1 Kings 3:5-15 - Solomon's Request For Wisdom

⁵ That night Jehovah appeared to him in a dream and asked him: What do you want me to give you?

⁶ Solomon answered: You always showed great love for my father David, your servant. He was good, loyal, and honest in his relation with you. You have continued to show him your great and constant love by giving him a son who today rules in his place.

⁷ O Jehovah God, you allowed me to succeed my father as king, even though I am very young and do not know how to rule. ⁸ I am among the people you have chosen to be your own. They are a people who are so many that they cannot be counted. ⁹ Give me the wisdom I need to rule your people with justice. Help me know the difference between good and evil. Otherwise, how would I ever be able to rule this great people of yours?

¹⁰ Jehovah was pleased that Solomon asked for this. ¹¹ He said to him: Because you have asked for the wisdom to rule justly, instead of long life for yourself or riches or the death of your enemies, ¹² I will do what you have asked. I will give you more wisdom and understanding than anyone has ever had. There has never been nor will ever be anyone like you. ¹³ I will also give you what you did not ask for. All your life you will have wealth and honor, more than that of any other king. ¹⁴ If you obey me and keep my laws and commands, as your father David did, I will give you a long life.

¹⁵ Solomon woke up and was aware that God had spoken to him in the dream. Then he went to Jerusalem and stood in front of Jehovah's Ark of the Covenant. He offered burnt offerings and fellowship offerings to Jehovah. Then he gave a feast for all his officials.