Topical Encyclopedia The Dream of Solomon, concerning his choice of wisdom, is a pivotal event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 1 Kings 3:3-15 and 2 Chronicles 1:7-12. This event marks a significant moment in the life of Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, who succeeded his father as the king of Israel. Solomon's request for wisdom is often highlighted as a model of humility and discernment, reflecting his deep understanding of the responsibilities of leadership.Biblical Account The narrative begins with Solomon's devotion to the Lord, as he is described as walking in the statutes of his father David, though he offered sacrifices and burned incense on the high places (1 Kings 3:3). The most notable of these sacrifices occurred at Gibeon, where Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on the altar (1 Kings 3:4). It was at Gibeon that the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night. God said, "Ask for whatever you want Me to give you" (1 Kings 3:5). In response, Solomon acknowledged the great kindness God had shown to his father David and expressed gratitude for allowing him to succeed his father as king. Solomon then humbly admitted his own inadequacy, describing himself as "only a little child" who did not know how to carry out his duties (1 Kings 3:7). Solomon's request was profound: "Give Your servant, therefore, 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?" (1 Kings 3:9). This request pleased the Lord, as Solomon did not ask for long life, wealth, or the death of his enemies, but for discernment in administering justice (1 Kings 3:10-11). Divine Response God's response to Solomon's request was generous and far-reaching. The Lord said to Solomon, "Behold, I have done as you requested. I have given you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has been no one like you before you, nor shall anyone like you arise after you" (1 Kings 3:12). In addition to wisdom, God also granted Solomon what he did not ask for: both riches and honor, ensuring that no other king would compare to him during his lifetime (1 Kings 3:13). Furthermore, God promised Solomon long life, conditional upon his obedience to God's statutes and commands, as his father David had walked (1 Kings 3:14). Upon awakening, Solomon realized it was a dream, yet it was a divine encounter that set the course for his reign. Theological Significance The Dream of Solomon is often interpreted as a testament to the value of wisdom and the importance of seeking God's guidance in leadership. Solomon's choice reflects a prioritization of spiritual and moral discernment over material wealth and personal gain. This narrative underscores the biblical principle that true wisdom comes from God and is foundational for righteous governance. Solomon's request and God's response also highlight the covenantal relationship between God and the Davidic line, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises. The wisdom granted to Solomon became legendary, attracting leaders and dignitaries from surrounding nations, as exemplified by the visit of the Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10:1-13). Legacy Solomon's wisdom is immortalized in the biblical books traditionally attributed to him, including Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. His reign is often viewed as a golden age for Israel, marked by peace, prosperity, and the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. However, the narrative also serves as a cautionary tale, as Solomon's later years were marred by idolatry and disobedience, leading to the eventual division of the kingdom after his death. The Dream of Solomon remains a powerful illustration of the biblical ideal that wisdom, rooted in the fear of the Lord, is the principal thing (Proverbs 4:7). Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 3:3-15And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places. Nave's Topical Index Library On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ... How Two Natures Constitute the Person of the Mediator. "And Hereby we do Know that we Know Him, if we Keep his ... The Incomparable Bridegroom and his Bride Fellowship with God Christ Precious to Believers On the Words, Crucified and Buried. On the Death of his Father. Scenes in the Lives of the Patriarchs. Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... Resources Christian dream interpretation? Are our dreams from God? | GotQuestions.orgIs it a sin to have a sexual dream? | GotQuestions.org Is a wet dream / nocturnal emission a sin? | GotQuestions.org Dream: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Dream of Abimelech, , Concerning Sarah Dream of Daniel, Concerning the Four Beasts Dream of Eliphaz, of a Spirit Speaking to Him Dream of Jacob, Concerning the Ladder Dream of Joseph, Concerning Mary's Innocence Dream of Joseph, Concerning the Sheaves Dream of Laban, Concerning Jacob Dream of Midianite Concerning the Cake of Barley Dream of Pilate's Wife, Concerning Jesus Dream of Solomon, Concerning his Choice of Wisdom Dream: Concerning his Going Down Into Egypt Dream: Concerning the Flight Into Egypt Dream: Concerning the Return Into Palestine Dream: Concerning the Shipwreck, and the Safety of all on Board Dream: Cornelius Vision, Concerning Peter Dream: False Prophets Pretended to Receive Revelations Through Dream: Paul's Vision of the Man in Macedonia, Crying, "Come Over Into Macedonia" Dream: Peter's Vision of the Ceremonially Unclean Creatures Dream: Relating to his Going to Rome Dream: The Dreams of the Butler and Baker Dream: The Ring-Straked Cattle Related Terms Nebuchadrezzar (31 Occurrences) Understandest (10 Occurrences) |
    |