Even if you're not well-versed with Biblical history, you've probably heard of Solomon at some point because he's considered the greatest king Israel has ever had. He's best known for wisdom; he once prayed for it, and God personally gave it to him because he didn't ask for something like money or power. Historically Solomon presided over a period when its neighbors were weak, so he was able to flex Israel's muscles a bit and enrich the country. He built the First Temple. He supposedly wrote Proverbs, Song of Songs, and Ecclesiastes. He had 700 wives and 300 concubines. And outside of the Bible there's a plethora of legends and myths from the three monotheistic religions.

But to be honest I have no idea why he's called wise nor why kings immemorial want to emulate him. He enslaved his people to work on his building projects. He mismanaged his money and had to relinquish cities to pay off his debt. And worst of all, because of the influence of his wives, he started to worship other gods. Seriously, how can you claim someone is the ideal role model when he breaks God's most important commandment? Although he did increase Israel's power, the Bible itself said the kingdom was split and enfeebled after his death as punishment for his perfidy. That isn't the qualities of a good leader. I can't be the first person to notice this, so why have people from all over the world think he's the shit?