3 Solomon made a marriage alliance with Pharaoh king of Egypt. He took Pharaoh’s daughter and brought her into the city of David until he had finished building his own house and the house of the Lord and the wall around Jerusalem.
2 The people were sacrificing at the high places, however, because no house had yet been built for the name of the Lord.
3 Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of David his father, only he sacrificed and made offerings at the high places.
4 And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was the great high place. Solomon used to offer a thousand burnt offerings on that altar.
5 At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, “Ask what I shall give you.”
6 And Solomon said, “You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant David my father, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you. And you have kept for him this great and steadfast love and have given him a son to sit on his throne this day.
7 And now, O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in.
8 And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude.
9 Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?”
10 It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this.
11 And God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right,
12 behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you.
13 I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that no other king shall compare with you, all your days.
14 And if you will walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.
15 And Solomon awoke, and behold, it was a dream. Then he came to Jerusalem and stood before the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and offered up burnt offerings and peace offerings, and made a feast for all his servants.
16 Then two prostitutes came to the king and stood before him.
17 And the one woman said, “Oh, my lord, this woman and I live in the same house, and I gave birth to a child while she was in the house.
18 And the second woman said, “No, my son is the living one, and your son is the dead one.” But the first said, “No, your son is the dead one, and my son is the living one.”
19 And this woman’s son died in the night, because she lay on him.
20 Then she arose at midnight and took my son from beside me, while your servant slept, and laid him at her breast, and laid her dead son at my breast.
21 And when I rose in the morning to nurse my child, behold, he was dead. But when I looked at him closely in the morning, behold, he was not the child that I had borne.”
22 But the other woman said, “No, the living child is mine, and the dead child is yours.” The first said, “No, the dead child is yours, and the living child is mine.” So they spoke before the king.
23 Then the king said, “The one says, ‘This is my son that is alive, and your son is dead’; and the other says, ‘No, but your son is dead, and my son is the living one.’”
24 And the king said, “Bring me a sword.” So a sword was brought before the king.
25 And the king said, “Divide the living child in two, and give half to the one and half to the other.”
26 Then the woman whose son was alive said to the king, because her heart yearned for her son, “Oh, my lord, give her the living child, and by no means put him to death.” But the other said, “He shall be neither mine nor yours; divide him.”
27 Then the king answered and said, “Give the living child to the first woman, and by no means put him to death; she is his mother.”
28 And all Israel heard of the judgment that the king had rendered, and they stood in awe of the king, because they perceived that the wisdom of God was in him to do justice.
The True Meaning of 1 Kings 3
This passage from the book of 1 Kings provides insight into the early reign of King Solomon, the son of King David. The biblical historian, as the author, offers a glimpse into Solomon’s wisdom and leadership, foreshadowing the significant events that would shape his kingdom.
The chapter opens with Solomon’s marriage to Pharaoh’s daughter, a strategic political alliance. It then delves into a pivotal moment when God appears to Solomon in a dream, offering him the opportunity to request anything he desires. Solomon’s response, asking for an “understanding heart” to govern the people, demonstrates his humility and desire for wisdom, in contrast to the common human inclination for wealth or power. This sets the stage for the renowned judgment that follows, where Solomon’s discernment is put to the test.
Throughout this passage, we see echoes of God’s covenant with David, as recorded in 2 Samuel 7, where the Lord promises to establish David’s throne forever. The author’s emphasis on Solomon’s wisdom and leadership foreshadows the prosperity and peace that will characterize his reign, as prophesied in 1 Chronicles 22:9-10. However, the chapter also hints at the challenges and temptations that will later test Solomon’s devotion to the Lord, as we will see in the subsequent chapters of 1 Kings.
1 Kings 3:1-3
King Solomon, the son of King David, succeeded his father to the throne of Israel, as provided in an introduction to his life in 1 Kings 3:1-3. The passage opens by stating that Solomon made an alliance with Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, by marrying his daughter. It is crucial to note that forming alliances through marriage was a common practice during that time to ensure political stability and security between nations. However, this act of marrying an Egyptian princess raises concerns regarding Solomon’s faithfulness to God’s command to the Israelites not to intermarry with the pagan nations around them, as these unions often led to the introduction of foreign gods and practices. Solomon loved the Lord and walked in the statutes of his father David, as mentioned in the passage. Despite Solomon’s initial dedication to following God, the marriage to a foreign princess foreshadows potential challenges to his faithfulness in the future. Solomon’s commitment to God is emphasized here, reflecting the importance of obedience and loyalty to the Lord in the life of a king and a leader. Solomon’s actions in this passage remind us of the broader Biblical theme of the dangers of compromise and the consequences of straying from God’s commands. God explicitly warns the Israelites against intermarrying with the surrounding pagan nations in Deuteronomy 7:3-4 because this would lead their hearts astray from Him. Throughout the Bible, we see the repercussions of such unions, as seen in the lives of King Solomon and many others who compromised their faith for political alliances or personal desires.
Thus, 1 Kings 3:1-3 serves as a cautionary reminder for believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to prioritize obedience to God above all else, even in the face of appealing opportunities or worldly alliances. It sets the stage for the challenges and decisions that Solomon will face throughout his reign, foreshadowing both his wisdom and his eventual downfall due to drifting away from God’s commands.
1 Kings 3:4-9
King Solomon’s earnest desire to seek wisdom and understanding from God is seen in 1 Kings 3:4-9. The verse reads, “And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was the great high place; Solomon used to offer a thousand burnt offerings on that altar. At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, ‘Ask what I shall give you.’ And Solomon said, ‘You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant David my father because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you. And you have kept for him this great and steadfast love and have given him a son to sit on his throne this day. And now, O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in. And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. Give your servant, therefore, an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?’”
Solomon’s act of offering a thousand burnt offerings at the altar in Gibeon was his way of seeking God’s favor and guidance. It shows his dedication and reverence towards God. The fact that God appeared to Solomon in a dream after these offerings signifies God’s acceptance and presence in Solomon’s life.
Solomon acknowledges God’s faithfulness to his father, David, highlighting the importance of generational blessings and God’s covenant with the people of Israel. He humbly admits his own shortcomings and lack of experience, referring to himself as a “little child” in need of guidance. This humility is crucial, as it demonstrates a readiness to rely on God rather than his own wisdom or strength.
Solomon’s request for wisdom to govern the people of Israel reflects his understanding of the weight of responsibility placed upon him. He recognizes the complexity of ruling such a vast and chosen people and acknowledges his need for divine discernment between good and evil. Solomon shows that he values wisdom above material wealth or power by asking for an understanding mind, a quality that God finds pleasing and grants him for his selfless request.
This passage teaches us the importance of seeking wisdom from God, acknowledging our limitations, and relying on His guidance in all aspects of our lives. It reminds us that true wisdom comes from God and is essential for leadership and decision-making. Solomon’s humility and desire for wisdom set an example for believers to prioritize spiritual discernment over worldly achievements. This story also foreshadows Solomon’s future as a wise and just king, known for his legendary wisdom as described in 1 Kings 4:29-34.
1 Kings 3:10-15
- Section Breakdown:
- “The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this”: This section highlights God’s reaction to Solomon’s request for wisdom.
- “So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart”: God’s response to Solomon’s request, promising him wisdom and discernment.
- “And I will also give you what you have not asked for—both wealth and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. And if you walk in obedience to me and keep my decrees and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life”: God’s additional blessings for Solomon for his selfless request for wisdom.
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“Then Solomon awoke—and he realized it had been a dream”: Solomon’s realization that the encounter with God where he received wisdom and blessings was a dream.
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Solomon, the newly appointed king of Israel, humbly asks God for wisdom and discernment to lead his people effectively in this passage from 1 Kings 3:10-15. Solomon’s request for wisdom reflects his desire to govern justly and honor God in his leadership, setting a powerful example of seeking divine guidance before earthly treasures. This act of seeking wisdom aligns with the teachings found throughout the Bible, emphasizing the value of wisdom as a precious gift from God (Proverbs 2:6).
God’s response to Solomon’s request is profound. Not only does God grant Solomon’s plea for wisdom and discernment, but He also promises to bless him with wealth and honor beyond measure. This interaction showcases God’s generosity and how He rewards those who seek wisdom and righteousness above personal gain. The connection between God’s wisdom and blessings is reiterated in passages like Proverbs 3:13-18, where wisdom is described as more profitable than silver and yields long life, wealth, and honor.
Furthermore, the condition for Solomon to receive these blessings is obedience to God’s commands, just as his father David had done. This requirement underscores the importance of faithfulness and devotion to God in order to receive His abundant blessings. Through God’s response, we see a recurring theme in the Bible that emphasizes the rewards of seeking wisdom and following God’s ways (James 1:5).
Solomon’s realization that the encounter was a dream serves as a reminder that God’s blessings and guidance may come to us in unexpected ways, sometimes even in dreams or visions. It highlights the mysterious yet tangible ways in which God communicates with His people, reinforcing the idea that God’s wisdom transcends human understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9). Solomon’s humility and wisdom in seeking God’s guidance are showcased in this passage, emphasizing God’s faithfulness in rewarding those who prioritize wisdom and righteousness. It serves as a timeless lesson for believers to prioritize seeking God’s wisdom above all else, knowing that God’s blessings will follow those who walk in obedience and remain faithful in their devotion.
1 Kings 3:16-22
Two women came to King Solomon for a judgment in 1 Kings 3:16-22. The women were prostitutes living in the same house, and both had given birth to babies, but one of the infants died during the night because the mother lay on top of him. The mother of the deceased child accused the other woman of switching her living baby with her dead baby while she was asleep. This created a dispute between the two women, leading them to seek King Solomon’s wisdom to settle the matter.
This account showcases the wisdom and discernment that King Solomon was famous for. When hearing the women’s conflicting claims, Solomon doesn’t rush to judgment but instead comes up with a wise plan to uncover the truth. He orders a sword to be brought and commands that the living baby be cut in two, with each woman receiving half. The real mother’s love for her child is revealed when she selflessly offers to give up her claim to the child to save its life, whereas the other woman agrees to the baby being split.
King Solomon’s judgment to spare the child and award him to the true mother exemplifies his wisdom and discernment, given by God. This narrative highlights not only Solomon’s wisdom but also demonstrates the depth of a mother’s love and selflessness. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking wisdom from God when faced with challenging situations, as seen in Proverbs 2:6, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. The story reflects the theme of justice and reveals the ultimate truth. God’s divine wisdom was bestowed upon Solomon, enabling him to see past deception and falsehood. This aligns with biblical principles that emphasize the importance of seeking and upholding truth and righteousness. “The Lord detests lying lips, but delights in people who are trustworthy,” as stated in Proverbs 12:22. King Solomon was able to bring about a just resolution by applying his God-given wisdom in this circumstance. The narrative of the two women before King Solomon serves as a powerful example of how divine wisdom can unravel deceit and reveal truth, emphasizing the significance of relying on God’s guidance in times of decision-making and conflict resolution.
1 Kings 3:23-28
Two women came to King Solomon with a dispute over a baby in 1 Kings 3:23-28. Both women lived in the same house, and each had given birth to a baby boy. However, one of the babies died during the night, and now both women were claiming that the surviving baby was their own. This situation put Solomon’s wisdom and judgment to the test.
Upon hearing their conflicting stories, Solomon devised a clever plan to determine the true mother of the living child. He called for a sword to be brought to him, and declared that the baby would be cut in two, with each woman receiving half. This was a bold and unconventional decision, but Solomon knew that the true mother would be revealed through her love and selflessness for her child.
One of the women, in her desperation to claim the child, agreed to Solomon’s proposal. However, the other woman, the real mother, begged Solomon to spare the child’s life and give him to the other woman instead of seeing him killed. Solomon immediately recognized the true mother based on her selfless plea. He pronounced her as the rightful mother and gave her the baby boy.
This story showcases the wisdom that God had bestowed upon Solomon. His divine wisdom enabled him to uncover the truth and deliver a just verdict. It also demonstrates the power of a mother’s love, as the true mother was willing to surrender her claim to the child to ensure his safety and well-being. This narrative emphasizes the importance of selflessness, compassion, and discernment in making decisions and seeking justice.
Throughout the Bible, wisdom is a recurring theme. Wisdom is given by the Lord; knowledge and understanding come from His mouth, as stated in Proverbs 2:6-8. He holds success in store for the upright, He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones.” Here, we see that wisdom comes from God and is a valuable trait that leads to righteousness and protection.
Solomon’s wisdom was not only admired by his people but also by neighboring nations. The Queen of Sheba visited Solomon to test his wisdom and was left in awe of his insight and discernment (1 Kings 10:1-5). This demonstrates how wisdom can attract others to God and serve as a testament to His greatness. The account of the women and the baby before Solomon serves as a powerful illustration of divine wisdom, maternal love, and the importance of righteous judgment. It teaches us to seek God’s wisdom in our decisions, to show compassion and selflessness towards others, and to trust in the Lord to guide us in discerning the truth.
After 1 Kings 3
The young king had shown great wisdom in his request for an understanding heart to govern the people. The Lord was pleased with his humble request and granted him not only wisdom, but also riches and honor. The people marveled at the discernment of their new king as the chapter drew to a close, for he had demonstrated his ability to judge rightly and bring justice to the land.
Yet, the true test of his leadership was still to come. For as the kingdom prospered, the temptations of power and wealth would surely arise, threatening to sway even the wisest of hearts. The reverend knew that the next chapter would reveal whether this king, anointed by God, would remain steadfast in his devotion or succumb to the allures of the world.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.