Shebah

Shebah, also spelled Sheba, refers to a location and/or kingdom mentioned in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and the Quran. It is most famously associated with the Queen of Sheba who visits King Solomon, as recounted in the Book of Kings and the Second Book of Chronicles.

The precise geographical location of Sheba is debated among scholars. Possible locations include modern-day Ethiopia, Yemen, or a region encompassing parts of both. Ancient texts often associate Sheba with the Sabeans, a people known for their wealth from trade in frankincense, myrrh, and other valuable goods.

The biblical account portrays the Queen of Sheba as a wealthy and powerful ruler who traveled to Jerusalem to test Solomon's wisdom. Impressed by his understanding and the prosperity of his kingdom, she showered him with gifts. This story has been interpreted in various ways, including as a representation of diplomatic relations, a symbol of the allure of wisdom, and an allegory for the conversion of Gentiles to Judaism.

Beyond the biblical narrative, Sheba appears in other ancient texts and traditions. Islamic sources also mention the Queen of Sheba, referring to her as Bilqis. Archaeological evidence supports the existence of a prosperous kingdom in Southern Arabia that aligns with descriptions of Sheba, further fueling scholarly interest in its history and location. The identity and historical accuracy of the Queen of Sheba continue to be subjects of ongoing historical and theological discussion.