Melachim I Perek 11

As Shlomo was considered one of the greatest tzadikim ever to live, there are many fine details and subtleties that need to be understood in this perek through the “eyes of Chazal.” If those of the previous generation were considered like angels, then we would be considered as mortals. But if those of the previous generations are considered like mortals, then we are considered as donkeys (Shabbos 112b.) Whoever says that Shlomo sinned is mistaken (Shabbos 56b.) This is a list of the events as the Navi records them. The Seforim of Navi are open for all who would like to learn this perek in greater depth.

• Shlomo married many women from the surrounding nations from which Hashem had commanded not to marry.

• Shlomo had 700 wives and 300 concubines who “swayed his heart” away from Hashem.

• Shlomo’s heart was not with Hashem the way his father Dovid’s heart was.

• Shlomo assisted in building idols for Ammon and Moav.

• Hashem became angry at Shlomo.

• Hashem told Shlomo that his kingdom would be split because of what he had done. However, as per a promise made to his father, Dovid, the kingship would not be split during his lifetime. The kingship would be split during his son’s lifetime.

• Shlomo would not completely lose the kingship, as one tribe would remain in his dynasty forever.

• Hashem sent Hadad, the first person to “bother/annoy” Shlomo. The Navi does not mention how Hadad antagonized Shlomo.

• Razon was the 2nd person to antagonize Shlomo during his lifetime.

• Yiravam ben Nevat was the 3rd person to antagonize Shlomo.

• Yiravam was a hard worker and a “man of valor.”

• Achiya HaShilani, a Navi of Hashem, met with Yiravam and told Yiravam that he will be the next king of Yisrael.

• Achiya HaShilani ripped his clothing into 12 pieces and told Yiravam to take 10 of them, symbolizing that the throne will be ripped away from Shlomo’s family after Shlomo dies.

• Shlomo wanted to kill Yiravam. Yiravam ran to Egypt until the death of Shlomo.

• Shlomo passed away. Shlomo had ruled over Yisroel for 40 years.

• Shlomo was buried next to his father, Dovid. (Ramad Walli explains: Shlomo was buried next Dovid to indicate that despite Shlomo’s “sins” he was still considered a tzaddik.)