Love and power often clashed within palace walls, shaping history in ways you wouldn’t expect. Some kings had many wives and faced tangled relationships that influenced their kingdoms. Others devoted themselves to a single wife and left a legacy of loyalty. Their stories show the human side of royalty, where choices of the heart mattered as much as the crown. Let’s first look at kings who embraced multiple marriages and the lives they built around them.
1. King Solomon Of Israel
King Solomon of Israel is biblically recorded as having 700 wives and 300 concubines. These unions weren’t solely for desire, they served political ends, strengthening alliances with foreign powers. However, his marriages to foreign wives and princesses created deep religious tensions.
2. Emperor Moulay Ismail of Morocco
Marked by calculated marriages to unify tribes, Moulay Ismail’s rule spanned over five decades. With four wives, 500 concubines, and reportedly over 800 children, he used his harem as a political tool while enforcing order and building lasting architectural marvels.
3. Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of India
A patron of opulence, he’s credited with popularizing the Patiala peg. Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala kept 10 wives and 350 concubines, and he fathered 88 children, but only 52 survived. Among his consorts, Rajmata Vimal Kaur held a special place in his life.
4. Pharaoh Ramses II Of Egypt
During his 66-year reign, Ramses II married over 200 women and fathered more than 100 children. These unions bolstered his image as both ruler and god. His favorite wife, Nefertari, was immortalized in colossal temples built to celebrate her status.
5. King Mongkut Of Siam
Ruling from 1851 to 1868, King Mongkut had over 30 wives and concubines. Most marriages weren’t for love, as they were diplomatic moves. He ruled from 1851 to 1868 and pushed Siam into the modern age, and even inspired the hit musical The King and I.
6. King Henry VIII Of England
Henry VIII had six wives, three of whom were officially annulled through the Church of England. His strong desire for a male heir led to the English Reformation and the creation of a national church separate from Rome. It had a long-lasting effect on religion and the monarchy.
7. King Sobhuza II Of Swaziland
Reigning for over 60 years, King Sobhuza II of Swaziland had 70 wives and fathered 210 children between 1920 and 1970. At his passing, his royal line had expanded to include more than 1,000 grandchildren, and his dynasty shaped the nation’s leadership and traditions for generations.
Now that we’ve seen kings with many marriages, let’s turn to those who remained loyal to a single queen.
8. King George VI Of England
King George VI married Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and remained devoted throughout their lives. Their partnership endured the trials of World War II and personal hardship, including his early speech challenges. He was the father of Queen Elizabeth II and led with quiet strength.
9. King Louis XVI Of France
Though arranged, King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette’s marriage proved stable through personal and political turmoil. Unfortunately, both were executed during the French Revolution, and their union remains a powerful symbol of the monarchy’s dramatic fall.
10. King Haakon VII Of Norway
When Norway became independent in 1905, Haakon VII stepped up as king, with Princess Maud of Wales by his side. Their marriage wasn’t just royal; it helped boost national pride. He kept things grounded and was known for being humble and fair.
11. King Albert I Of Belgium
King Albert I, married to Elisabeth of Bavaria, guided Belgium through World War I with bravery and moral resolve. His battlefield presence earned him the title “Knight King,” while their admired partnership became a symbol of strength across war-torn Europe.
12. Emperor Hongzhi Of China
During his Ming Dynasty reign from 1487 to 1505, Emperor Hongzhi chose lifelong monogamy with Empress Zhang. Their relationship, built on mutual respect, defied imperial norms. She played a visible role in governance and was widely respected by court officials.
13. Henry VII Of England
His marriage in 1486 to Elizabeth of York brought peace to war-torn England and evolved into an affectionate, lasting personal bond. Henry never remarried after her passing, and their elaborate tombs stand at Westminster Abbey.
14. King Charles I Of England
Charles I and Henrietta Maria stayed committed through civil unrest and religious divides and were married for 23 years. Though their union faced scrutiny, their private letters paint a picture of deep affection and mutual loyalty that endured until Charles’s execution.
I hope you enjoyed a little history of the wives of kings through the ages. It was fun to do some research on this subject. I pray you all be blessed in Yeshua’s name.
I am starting a newsletter to encourage my sisters in Christ. I published my first book called Bible Truth Warrior Daughter in Christ. You gals can find my book on Amazon, iTunes, Barnes and Noble and you can get it on e- book.
Calm Phrases That Shut Down Rude People
If you’ve ever dealt with someone so rude that it caught you off guard, you’ll know how frustrating and harmful it can be. But you don’t have to match someone’s bad attitude to make your point. These phrases are like secret weapons, they’re polite, to the point, and they shut down disrespect fast.
“Let’s keep this respectful”
Nobody likes being talked down to. This phrase is a way of calling it out without getting aggressive. It signals that the tone of the conversation isn’t okay and that you expect better. Saying it with a calm, steady voice lets you take charge without creating more tension. People often rethink their tone when you show them where the line is.
“I’m not comfortable with that”
There’s something incredibly grounding about expressing how you feel in a direct way. You’re not pointing fingers; you’re simply stating your own boundary. That’s what makes this phrase effective. It can be used in so many situations, and it gives you a clear out without needing to explain yourself. Most people don’t push further after hearing this because it’s so neutral but firm.
“Let’s take a step back”
Things can get heated quickly when someone’s being rude, and it’s easy to get pulled into it. Using this phrase lets you pause the moment and create a little breathing room. It puts space between you and the other person’s behavior without needing to argue or defend yourself.
In group situations, it can also help others recognize that something’s off. You’re basically saying, “Hold up,” but in a calm, grown-up way that invites reflection instead of conflict.
“I’d rather not continue this right now”
Sometimes the best thing you can do is walk away. This phrase gives you a polite exit without escalating the situation. It’s a clear signal that you’re not interested in arguing or taking on someone else’s negativity. By removing yourself, you take away their audience. It works especially well when someone’s trying to provoke a reaction.
“That didn’t sit right with me”
It might not seem like much, but this simple sentence packs a punch. It points out that something felt off, without sounding aggressive or accusing. It makes the other person reflect on what they said or did and usually softens the energy immediately. You’re not calling them names you’re calling attention to your reaction.
“I’m not okay with being spoken to like that”
You deserve to be treated with respect, plain and simple. If someone’s tone or words are crossing a line, this phrase spells it out. It leaves no room for guessing. Sometimes people test your boundaries just to see what you’ll tolerate. This is how you show them your limit. Keep your tone calm and confident, and you’ll be surprised how quickly people back down when they realize you’re not afraid to speak up.
“We can revisit this when things cool down”
Disagreements happen, but rudeness shouldn’t be part of the deal. If someone’s getting out of hand, you can press pause with this line. It doesn’t shut the door it just says, “Not like this.” You’re showing maturity and patience without letting them walk all over you.
“That’s not something I’m going to engage with”
Not everything needs a reaction. When someone’s clearly trying to get under your skin, this phrase stops them cold. It tells them you’re not here to entertain drama or disrespect. No yelling, no back-and-forth, just a clear refusal to take the bait. It works particularly well in text or email, too.
“You’re entitled to your opinion, but I disagree.”
Not every rude comment needs a comeback. Sometimes a simple statement like this is enough. It shuts down any attempt to bait you into an argument while keeping the door closed to further disrespect.
You’re making it clear that you won’t be swayed or silenced, but you’re not stooping to their level either. This is a great phrase when someone’s being snide, condescending, or just plain mean in a discussion.
“Please don’t speak to me like that”
It’s direct. It’s clear. And it gets the job done. You’re not asking for permission, you’re stating your boundary. This phrase is especially useful when someone is raising their voice or using a nasty tone. By calmly saying this, you take the spotlight off their anger and put it on your expectation for basic decency.
“I’m going to step away for a minute”
Instead of lashing out, try removing yourself from the situation. This phrase is a calm way to protect your peace without causing more tension. You’re not storming off, you’re just choosing space over conflict. It also gives the other person time to reflect on their behavior, and sometimes that’s all it takes for things to settle.
“Let’s try to stay focused on the issue”
Rude people often veer off-topic to stir up drama or make things personal. Bring things back to center with this line. It reminds everyone what matters and makes it harder for the other person to keep up the behavior without looking petty. You’re not dismissing the person you’re just redirecting the energy to something productive.
“That’s not appropriate”
Sometimes the quickest way to shut down rudeness is to name it. This phrase cuts through the noise without adding any fuel. It works especially well when someone says something offensive or out of line in a group setting. Saying it firmly, without emotion, puts the pressure back on them to rethink their words.
“Let’s not go there”
Some people love to stir the pot, especially when it comes to touchy topics. This phrase gives you a smooth way to shut that down before it starts. You’re not asking for a debate, you’re signaling that you won’t participate. This works really well for rude jokes, passive-aggressive remarks, or loaded questions.
“I think we need a break from this conversation”
When things get tense and unproductive, this phrase steps in like a timeout. It’s a healthy boundary that says, “This isn’t working.” Instead of getting pulled into someone else’s chaos, you’re choosing peace.
It also opens the door for a more respectful discussion later if you even want one. You’re not walking away forever, but you are choosing when and how to engage.
“I hear you, but that was uncalled for”
Rudeness disguised as honesty is still rudeness. This phrase acknowledges the other person’s words without letting them off the hook for being disrespectful. It gives you a chance to keep the conversation going if needed, while still holding your boundary. Sometimes people don’t realize their tone or word choice was hurtful until you name it.
We can continue this when you’re ready to be respectful”
When someone’s being difficult, this line draws a clear line in the sand. You’re open to continuing the conversation but only under the right conditions. This keeps the power in your hands without creating unnecessary tension. It’s especially helpful when someone’s being rude in a discussion that actually matters, like a work issue or a family situation.
EVENTS
Book Signing on September 19th at 3-5pm at the Salkum Library
Book Signing on September 20th at 10am-1pm at the Shelton Library
Book Signing on September 25th at 12:30-2:30pm at the Lacey Library
Book Signing on September 26th at 12:30-3pm at the Centralia Library
Book Signing on September 27th at 2-5pm at the Randle Library
Book Signing October 2nd at Noon-3pm at the Olympia Library
Book Signing October 3rd at 2-5pm at the Elma Library
Book Signing October 7th at 1:30pm-5pm at the Raymond Library
Book Signing October 9th at 11am-2pm at the Chehalis Library
I’m teaching at the Centralia Community College for the Fall quarter. If your interested sign up to the class on the college website. Starting on October 4th at 10-1pm. My other classes are Oct. 11th, Oct. 18th, Oct. 25th, Nov. 1st, Nov. 8th, Nov. 15th, Nov. 22nd and the last class will be on Nov. 29th. These classes will be on How to make Shower Scrubs, and my other class is on How to make Massage Oils of your own.
HOW TO FIND ME
I will let you know when more book signings are going on.
I can be found on Spotify, my podcast (bibletruthwarriorwomen.com) also on Riverside. FM, my Blog called (bibletruthwarriordevotionals.com) My news articles can be found on (carmenhansen@substack.com), Life Coaching site to schedule an appointment with me on (paperbell.me/bible-truth-warrior-women-life- coach). You can find me on (christianfaithpublishing.com), on my Author page to buy my book or read my Press Release.
MY SOCIAL MEDIA SITES
On Facebook, Instagram, Telegram and Linked in.
BIBLE TEACHING CLASSES
Please Check them out. They have helped me get through this process of stepping out and be bold in Christ. I enjoy Women of Faith classes, Proverb 31 Women classes.
LIST OF MY BUSINESSES
Carmen’s Visual Effects store #1 and #2 on my Blog at (bibletruthwarriordevotionals.com). I make all kinds of body products such as body butter, massage oils, body scrubs, lip and cuticle butter with mango butter etc.
There is a way to buy the body products online or call me to buy. Take a look if you’d like. It’s always good to care for yourself.
You can find my Artwork in card form on my Blog called (bibletruthwarriordevotionals.com).
I take photos of nature and animals. I’ve been doing this business for a long time now. I am a birder.
Bible Truth Warrior Devotionals 