2 Chronicles 1:11

God said to Solomon, "Since this was in your heart instead of requesting riches or wealth or glory for yourself or death for your enemies--and since you have not even requested long life but have asked for wisdom and knowledge to govern My people over whom I have made you king--

Study Bible

God said to Solomon,
This phrase highlights the direct communication between God and Solomon, emphasizing the personal relationship and divine favor Solomon enjoyed. It reflects the biblical theme of God speaking to chosen leaders, as seen with figures like Moses and David. This divine interaction underscores the importance of Solomon's role in Israel's history.

Since this was in your heart
The heart in biblical terms often represents the center of one's being, including thoughts, emotions, and will. Solomon's request reveals his genuine desire to lead wisely, aligning with God's values. This reflects the biblical principle that God values the intentions of the heart, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:7, where God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances.

instead of requesting riches or wealth or honor for yourself
This phrase contrasts Solomon's request with common human desires for material gain and personal glory. It highlights the biblical teaching that true wisdom and leadership prioritize the well-being of others over self-interest. This aligns with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament, where He emphasizes serving others over seeking personal gain (Mark 10:42-45).

or death for your enemies
In the ancient Near Eastern context, kings often sought the defeat of their enemies to secure their reign. Solomon's choice not to ask for this reflects a departure from typical royal priorities, emphasizing peace and wisdom over conflict. This foreshadows the peaceful reign of Christ, the Prince of Peace, who conquers not through violence but through love and sacrifice.

and since you have not even requested long life
Long life was considered a blessing and a sign of God's favor in the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 5:33). Solomon's decision not to ask for this indicates his focus on the immediate need for wisdom to govern effectively. This reflects the biblical theme that spiritual and moral priorities should take precedence over personal longevity.

but have asked for wisdom and knowledge
Solomon's request for wisdom and knowledge is central to his legacy and is celebrated in biblical literature, particularly in the Book of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. Wisdom in the Bible is often associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10) and is considered more valuable than riches (Proverbs 3:13-15). This request aligns with the biblical portrayal of Jesus as the embodiment of divine wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:24).

to govern My people
This phrase underscores Solomon's role as a servant leader, responsible for the well-being of God's chosen people, Israel. It reflects the biblical principle that leaders are stewards of God's people, accountable to Him for their governance. This is echoed in the New Testament, where church leaders are called to shepherd God's flock (1 Peter 5:2-3).

over whom I have made you king
This emphasizes God's sovereignty in appointing leaders, a recurring theme in the Bible. Solomon's kingship is portrayed as part of God's divine plan, similar to how God anointed David. This foreshadows the ultimate kingship of Jesus Christ, who is appointed by God to reign over all creation (Philippians 2:9-11).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is known for his wisdom and for building the First Temple in Jerusalem. He is the central figure in this passage, having just become king of Israel.

2. God
The sovereign deity of Israel, who appears to Solomon in a dream and offers him anything he desires. God's response to Solomon's request highlights His approval of Solomon's priorities.

3. Israel
The nation over which Solomon reigns. The context of Solomon's request is his desire to govern this people wisely.

4. Gibeon
The place where Solomon offered sacrifices and where God appeared to him in a dream. It was a significant high place before the Temple was built in Jerusalem.

5. Wisdom and Knowledge
The qualities Solomon requests from God, which are central to his ability to govern effectively. These are contrasted with more typical royal desires like wealth or power.

Teaching Points

Prioritizing Godly Wisdom
Solomon's request for wisdom over wealth or power demonstrates the importance of prioritizing spiritual discernment and understanding in leadership and personal life.

Aligning Desires with God's Will
Solomon's heart was aligned with God's purposes, showing that when our desires match God's will, He is pleased to grant them.

The Value of Selfless Leadership
Solomon's request was not for personal gain but for the benefit of his people, illustrating the biblical principle of servant leadership.

God's Generosity in Response to Righteous Requests
God's response to Solomon shows His willingness to bless those who seek His wisdom and prioritize His kingdom.

The Impact of a Heart for God
Solomon's heart for God set the foundation for his reign, reminding us that our inner motivations significantly impact our external actions and legacy.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Solomon's request for wisdom reveal about his character and priorities as a leader?

2. How can we apply Solomon's example of seeking wisdom in our own decision-making processes today?

3. In what ways does the New Testament encourage believers to seek wisdom, and how does this connect to Solomon's account?

4. How does Solomon's request demonstrate the principle of seeking first the kingdom of God, as taught by Jesus?

5. Reflect on a time when you prioritized God's wisdom over worldly desires. What was the outcome, and how did it affect your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:5-14
This parallel account of Solomon's request for wisdom provides additional details and emphasizes God's pleasure with Solomon's choice.

Proverbs 2:6
This verse highlights that wisdom comes from the Lord, reinforcing the idea that Solomon's request aligns with divine principles.

James 1:5
This New Testament passage encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, drawing a parallel to Solomon's request and God's generous response.