may be rendered, the burnt-offerings in the house of the Lord, which, as proselyted, she might now be admitted to behold: these were all so astonishing, that she was lost in admiration.
4. When she had recovered from her amazement, she could not withhold expressing her high satisfaction, and how much the event exceeded her expectation. Fame is usually too liberal, but here had been unjust, half had not been told her. She pronounces them happy, who enjoyed the constant opportunity of hearing such a prodigy of wisdom; declares that she could be tempted to wish her lot among his servants, rather than on the throne of Sheba; and concludes with blessing God for his distinguished gifts and greatness, and for his goodness to Israel in giving them such a king. Note; (1.) To enjoy the converse of those who are wise in the things of God is a most valuable mercy. (2.) God, as the author of all our blessings, deserves the praise of all. (3.) When we shall come to the presence of our Solomon, the Prince of Peace, we shall own how much the glory he hath prepared for his people exceeds all that eye hath seen or ear heard, or it hath entered into the heart of man to conceive.
5. They parted with mutual magnificent presents: she gave him gold, and spices, and jewels; and he made her a like return, presenting her besides with every thing curious, which she desired. Note; (1.) Mutual tokens are the pledges of friendship. (2.) Though we have nothing valuable to offer to the Lord Jesus, yet, if we have the willing heart, he will send us away loaded with his good things, and we can ask him nothing that he will not delight to bestow on us.