Solomon

Who is Solomon?

Solomon the exilarch ruled the Diaspora Jewish community from 730 to 761. He was the eldest son of the exilarch Ḥasdai I.

In consequence of a dearth of teachers, he found it necessary to install as head of the Academy of Sura a scholar from Pumbedita, though this was contrary to traditional usage. According to Grätz, this scholar was Mar ben Samuel; according to Weiss, Mar Rab Judah ben Rab Naḥman. The fact that Solomon was childless rendered possible the rise to influence of Anan ben David, the founder of the Karaite sect.