Story Summary
Discover the legend of Solomon's Ring, a powerful Jewish folk tale about the phrase 'This Too Shall Pass' and its lesson on humility and the fleeting nature of life.
King Solomon, the wisest man on earth, once sought to humble his advisor, Benaiah, by setting an impossible task. He commanded Benaiah to find a legendary ring that could make a happy man sad and a sad man happy. Solomon believed no such ring existed. For months, Benaiah searched the kingdom in vain. On the eve of the deadline, he wandered into a dusty alley in Jerusalem and met a poor silversmith. When Benaiah explained his quest, the old man took a plain gold band and engraved three Hebrew letters: Gimel, Zayin, and Yud. These stood for 'Gam Zeh Ya’avor.' When Benaiah returned and presented the ring, Solomon read the inscription: 'This too shall pass.' In an instant, the King’s pride vanished. He realized that his great wealth, his kingdom, and even his wisdom were merely temporary, while the simple truth on the ring was eternal.
The Moral
Nothing in life is permanent; we must remain humble during our triumphs and hopeful during our trials.
“Gam zeh ya’avor—this too shall pass.”
Fun Fact
The phrase 'This too shall pass' became famous in American history when Abraham Lincoln used it in a speech to emphasize the temporary nature of the Civil War.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Solomon's Ring?
The story teaches that all circumstances, whether good or bad, are temporary. It encourages humility during times of prosperity and provides hope during times of suffering.
What was written on King Solomon's ring?
The ring was engraved with the Hebrew letters Gimel, Zayin, and Yud, representing the phrase 'Gam Zeh Ya'avor,' which means 'This too shall pass.'
Is the story of Solomon's ring in the Bible?
No, this specific tale is not found in the Hebrew Bible. It is a well-known part of Jewish folklore and oral tradition used to illustrate Solomon's wisdom.
Who is Benaiah in the story?
Benaiah was King Solomon's trusted general and advisor. In this legend, he serves as the protagonist who must solve the king's impossible riddle.
How does the ring make a happy man sad?
The ring reminds a happy man that his current joy and status are fleeting and will eventually end, which serves to curb his pride and ego.
What is the origin of the phrase 'This too shall pass'?
While often associated with Solomon in Jewish folklore, the phrase also appears in Persian Sufi poetry and was later popularized in the West by Abraham Lincoln.
