Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom 1Later, Solomon formed an alliance with Pharaoh king of Egypt by marrying his daughter. Solomon brought her to the City of David until he had finished building his palace and the house of the LORD, as well as the wall around Jerusalem. 2The people, however, were still sacrificing on the high places because a house for the Name of the LORD had not yet been built. 3And Solomon loved the LORD and walked in the statutes of his father David, except that he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places. 4Now the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for it was the great high place. Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on the altar there. 5One night at Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, “Ask, and I will give it to you!” 6Solomon replied, “You have shown much loving devotion to Your servant, my father David, because he walked before You in faithfulness, righteousness, and uprightness of heart. And You have maintained this loving devotion by giving him a son to sit on his throne this very day. 7And now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in my father David’s place. But I am only a little child, not knowing how to go out or come in. 8Your servant is here among the people You have chosen, a people too numerous to count or number. 9Therefore give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?” 10Now it pleased the Lorda that Solomon had made this request. 11So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself or death for your enemies—but you have asked for discernment to administer justice— 12behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been another like you, nor will there ever be. 13Moreover, I will give you what you did not request—both riches and honor—so that during all your days no man in any kingdom will be your equal. 14So if you walk in My ways and keep My statutes and commandments, just as your father David did, I will prolong your days.” 15Then Solomon awoke, and indeed it had been a dream. So he returned to Jerusalem, stood before the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. Then he held a feast for all his servants. Solomon Judges Wisely 16At that time two prostitutes came to the king and stood before him. 17One woman said, “Please, my lord, this woman and I live in the same house, and I gave birth while she was in the house. 18On the third day after I gave birth, this woman also had a baby. We were alone, with no one in the house but the two of us. 19During the night this woman’s son died because she rolled over on him. 20So she got up in the middle of the night and took my son from my side while I was asleep. She laid him in her bosom and put her dead son at my bosom. 21The next morning, when I got up to nurse my son, I discovered he was dead. But when I examined him, I realized that he was not the son I had borne.” 22“No,” said the other woman, “the living one is my son and the dead one is your son.” But the first woman insisted, “No, the dead one is yours and the living one is mine.” So they argued before the king. 23Then the king replied, “This woman says, ‘My son is alive and yours is dead,’ but that woman says, ‘No, your son is dead and mine is alive.’” 24The king continued, “Bring me a sword.” So they brought him a sword, 25and the king declared, “Cut the living child in two and give half to one and half to the other.” 26Then the woman whose son was alive spoke to the king because she yearned with compassion for her son. “Please, my lord,” she said, “give her the living baby. Do not kill him!” But the other woman said, “He will be neither mine nor yours. Cut him in two!” 27Then the king gave his ruling: “Give the living baby to the first woman. By no means should you kill him; she is his mother.” 28When all Israel heard of the judgment the king had given, they stood in awe of him, for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer justice. Footnotes: 10 a Hebrew Adonai; also in verse 15 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  1 Kings 3 Summary Solomon's Prayer for WisdomVerses 1–3 – Solomon’s Early Reign and Mixed Priorities Verses 4–5 – The Great Sacrifice and Divine Invitation Verses 6–15 – Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom and God’s Response Verses 16–28 – The Famous Judgment and Public Awe 1 Kings 3 is a significant chapter in the Old Testament, portraying the young king Solomon's deep yearning for wisdom over any worldly possession. The chapter takes us through his dream at Gibeon, his humble prayer to God, and his first test of wisdom. His earnest plea for an understanding heart to govern his people well is met with divine approval and abundant blessings. Historical Setting: Egypt, Israel, and Royal Marriages • Political alliances through marriage were common among ancient Near Eastern kings. By marrying Pharaoh’s daughter, Solomon secures a powerful ally and peaceful borders (cp. 1 Kings 9:16 with Pharaoh’s later gift of Gezer). • Scripture, however, warns against foreign marriages that can lead hearts astray (Deuteronomy 7:3–4). The tension surfaces later when Solomon’s many wives “turn his heart after other gods” (1 Kings 11:4). • No Egyptian king had previously given a royal daughter to a foreign ruler, underscoring Solomon’s rising status. Gibeon: Geography and Archaeology • Located about six miles northwest of Jerusalem, Gibeon was a Levitical city (Joshua 21:17). • Excavations at el-Jib (identified as ancient Gibeon) reveal massive water systems and wine-making facilities from the Iron Age, indicating a prosperous center that fits the biblical picture of a “great high place.” • The Mosaic tabernacle and the bronze altar were stationed at Gibeon after David moved the ark to Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 16:39–40). Thus Solomon’s sacrifices there were not empty ritual but tied to legitimate worship. High Places and Covenant Worship • High places were open-air altars often inherited from Canaanite custom. Before the temple, Israelites sometimes sacrificed there, yet God’s ideal was central worship “in the place the LORD will choose” (Deuteronomy 12:5–6). • Solomon’s worship at Gibeon is accepted because the tabernacle remains there, but the continued use of other high places by the people signals future spiritual drift (see 1 Kings 11:7; 12:31). • The narrative sets up the importance of the coming temple, which will unite worship and curb idolatry. Divine Encounters in Dreams • God often speaks in dreams when He has critical plans for His people—Jacob’s ladder (Genesis 28:12), Joseph’s guidance in Egypt (Matthew 2:13). • In Solomon’s dream the LORD says, “Ask, and I will give it to you” (v. 5). The invitation echoes Jesus’ later words, “Ask, and it will be given to you” (Matthew 7:7), revealing God’s consistent generosity. • The authenticity of the dream is proved by fulfilled promises—Solomon’s wisdom becomes legendary throughout the Near East (1 Kings 4:34). The Gift of Wisdom: Definition and Reach • Wisdom in Scripture is practical skill for living rightly before God and people (Proverbs 9:10). It includes insight, justice, and discernment. • Solomon’s request—“Give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil” (v. 9)—aligns with God’s heart for righteous leadership (Micah 6:8). • God adds wealth and honor without Solomon asking (v. 13), reflecting Ephesians 3:20, “He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” The Two Mothers and One Baby: Justice on Display • The women are prostitutes, outsiders to polite society, yet Solomon listens attentively, showing that God’s justice values every life (Psalm 82:3–4). • The sword command is a test, not cruelty. The true mother reveals her heart; love is willing to sacrifice its own rights to save the child. • The people “feared the king” (v. 28)—meaning they respected him—because they saw that “the wisdom of God was in him to carry out justice.” God’s wisdom produces public confidence. Archaeological Parallels to Solomonic Justice • Ancient Near Eastern law codes (e.g., Code of Hammurabi §142) include cases about disputed babies, but none match Solomon’s brilliant psychological test, underscoring the uniqueness of biblical wisdom. • Wall reliefs and Ostraca from the period show kings acting as supreme judges, confirming the king’s judicial role in Israel (2 Samuel 15:4). Connections to Other Scriptures • James 1:5 invites believers to ask for wisdom, echoing Solomon’s moment at Gibeon. • Proverbs—largely attributed to Solomon—flows out of the gift granted in 1 Kings 3. • Jesus, “greater than Solomon” (Matthew 12:42), embodies perfect wisdom; His judgments penetrate hearts just as Solomon’s sword exposed motives (Hebrews 4:12). • Solomon’s initial humility (“I am but a little child,” v. 7) mirrors Moses’ reluctance (Exodus 3:11) and Jeremiah’s youth (Jeremiah 1:6). God delights in using humble servants. Lessons for Leadership and Life • Seek wisdom first; God can add the rest. • True leadership listens to every voice, even society’s marginalized. • Justice requires both truth and compassion; love often reveals truth. • Early compromises, like foreign marriages and tolerated high places, can grow into later troubles—guard the small gateways to the heart. Foreshadowing and Messianic Hints • Solomon’s throne of justice prefigures the Messiah’s perfect reign (Isaiah 9:7). • The child saved from the sword points to the greater Child born to save the world by bearing the sword Himself (Luke 2:35). Today’s Takeaway God still invites His people, “Ask what I shall give you.” When we request wisdom to serve others and honor Him, He delights to answer, guiding us to live with clear discernment, selfless love, and public integrity—just as He did for Solomon at Gibeon. Connections to Additional Scriptures James 1:5If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. Proverbs 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. Teaching Points Solomon's Humility and GratitudeSolomon begins his reign by acknowledging his youth and inexperience. He expresses gratitude for God's kindness to his father, David, and recognizes the enormity of the task before him. (1 Kings 3:7-8) The Divine Offer God appears to Solomon in a dream, offering him anything he desires. This moment highlights God's willingness to bless those who seek Him. (1 Kings 3:5) Solomon's Request for Wisdom Instead of asking for wealth, long life, or the death of his enemies, Solomon requests an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. (1 Kings 3:9) God's Response Pleased with Solomon's request, God grants him unparalleled wisdom and also bestows upon him riches and honor, promising that no other king will compare to him. (1 Kings 3:10-13) The Test of Wisdom Solomon's wisdom is immediately put to the test with the famous case of the two women claiming to be the mother of a child. His discerning judgment earns him the respect and awe of all Israel. (1 Kings 3:16-28) Practical Applications Seek Wisdom Above All ElseLike Solomon, prioritize wisdom and understanding in your prayers and decisions. Recognize Your Limitations Humbly acknowledge your need for God's guidance in every aspect of life. Trust in God's Provision When we seek God's kingdom first, He provides for our needs beyond our expectations. Discernment in Daily Life Apply God-given wisdom to navigate complex situations and make righteous judgments. People 1. SolomonSolomon is the central figure in 1 Kings 3. He is the son of King David and Bathsheba, and he has recently become the king of Israel. In this chapter, Solomon famously asks God for wisdom to govern the people, which pleases God. The Hebrew root for Solomon is "שְׁלֹמֹה" (Shelomoh), meaning "peaceful." 2. Pharaoh's Daughter She is mentioned as Solomon's wife, whom he brought to the City of David. This marriage is part of Solomon's political alliances. The text does not provide her name, but she is identified by her relation to Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. 3. The LORD (Yahweh) The LORD appears to Solomon in a dream at Gibeon, where Solomon makes his request for wisdom. The Hebrew name used is "יהוה" (YHWH), often rendered as "Yahweh," the covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible. 4. Two Prostitutes These women come to Solomon with a dispute over a living child, each claiming to be the mother. Their case is used to demonstrate Solomon's wisdom. The Hebrew term for prostitute is "זֹנָה" (zonah). 5. The Living Child The child is the subject of the dispute between the two women. Solomon's wise judgment in determining the true mother is a key part of the narrative. 6. The Dead Child The other child involved in the dispute, who tragically died, leading to the conflict between the two women. Places 1. GibeonGibeon is described as the location where Solomon went to offer sacrifices because it was the most significant high place at the time. The text states, "The king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for it was the great high place" (1 Kings 3:4). In the Hebrew text, Gibeon is גִּבְעוֹן (Giv'on), which was an important city in the tribal territory of Benjamin. 2. Jerusalem After his encounter with God at Gibeon, Solomon returns to Jerusalem, where he stands before the Ark of the Covenant and offers burnt offerings and peace offerings. The passage notes, "Then Solomon awoke, and indeed it had been a dream. So he returned to Jerusalem, stood before the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings" (1 Kings 3:15). Jerusalem, יְרוּשָׁלַיִם (Yerushalayim) in Hebrew, is the central city of worship and governance for Israel. Events 1. Solomon's Marriage Alliance with PharaohSolomon forms a marriage alliance with Pharaoh, king of Egypt, by marrying his daughter. He brings her to the City of David until he finishes building his own house, the house of the LORD, and the wall around Jerusalem. This event sets the stage for Solomon's reign and highlights the political alliances of the time. 2. Solomon's Worship at Gibeon Solomon goes to Gibeon to offer sacrifices because the high place there was significant. He offers a thousand burnt offerings on the altar. This act of worship demonstrates Solomon's devotion and the importance of high places in Israelite worship before the temple was built. 3. The LORD Appears to Solomon in a Dream At Gibeon, the LORD appears to Solomon in a dream by night and says, "Ask for whatever you want Me to give you." This divine encounter emphasizes the personal relationship between God and Solomon and sets the stage for Solomon's request for wisdom. 4. Solomon's Request for Wisdom Solomon responds to God by acknowledging the kindness shown to his father David and his own position as king. He humbly asks for "an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil." This request highlights Solomon's humility and desire to govern justly. 5. God's Response to Solomon's Request God is pleased with Solomon's request and grants him a wise and discerning heart, unlike anyone before or after him. Additionally, God promises Solomon riches and honor, and a long life if he walks in obedience. This response underscores the biblical principle of seeking wisdom and God's generous provision. 6. The Judgment of Solomon Solomon's wisdom is soon put to the test with a famous judgment involving two women claiming to be the mother of a living child. Solomon proposes to divide the child in two, revealing the true mother by her compassionate response. This event demonstrates Solomon's God-given wisdom and establishes his reputation as a wise ruler. Topics 1. Solomon's Marriage Alliance with EgyptSolomon forms a political alliance by marrying Pharaoh's daughter, which is a strategic move to strengthen his kingdom. This marriage is significant as it reflects the political and cultural interactions of the time. The Hebrew term "חָתַן" (chathan) indicates a marriage alliance, emphasizing the political nature of this union. 2. Solomon's Worship Practices Solomon is described as offering sacrifices at the high places, which were local worship sites. This practice is noted in 1 Kings 3:3, "Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of his father David, except that he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places." The Hebrew word "בָּמוֹת" (bamot) refers to these high places, which were often associated with Canaanite worship. 3. Solomon's Request for Wisdom In a dream at Gibeon, God appears to Solomon and offers to grant him whatever he desires. Solomon requests wisdom to govern the people, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9, "Give Your servant, therefore, an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil." The Hebrew word "לֵב שֹׁמֵעַ" (lev shomea) translates to "an understanding heart," highlighting Solomon's desire for discernment. 4. God's Response to Solomon's Request God is pleased with Solomon's request and grants him unparalleled wisdom, along with riches and honor. This is detailed in 1 Kings 3:12-13, where God says, "I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been anyone like you, nor will there ever be." The Hebrew "חָכָם וְנָבוֹן" (chakam ve-navon) emphasizes the depth of wisdom and understanding bestowed upon Solomon. 5. The Judgment of Solomon The famous account of Solomon's wise judgment between two women claiming to be the mother of a child is recounted. Solomon's decision to suggest dividing the child reveals his wisdom and ability to discern the truth. In 1 Kings 3:28, it states, "When all Israel heard of the judgment the king had rendered, they stood in awe of the king, because they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer justice." The Hebrew "חָכְמַת אֱלֹהִים" (chokhmat Elohim) signifies the divine wisdom attributed to Solomon. Themes 1. Divine Wisdom and UnderstandingIn 1 Kings 3, Solomon's request for wisdom is a central theme. Solomon asks God for "an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil" (1 Kings 3:9). The Hebrew word for "understanding" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies listening or hearing, indicating a heart that listens to God and His people. 2. God’s Generosity and Favor God's response to Solomon's request highlights His generosity. God is pleased with Solomon's request and grants him not only wisdom but also "riches and honor" (1 Kings 3:13). This theme underscores the idea that God rewards those who seek His wisdom with additional blessings. 3. Righteous Judgment The famous account of the two women and the baby illustrates Solomon's God-given wisdom in making righteous judgments. Solomon's ability to discern the true mother of the child (1 Kings 3:27) demonstrates the practical application of divine wisdom in governance and justice. 4. The Fear of the Lord Solomon's request for wisdom is rooted in his reverence for God. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, as seen in Solomon's acknowledgment of his own limitations and his dependence on God (1 Kings 3:7). This theme is foundational in understanding the source of true wisdom. 5. Covenantal Faithfulness Solomon's prayer reflects a desire to continue the covenantal faithfulness established by his father, David. He acknowledges God's "great loving devotion" (1 Kings 3:6) to David and seeks to walk in the same path of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands. 6. Human Limitations and Dependence on God Solomon's admission of his youth and inexperience (1 Kings 3:7) highlights human limitations and the need for divine assistance. This theme emphasizes the importance of humility and reliance on God for guidance and strength in leadership. 7. The Role of Prayer in Leadership Solomon's interaction with God through prayer sets a precedent for leaders seeking divine guidance. His prayer is a model of humility and prioritization of God's wisdom over personal gain, illustrating the importance of prayer in effective leadership (1 Kings 3:5-9). Answering Tough Questions 1. If God truly appeared to Solomon in a dream (1 Kings 3:5), how do we distinguish this from myth or subjective experience? 5. How does Solomon’s future idolatry align with the claim of receiving divine wisdom in 1 Kings 3:12? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What was Solomon's main request from God in his dream? Why is this significant? 2. How does Solomon's choice reflect his character and readiness to be king? 3. In what ways does God's response to Solomon's request demonstrate His divine character? 4. How did Solomon's dream impact his leadership style? 5. What can we learn from Solomon's request when praying for our own needs or desires? 6. Consider the case of the two women. What does their story teach about love and motherhood? 7. How does Solomon's solution to the problem show his wisdom? 8. What was the reaction of the people when they heard of Solomon's judgement? Why do you think they reacted this way? 9. How can we apply the wisdom Solomon demonstrated in our own decision-making? 10. Why do you think Solomon chose to marry Pharaoh's daughter? What were the potential implications of this decision? 11. If you were in Solomon's shoes, what would you have asked God for? Why? 12. How can we discern between self-interest and the greater good in our own lives, as Solomon did in his dream? 13. How can leaders today apply Solomon's approach to governance in their leadership? 14. How can Solomon's wisdom help you handle disputes or conflicts in your own life? 15. How does Solomon's interaction with God in his dream affect your understanding of prayer and divine communication? 16. How does God's promise of a long life if Solomon obeys His commandments resonate with the New Testament's teachings on obedience? 17. What does this chapter reveal about the nature and power of true wisdom? 18. How does Solomon's wise judgement reflect on the value of justice and fairness in society today? 19. In what ways does Solomon's dream speak to the importance of setting the right priorities in life? 20. Reflecting on the narrative of the two women and the baby, how would you use wisdom to decide in a difficult situation you currently face or might face in the future? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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