In the Orient it is a custom not only to desire gifts but to ask for them. The Amarna Letters contain many items regarding the exchange of gifts from one royal house to another, and there are many requests for gifts such as ivory, ebony, chariots, horses, and gold. Solomon not only received but also gave. The queen of Sheba returned with more than she had contributed, for in addition to her material gifts she returned home with that which is of infinite worth—a knowledge of the true God.