1 Kings 3:20

So 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.

Study Bible

So she got up in the middle of the night
This phrase highlights the setting of the event, occurring at night, a time often associated with vulnerability and deceit in biblical narratives. The darkness of night can symbolize the moral darkness of the act being committed. In biblical times, night was a time when people were most vulnerable, as there was no artificial lighting to provide security. This act of deception is reminiscent of other biblical stories where significant events occur at night, such as Jacob's wrestling with God (Genesis 32:22-31).

and took my son from my side while I was asleep.
The act of taking the child from the mother's side while she was asleep underscores the betrayal and violation of trust. Sleep is often used in the Bible to symbolize a state of unawareness or vulnerability, as seen in the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13). The mother’s vulnerability is exploited, reflecting the broader theme of innocence being taken advantage of by deceitful actions. This also echoes the story of Rachel and Leah, where deception occurs while one party is unaware (Genesis 29:23-25).

She laid him in her bosom
The bosom is a place of intimacy and care, often used in Scripture to denote a close and nurturing relationship, as seen in the imagery of being in Abraham's bosom (Luke 16:22-23). By placing the living child in her bosom, the woman attempts to claim a relationship and bond that is not rightfully hers. This act of deception is a perversion of the natural maternal bond, highlighting the depth of her deceit.

and put her dead son at my bosom.
This final act of switching the children is the culmination of the deceit, symbolizing the exchange of life for death. The dead son represents the consequences of sin and deception, as death is often a result of sin in biblical theology (Romans 6:23). The switch also serves as a test of true motherhood, which Solomon later discerns through his wisdom. This narrative foreshadows the ultimate discernment and justice that will be perfectly fulfilled in Christ, who is the true judge and discerner of hearts (Hebrews 4:12-13).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel known for his wisdom, who is approached by two women with a dispute over a living child.

2. Two Women
Both are described as harlots, living in the same house, each having given birth to a son around the same time.

3. The Living Child
The subject of the dispute between the two women, representing the true mother's claim.

4. The Dead Child
The child who died during the night, leading to the switch and subsequent dispute.

5. The Royal Court
The setting where King Solomon hears the case and makes his wise judgment.

Teaching Points

The Value of Wisdom
Solomon's ability to discern the truth in a complex situation highlights the importance of seeking God's wisdom in our own lives.

The Sanctity of Life
The account underscores the preciousness of life and the deep bond between a mother and her child.

Truth and Justice
The account illustrates the necessity of truthfulness and the pursuit of justice, even when the truth is difficult to discern.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Solomon's wise judgment reflects God's sovereign hand in guiding leaders to administer justice.

The Role of Discernment
Believers are called to develop discernment, seeking God's guidance to navigate complex moral and ethical dilemmas.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's request for wisdom earlier in 1 Kings 3 prepare him for this moment of judgment?

2. In what ways can we seek God's wisdom in our daily decision-making processes?

3. How does the account of the two women and the living child illustrate the importance of truth in our relationships?

4. What can we learn from Solomon's approach to resolving conflict that can be applied to conflicts in our own lives?

5. How do the themes of justice and truth in this passage connect to the broader biblical account of God's character?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:16
This verse, part of the Ten Commandments, emphasizes the importance of truthfulness, which is central to the dispute between the two women.

Proverbs 3:5-6
These verses highlight the importance of trusting in the Lord and not leaning on one's own understanding, which Solomon exemplifies by seeking divine wisdom.

James 1:5
This verse encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, reflecting Solomon's earlier request for wisdom from God.

Psalm 139:13-16
These verses speak to God's intimate knowledge of us from the womb, underscoring the value of life and the maternal bond.

Matthew 7:7-8
These verses about asking, seeking, and knocking relate to the pursuit of truth and justice, as demonstrated by Solomon's judgment.