Queens in the Bible
Quick Summary
Queens in the Bible appear in both noble and notorious forms, spanning from the Hebrew Bible to the New Testament era. These women held influence in courtly, political, and spiritual matters. Some—like Esther—saved their people. Others—like Jezebel—became symbols of corruption. This post explores the known queens mentioned in the biblical text, what we know about them, and how their stories intersect with the broader theological arc of Scripture.
Introduction
When we think of royalty in Scripture, kings like David or Solomon often come to mind. But what about the queens? Some ruled, some reigned beside kings, and others operated in the shadows or stepped into moments of history with surprising courage. This list includes both titled queens and queen mothers—women whose power shaped kingdoms and whose stories continue to speak today.
Queen Esther: The Courageous Intercessor
Esther is arguably the most famous queen in the Bible. Her story, told in the Book of Esther, is one of bravery, timing, and divine providence. Chosen as queen of Persia, Esther used her influence to save the Jewish people from annihilation (Esther 4:14–16).
Though initially hesitant, Esther accepted her calling with the iconic line, "If I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:16). Her story is celebrated annually in the Jewish festival of Purim.
Queen of Sheba: The Seeker of Wisdom
The Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon to test his wisdom with hard questions (1 Kings 10:1–13; 2 Chronicles 9:1–12). She came bearing spices, gold, and precious stones. Her encounter with Solomon demonstrated respect between foreign powers and Israel, and it affirmed Solomon’s God-given wisdom.
Jesus referenced her visit in Matthew 12:42, calling her a sign of those who earnestly seek the truth.
Jezebel: The Infamous Queen
Jezebel was the wife of King Ahab of Israel and is one of the most notorious figures in Scripture (1 Kings 16:31). A worshiper of Baal, Jezebel promoted idolatry and persecuted God’s prophets, including Elijah (1 Kings 18–19).
She met a violent death, fulfilling Elijah’s prophecy (2 Kings 9:30–37). Her name has become synonymous with manipulation, false religion, and rebellion against God.
Athaliah: The Queen Who Usurped the Throne
Athaliah, daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, is the only woman in the Bible to have ruled as queen over Judah (2 Kings 11:1–3; 2 Chronicles 22:10–12). After her son’s death, she seized the throne and killed the royal family to secure her power—except one infant, Joash, who was hidden.
Eventually, Athaliah was overthrown by the priest Jehoiada, and Joash was crowned king. Her story highlights the dangers of unchecked power.
Maacah: Queen Mother and Political Power Broker
Maacah, the mother of King Asa, is noted in 1 Kings 15:13 and 2 Chronicles 15:16. Though not a reigning queen, she held the title of queen mother—a significant position in the royal court.
Asa removed her from her position because she had made an abominable image for Asherah. Her story shows that even honored matriarchs could be held accountable in matters of idolatry.
Queen Tahpenes: The Egyptian Connection
Queen Tahpenes appears briefly in 1 Kings 11:19–20. She was part of Egypt’s royal household and gave her sister in marriage to Hadad the Edomite. Her presence in the narrative reminds us of the political alliances formed through marriage and diplomacy.
Herodias: Queen in the New Testament Shadows
While not officially titled a queen, Herodias—the wife of Herod Antipas—is a powerful New Testament figure. Her manipulation led to the execution of John the Baptist (Mark 6:17–28). Like Jezebel, her legacy is one of intrigue and violence.
Herodias’ story is tied to political ambition and a desire to silence prophetic voices, showing how power can be used to protect personal agendas.
Salome: A Royal Dancer
Salome, the daughter of Herodias, is sometimes included in discussions of queenship due to her royal connections. Her dance pleased Herod Antipas and led to the beheading of John the Baptist. Though unnamed in the Gospels, Josephus identifies her as Salome. Her story is a cautionary tale of manipulation, spectacle, and rash oaths.
Queen Candace: Ethiopian Royalty in Acts
In Acts 8:27, an Ethiopian eunuch serves in the court of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. While Candace is a title (like Pharaoh), it represents a long line of ruling women in Nubia (modern Sudan). The eunuch’s conversion to Christianity hints at the gospel’s expansion beyond Israel’s borders.
This royal household’s mention in Acts underlines how the early church reached into high places—even into African royalty.
Conclusion
The queens of the Bible represent a wide spectrum of influence—righteous and corrupt, courageous and cunning. Some, like Esther and the Queen of Sheba, modeled faith and wisdom. Others, like Jezebel and Herodias, embodied opposition to God’s ways.
These stories remind us that leadership and influence are morally weighty. Whether titled queen, mother of the king, or woman of courtly influence, their legacy still invites reflection on faith, justice, and power.
