February 7, 2004, Wednesday of the fifth week in ordinary time.

A reading from the first book of Kings.

The Queen of Sheba, having heard of Solomon's fame, came to test him with subtle questions.

She arrived in Jerusalem with a very numerous retinue, and with camels

bearing spices, a large amount of gold, and precious stones. She came to Solomon and questioned

him on every subject in which she was interested. King Solomon explained everything she asked

about, and there remained nothing hidden from him

that he could not explain to her.

When the Queen of Sheba witnessed Solomon's great wisdom, the palace he had built, the food

at his table, the seating of his ministers, the attendance and garb of his waiters, his banquet service,

and the burnt offerings he offered in the temple of the Lord. She was breathless.

The report I heard in my country about your deeds and your wisdom is true, she told the

king. Though I did not believe the report until I came and saw with my own

eyes, I have discovered that they were not telling me the half. Your wisdom and prosperity

surpassed the report I heard. Blessed are your men, blessed these servants of yours, who stand before you always, and listen to your

wisdom. Blessed be the Lord, your God, whom it has pleased to place you on the throne of Israel.

In his enduring love for Israel, the Lord has made you king to carry out judgment and justice.

Then she gave the king 120 gold talents,

a very large quantity of spices and precious stones.

Never again did anyone bring such an abundance of spices

as the Queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon.

The word of the Lord.

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