The story unfolds in the magnificent kingdom of King Solomon, known in Arabic tradition as Sulayman, a ruler unlike any other. He was blessed by God with the power to command the winds, govern the Jinn, and understand the language of animals. His reign was defined not only by unmatched authority, but by wisdom, restraint, and divine insight that set him apart from all kings before and after him.
One day, as Solomon reviewed the ranks of his vast army, which included humans, Jinn, and birds, he noticed something troubling. The Hoopoe bird was missing. When the bird finally returned, Solomon demanded an explanation. The Hoopoe spoke of a distant land called Saba, in present day Yemen, where it had discovered a wealthy and advanced kingdom ruled by a powerful and intelligent queen named Balqis. Her people lived in prosperity, yet they worshiped the Sun instead of the One true God. The news concerned Solomon deeply, not as a conqueror seeking land, but as a prophet seeking truth.
Rather than marching an army across deserts, Solomon chose wisdom over force. He wrote a carefully worded letter and ordered the Hoopoe to deliver it by placing it directly upon Queen Balqis’s throne. The message invited her to abandon sun worship and come to Solomon in peace, without pride or hostility. When Balqis read the letter, she did not react with anger or fear. She revealed her political brilliance by consulting her advisors, declaring that war destroys cities and brings suffering, and that such a path should be avoided whenever possible.
To test Solomon’s true nature, Balqis sent a caravan of priceless gifts, overflowing with gold, jewels, and rare treasures. She wished to know whether Solomon was merely another king hungry for wealth, or a man guided by something higher. When the envoys arrived, Solomon refused the gifts without hesitation. He declared that what God had given him was far greater than material riches. Upon hearing this, Balqis understood that she was dealing not with a greedy ruler, but with a prophet king. She decided to travel personally to Jerusalem to meet him face to face.
Before her arrival, Solomon prepared a final test of wisdom and perception. He commanded one of the powerful Jinn to bring Queen Balqis’s throne from Saba to Jerusalem in an instant. Solomon then altered it slightly, disguising its appearance. When Balqis entered the court and saw the throne, she did not rush to claim it. With remarkable intelligence, she replied that it looked like her throne, neither confirming nor denying, demonstrating caution, insight, and humility.
Solomon then invited her into his palace, where the floor was made of crystal so clear that water and fish could be seen beneath it. Mistaking it for a pool, Balqis lifted her garments to keep them dry. Solomon gently explained that it was solid glass. In that moment, Balqis realized how easily appearances can deceive human perception, and how knowledge reveals what the eye alone cannot. Her admiration for Solomon’s wisdom became complete.
The story concludes with mutual respect and harmony between two great rulers. Queen Balqis acknowledged Solomon’s divine wisdom, and their kingdoms became allies. In many Arabic traditions, their bond deepened into marriage, symbolizing the union of justice, wisdom, and rightful power across regions and cultures.
This timeless tale carries enduring meaning. The Hoopoe represents insight, loyalty, and the power of observation. Queen Balqis stands as a symbol of wise leadership, proving that diplomacy and intelligence outweigh brute force. Above all, the story teaches that dialogue, humility, and understanding can prevent war and elevate nations, reminding readers that true authority is rooted in wisdom, not domination.