The Queen of Sheba is one of history's most enduring legendary figures — a wealthy, wise ruler mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, the Quran (as Bilqis), and Ethiopian tradition, famous for traveling to test King Solomon's wisdom with difficult riddles.
She returned home laden with gifts, leaving behind a legacy that spans three major religious traditions.
The Original Biblical and Quranic Accounts
In the Hebrew Bible (1 Kings 10), she hears of Solomon's wisdom and wealth, travels to Jerusalem with a large caravan of spices, gold, and precious stones, tests him with hard questions, and is astounded by his wisdom and his kingdom's splendor.
The Quran (Surah An-Naml) tells a related but distinct version, naming her Bilqis, describing her throne being brought to Solomon's court, and her eventual recognition of his message.
Where Was Sheba, and the Ethiopian Legend
Historians generally place the kingdom of Sheba (Saba) in what is today Yemen, possibly extending across the Red Sea into the Horn of Africa.
Ethiopian tradition, recorded in the 14th-century Kebra Nagast, goes further, claiming Solomon and the Queen (called Makeda) had a son, Menelik I, who founded Ethiopia's royal dynasty — a legend that shaped the country's claimed monarchy for centuries.
Sources
- Wikipedia — overview of the Queen of Sheba legend
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — historical and religious background
- Quran Surah An-Naml commentary overviews — the Quranic account of Bilqis
FAQ
Was the Queen of Sheba a real historical figure?
There's no definitive archaeological proof of a specific individual, but the ancient kingdom of Saba in South Arabia was real and prosperous, likely the historical basis for the legend.
What is she called in Islamic tradition?
Bilqis, described in the Quran as a wise ruler who eventually accepts Solomon's message after witnessing signs of his God-given wisdom.
What is the Kebra Nagast?
A 14th-century Ethiopian text that expands the Solomon-Sheba story, claiming their son Menelik I founded Ethiopia's Solomonic royal dynasty.
About the Author
We reference Wikipedia and Encyclopaedia Britannica and overviews of Quranic commentary to explain the background and current understanding of this topic.
Loved This Article?
Share it on WhatsApp → Share it on WhatsApp
Get more guides in your inbox — Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly surprising stories from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and beyond.