What were the followers of King Solomon called?

Answer 1

King Solomon, in The Bible, is not renowned for having any particular followers. He was the King of the Israelites. He did not accede to the throne by conquest or revolution but was chosen by his father, King David, to be the next King of Israel.

He was renowned for his wisdom, and he won the respect of many for his works; in developing Israel's economy; rendering wise judgments, particularly for the poor and disadvantaged; and providing significant support to the temple and the religion of 'his people', the Israelites.

Solomon ruled from 'God's throne'. So, rather than directing the Israelites and others toward himself, a mere mortal and imperfect man, he wisely admonished people to revere God and to obey His commandments. (Ecclesiastes 12:9-14) For this reason, King Solomon's subjects co-operated with him in furthering their national interests, and in the worship of their God (1 Chronicles 29:23, 2 Chronicles 1:1).

His rule over all the Israelite tribes and sub-kingdoms of the area, including the land of the Philistines, brought peace and prosperity to the areas of his dominion. (1 Kings 4:20-25) Even so, the people did not 'follow' Solomon as such, but were happy to give him due honour as King, 'ruling for God'.

Solomon's people, at that time, were therefore followers, not of Solomon himself, but of the House of David. (1 Samuel 20:16, 2 Samuel 3:1) They worshipped God, and followed a 'system', not the monarch.

So, although Solomon was the King of the Israelites, he was not their 'leader'. They were led by their religious beliefs, their religious laws, their priests, patriarchs and their prophets. And when Solomon failed to recognise that common denominator, and also started to oppress his people, he lost their allegiance, and his Sovereignty and kingdom suffered.

Consequently, at the end of his forty year reign, and after his death (1 Kings 11:42,43), all the Israelite tribes except Judah ceased following the House of David. (1 Kings 12:12-20)

Answer 2

The followers of King Solomon were known as the Israelites or the Children of Israel. They were descendants of the twelve tribes of Israel, with their lineage tracing back to King Solomon's father, King David.