Temple footprint

Was there a real King Solomon or is he a legendary figure of Israelite imagination?

Defending our faith Chris Sinkinson

As evidence of his existence we should be able to point to monumental architecture. One possible example are the six-chambered city gates associated with his reign, some of which have been revealed by archaeology (1 Kings 9.15). But is there any material evidence for the temple from the time of Solomon? Some would say no. They would use this lack of visible evidence to undermine what the Bible claims for Israel’s golden age under his united monarchy. However, there is important evidence for the first temple that has been visible, though ignored, all along!