"So tell me, Jewish king, what is your last wish on this earth?"

The African ruler made sure that everyone far and near heard the incredible news. He, in all his glory and might, had single-handedly captured the great, wondrous and wise Shlomo Hamelech, and would be executing him in just three days’ time. Why? For the great sin of showing up at his grand palace without invitation! The king was overjoyed at the many people who came to watch the execution. He wore his finest clothing and made sure the crowd could get a clear view of the proceedings. Never in his life had he experienced such honor and admiration. He was not going to let this golden opportunity go to waste. If he had his way, the entire world would hear the news of the capture and killing of the wisest man who ever lived!

Shlomo Hamelech was paraded in heavy chains before the wild crowd in the courtyard. The king looked on with a satisfied smile; the queen, Shlomo Hamelech’s wife, stood on the podium watching the proceedings in a state of shock.

The king raised his hand and the crowd quieted down.

“Now, my loyal followers, you see how wise and powerful I am. I have captured and imprisoned one of the mightiest rulers in the world. Supposedly, he is extraordinarily wise, but look at him now and ask yourselves if that is actually true. Could the wisest man on earth not find a way out of this?” The African ruler laughed. “Now, you shall also see how kind and fair I am. Although this Jewish ruler had the nerve to invade my palace, with no invitation or warning, I will still grant him a last wish as I grant all political prisoners. So tell me, Jewish king, what is your last wish on this earth? You will be killed in just a few moments, so what last dish do you want to taste? Which aged wine do you want your palate to enjoy before your eyes grow dim and lifeless? Speak now, or else we will execute you without further delay!”