Before Solomon was aware of it, he had wandered far from God. He began to trust less in divine guidance. Little by little he withheld from God unswerving obedience and conformed more closely to the customs of the surrounding nations. Yielding to temptations incident to his honored position, he forgot the Source of his prosperity. Money that should have been held in sacred trust for the worthy poor and for the extension of principles of holy living throughout the world was selfishly absorbed in ambitious projects. SS 28.2
To glorify himself before the world, he sold his honor and integrity. The enormous revenues acquired through commerce were supplemented by heavy taxes. Pride, ambition, and indulgence bore fruit in cruelty and exaction. From the wisest and most merciful of rulers, he degenerated into a tyrant. Once the God-fearing guardian of the people, he became oppressive and despotic. Tax after tax was levied to support the luxurious court. The respect and admiration the people had cherished for their king was changed into abhorrence. SS 28.3