Sheba and the Babylonians

The word “spices” is used in only two contexts in 1-2 Kings, first when Sheba visits Solomon bearing spices, as well as all sorts of other treasures (1 Kings 10:2, 10, 25), and second when Hezekiah receives a visit from the Babylonians (2 Kings 20:13).

Though the scenes are similar, there is a significant reversal involved.  Solomon receives spices, gold, and jewels; he is the recipient of honor and treasure from the Gentiles.  Hezekiah shows off his spices and treasures to the Babylonians, and the Lord threatens that soon the Babylonians would plunder those very treasures, and receive tribute from a conquered Israel.

Those two brief references to spices tell the whole story of the Davidic dynasty.