Simul justus et peccator : The literary strategy of Solomon’s narrative and its redactional issues (1 Kings 3–11)

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to reevaluate the elements in 1 Kgs 3–11 that could explain the opposition between an auspicious beginning of Solomon’s reign and his negative end. Does the idea of a progression of evil in 1 Kgs 3–11 really suggest itself? The interweaving of two different narrative threads—one which leads to Solomon’s sin (1 Kgs 11.1–13), another which leads to the post-mortem memory of Solomon’s wisdom (1 Kgs 11.41)—invites us to consider Solomon as simultaneously wise and potentially sinful. The dynamic of the narrative indicates that it is no longer a question of Solomon being the king first and foremost, but of YHWH assuming the royal and judicial function in Israel by granting forgiveness. The complex redactional history of these chapters could provide an explanation for the different theological issues the narrative discloses.