Makeda

Makeda is the Ethiopian name for the Queen of Sheba, an ancient kingdom mentioned in both the Old Testament and the Qur’an that was probably located around modern-day Ethiopia or Yemen. Said to be very wealthy, she heard that King Solomon of Israel was very wise so she traveled to Israel with many gifts with the intention of questioning him herself. The Old Testament relates that Makeda was impressed and blessed Solomon’s kingdom; he reciprocated with gifts. Makeda may or may not have had an affair with or even wed King Solomon, but the royal family of Ethiopia does claim a lineage that traces back to both of them.