In the Image of Solomon

XII
In the Image of Solomon

GAZA WAS OVERWHELMED when Ibna Hakim arrived, for they were certain this was King Solomon on a royal visit from Jerusalem. Thousands filled the streets.
"Hail, the royal father lives," they cried and bowed down and brought him huge amounts of food and clothing.
The whispers became a crescendo: "This is King Solomon."
Ibna Hakim was bewildered by all the attention.
"The king's in Jerusalem, building his palaces," said some onlookers while others commented, "No, this is really Solomon the king."

A contingent of Gaza's armed officers left on horseback to Jerusalem to discover the truth.
They were welcomed by Adoniram at the Fountain Gate.
"Why have you come?" asked the long-time cabinet minister.
"Well, my lord," said the captain of the armed officers, "someone has arrived in Gaza that looks like the king. We wanted to know if he's in Jerusalem or did he go to Gaza?"
Adoniram smiled.
"Come with me."
Arriving at the Palace, they were welcomed by King Solomon.

Bowing down, they spoke in unison, "Hail, may the royal father live. Our country is disturbed because a merchant has come there who resembles you in form and appearance, without the smallest alteration or variation."
"Where does he want to go?" asked Solomon.
"We haven't asked him," said the captain of the small contingent. "But his people told us they came from Ethiopia and that they were going to King Solomon in Jerusalem."

"Who are these men?" asked a small boy, tugging on the king's robe.
"They've seen your older brother, Rehoboam."
"My older brother, father?" the seven-year old asked, with a quizzical look.
Solomon knew at that moment, knew the man they talked about, was his first-born, who arrived in Gaza.
His heart skipped a beat as he thought of the night he had spent with Makeda. He would never forget her.