In the Old Testament, who is often seen as a contrast to idolatrous practices during Solomon's reign?

The correct answer is that the prophets are often seen as a contrast to idolatrous practices during Solomon's reign. In the Old Testament, prophets played a critical role in calling the people of Israel back to faithfulness to Yahweh, especially during times of moral and spiritual decline.

During Solomon's reign, while he is known for his wisdom and building the Temple, his later years were marked by his participation in idolatrous practices, largely influenced by his foreign wives who brought their gods into Israel. The prophets would rise during this period to confront the people and the monarchy about their unfaithfulness, emphasizing the need for exclusive devotion to the Lord and warning of the consequences of turning to other gods.

The significance of the prophets lies in their role as messengers of God, urging repentance and fidelity to the covenant. They provided a voice of truth and accountability in contrast to the prevailing idolatrous trends observable in society at that time. Their messages often included calls for justice, mercy, and faithfulness, highlighting the incompatibility of idolatry with the worship of Yahweh.