SOLOMON AND THE QUEEN OF SHEBA

From the First Book of Kings comes this biblically styled but humanly interpreted story of a great king and a pagan girl queen, when she came with her costly caravan from Sheba to visit Solomon with the purpose of aiding his older brother, Adonijah's insurrection. Solomon, who had not wanted the cruel inheritance of the throne, who sent lieutenants to find Adonijah and bring him back, who had, however, dedicated himself to the work of the Lord and won his people, expected the aged Belkis, did not know Makada had killed her, and was captivated by the inquiring, alluring Makada. Her intrusion on his work on the Temple and the introduction of her ceremonials brought down the wrath of the high priest while her capitulation to the power of Solomon's God brought out the truth of the army that Adonijah had raised, and sent Solomon against him, unarmed. The prophecies were fulfilled when Adonijah and Joab were killed and Makada's departure for Sheba returned Solomon to his united and welcoming people. A rhythm and a richness here for the biblical lore set off the conflict of convention and religion and the possible royal romance. A modern view that misses none of the color of the past.