Solomon (exilarch)

Solomon was the name of multiple exilarchs, leaders of the Jewish community in Babylonia during the Geonic period. Without further specification, "Solomon (exilarch)" usually refers to a specific individual, typically one of the later exilarchs. Identifying a specific Solomon is complicated by the recurrence of the name within the exilarchic lineage, historical gaps in documentation, and conflicting accounts regarding their reigns and relationships.

The exilarch, also known as Resh Galuta (Aramaic for "Head of the Exile"), held considerable political and religious authority over Babylonian Jewry. Their responsibilities included representing the Jewish community to the Persian (and later Islamic) authorities, administering Jewish law, collecting taxes, and maintaining order within the Jewish community.

Distinguishing between different exilarchs named Solomon requires meticulous analysis of fragmentary historical sources, including chronicles, responsa (rabbinic legal opinions), and genealogical records. The lineage of the exilarchs is often debated, and reconstructing precise dates for their tenures is difficult. Therefore, specifying "Solomon (exilarch)" without further contextual details is generally insufficient for accurate historical identification.