What Is the Testament of Solomon?
The Testament of Solomon is an ancient Jewish-Christian text, likely composed between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD. Written in the name of King Solomon, it describes his divinely-given authority over demons and his use of that authority to build the Temple in Jerusalem. The book blends Jewish wisdom traditions with early Christian demonology and angelology, and it had a profound influence on later works of angelic and demonic lore.
Though not included in any biblical canon, the Testament of Solomon reflects the ancient understanding — rooted in Scripture (1 Kings 4:29–34; Matthew 12:27) — that Solomon was granted extraordinary wisdom from God, including knowledge of the spirit realm.
Structure & Content
- Solomon’s encounter with a demon — A demon (Ornias) begins harassing a young workman building the Temple. Solomon prays, receives a ring from the archangel Michael that can bind demons, and summons Ornias before him.
- The demon’s confession — Ornias admits his evil nature and reveals the names of the demons and their angelic opponents. Each demon is compelled to confess its name, its activity, and the angel who can thwart it.
- Beelzebul appears — The prince of demons himself is summoned, providing a remarkable portrait of satanic hierarchy and limitation.
- The building of the Temple — Solomon assigns demons to various tasks in the Temple construction, demonstrating God’s sovereignty over the powers of darkness.
- Solomon’s fall — The book concludes with Solomon’s idolatry through love of foreign women, serving as a cautionary tale about the danger of pride and lust.
Why It Matters for Christians Today
- It demonstrates God’s authority over demons — Solomon’s ring is a symbol of God-given dominion, echoed in Christ’s authority to cast out demons (Mark 3:15; Luke 10:17–19).
- It provides background for New Testament demonology — The Testament’s detailed naming of spirits helps us understand the worldview behind passages like Ephesians 6:10–18 and the Gospels’ exorcism narratives.
- It reveals the dangers of spiritual pride — Solomon, despite his immense wisdom and power, falls through idolatry — a sobering reminder that no one is above temptation.
- It fits within the Armor of God theme — For readers of GodWarrior’s Armor of God series, this text offers vivid imagery of the reality of spiritual warfare and the sovereignty of God over all powers.
Key Passages
“I, Solomon, having received the ring from the Lord, answered the demon: ‘Tell me of what evil deeds you are capable.’ And the demon replied: ‘I am called Ornias. I strangle men through envy, and I throw them headlong from high places.'” — Testament of Solomon 1:13–14
“I am Beelzebul, the prince of the demons. I cause destruction through the tyrants, and I cause the demons to be worshipped among men.” — Testament of Solomon 6:2–3
Video Resources
A complete documentary series covering the Testament of Solomon — its origins, demons, angels, and theological significance.