Which king is associated with the building of the first Temple in Jerusalem?

The king associated with the building of the first Temple in Jerusalem is Solomon. He was the son of David and is known for his wisdom and wealth, which enabled him to undertake this significant architectural project. According to the biblical narrative found in 1 Kings 6, Solomon oversaw the construction of the Temple, which was intended to be a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and a center for worship for the Israelites. This Temple became a central symbol of the Jewish faith and identity.

Solomon's reign is often viewed as a pinnacle period in Israel's history, marked by prosperity and peace, which facilitated such a monumental undertaking. David, while he expressed the desire to build a Temple, was instructed by God that his son Solomon would be the one to accomplish it, as noted in 2 Samuel 7. The other figures mentioned, Saul and Rehoboam, do not have any direct association with the Temple's construction. Saul was the first king of Israel, but his reign was more characterized by struggles for unity and conflict with the Philistines. Rehoboam, Solomon's son, reigned after Solomon and is often remembered more for the division of the kingdom rather than any significant construction work like that of the Temple.