Did Pharaoh Shishak Plunder King Solomon’s Temple?

Ellen Lloyd – AncientPages.com – Many Biblical events have been confirmed by scholars, but there are still accounts in the Holy Book that remain shrouded in mystery. One such case concerns the possible connection between Pharaoh Shishak and King Solomon’s temple.

According to the Bible, Israel was very wealthy during the reign of King Solomon. At the same time, a much weaker and poorer Egypt was still struggling in their Third Intermediate Period, (1069–747 B.C.)

After the death of Pharaoh Ramesses XI (reign 1107–1078/77 B.C) Egypt declined and lost much of its glory. Smendes I, the first King of the 21st Dynasty ruled from the city of Tanis, but he had difficulties maintaining power in the city of Thebes, whose priests were becoming increasingly influential.

Sphinx of king Shishak. In the background artistic impression of King Solomon’s temple. 

The Bible tells that knowledge of King Solomon’s wealth spread throughout the world. This gives rise to the question whether ancient Egyptians were interested in Solomon’s treasures.

It has been suggested that Pharaoh Shishak plundered King Solomon’s temple, but what evidence is there to support such claims? While investigating this story, we encounter obstacles and unconfirmed events.

Jeroboam, the first King of Israel fled to Egypt after King Solomon tried to kill him following prophecies by Yahweh. Jeroboam remained in Egypt where Shishak ruled until Solomon’s death. According to Biblical scholars and Jewish experts, Israel was in possession of thousands of tons of gold and silver. Needless to say that such treasures must have been very appealing to any Egyptian ruler, and Shishak wouldn’t have second thoughts to bring this wealth to his country, but did he have such an opportunity?

See also:

Mysterious Doorways In King Solomon’s Temple Leading To The Inner Shrine

King Solomon’s Magical Shamir Could Cut Through Any Stone – Proof Of Advanced Ancient Technology?

Mystery Of King Solomon’s Mines: An Unsolved Ancient Enigma

After Solomon’s death, Jeroboam left Egypt and returned to Israel and asked the new king Rehoboam to reduce taxes, but his wish was not granted. Jeroboam traveled north and rebuilt and fortified Shechem as the capital of the northern kingdom. Four years later, in support of his ally Jeroboam, Pharaoh Shishak led an army of 60,000 horsemen and 1,200 chariots invading Judah.

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