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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Kings 3:11 So God said to him, "Since you have asked for this instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself or death for your enemies--but you have asked for discernment to administer justice--</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_kings/3-11.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/9/11_1Ki_03_11.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Kings 3:11 - God Grants Wisdom, Riches, and Honor" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="So God said to him, Since you have asked for this instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself or death for your enemies--but you have asked for discernment to administer justice--" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; <a href="/nkjv/1_kings/3.htm">New King James Version</a> Then God said to him: “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, <a href="/nasb_/1_kings/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> And God said to him, “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked for yourself a long life, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have you asked for the lives of your enemies, but have asked for yourself discernment to understand justice, <a href="/nasb/1_kings/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> God said to him, &#8220Because you have asked this thing and have not asked for yourself long life, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have you asked for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself discernment to understand justice, <a href="/nasb77/1_kings/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And God said to him, “Because you have asked this thing and have not asked for yourself long life, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have you asked for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself discernment to understand justice, <a href="/lsb/1_kings/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> And God said to him, “Because you have asked this thing and have not asked for yourself long life, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have you asked for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself discernment to listen to justice, <a href="/amp/1_kings/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> God said to him, “Because you have asked this and have not asked for yourself a long life nor for wealth, nor for the lives of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to recognize justice, <a href="/csb/1_kings/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> So God said to him, “Because you have requested this and did not ask for long life or riches for yourself, or the death of your enemies, but you asked discernment for yourself to administer justice, <a href="/hcsb/1_kings/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> So God said to him, &#8220Because you have requested this and did not ask for long life or riches for yourself, or the death of your enemies, but you asked discernment for yourself to understand justice, <a href="/asv/1_kings/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life, neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies, but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern justice; <a href="/erv/1_kings/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; <a href="/gwt/1_kings/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> God replied, "You've asked for this and not for a long life, or riches for yourself, or the death of your enemies. Instead, you've asked for understanding so that you can do what is right. <a href="/gnt/1_kings/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> and so 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, <a href="/isv/1_kings/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> so God told him: "Because you asked for this, and you didn't ask for a long life for yourself, and you didn't ask for the lives of your enemies, but instead you've asked for discernment so you can understand how to govern, <a href="/msb/1_kings/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> So God said to him, ?Since you have asked for this instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself or death for your enemies?but you have asked for discernment to administer justice? <a href="/net/1_kings/3.htm">NET Bible</a> God said to him, "Because you asked for the ability to make wise judicial decisions, and not for long life, or riches, or vengeance on your enemies, <a href="/nheb/1_kings/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> God said to him, "Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked for yourself long life, neither have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice; <a href="/wbt/1_kings/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And God said to him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thy enemies: but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; <a href="/web/1_kings/3.htm">World English Bible</a> God said to him, “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked for yourself long life, nor have you asked for riches for yourself, nor have you asked for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_kings/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and God says to him, “Because that you have asked for this thing, and have not asked for many days for yourself, nor asked for riches for yourself, nor asked for the life of your enemies, and have asked for discernment for yourself to understand judgment, <a href="/ylt/1_kings/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and God saith unto him, 'Because that thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thee many days, nor asked for thee riches, nor asked the life of thine enemies, and hast asked for thee discernment to understand judgment, <a href="/slt/1_kings/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And God will say to him, Because thou didst ask this word, and didst not ask for thyself many days; and didst not ask for thyself riches, and didst not ask the soul of thine enemies: and didst ask for thyself to have understanding to hear judgment;<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_kings/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And the Lord said to Solomon: Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life or riches, nor the lives of thy enemies, but hast asked for thyself wisdom to discern judgment, <a href="/cpdv/1_kings/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And the Lord said to Solomon: “Since you have requested this word, and you have not asked for many days or for wealth for yourself, nor for the lives of your enemies, but instead you have requested for yourself wisdom in order to discern judgment: <a href="/nabre/1_kings/3.htm">New American Bible</a> So God said to him: Because you asked for this—you did not ask for a long life for yourself, nor for riches, nor for the life of your enemies—but you asked for discernment to know what is right— <a href="/nrsvce/1_kings/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches, or for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right,<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_kings/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And the LORD said to Solomon, Because you have asked this thing and have not asked for yourself riches, neither have you asked the lives of your enemies nor have you asked for yourself long life, but have asked for yourself wisdom to discern judgment; <a href="/hpbt/1_kings/3.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And LORD JEHOVAH said to Solomon: “Because you requested this matter, and you have not requested for yourself riches and you have not requested for yourself the lives of your enemies, and you have not requested for yourself many days, and you have asked for yourself wisdom to hear judgment.<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/1_kings/3.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> And God said unto him: 'Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern justice; <a href="/sep/1_kings/3.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And the Lord said to him, Because thou hast asked this thing of me, and hast not asked for thyself long life, and hast not asked wealth, nor hast asked the lives of thine enemies, but hast asked for thyself understanding to hear judgement; <a href="/parallel/1_kings/3-11.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xx9A0AxPaoQ?start=1231" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_kings/3.htm">God Grants Wisdom, Riches, and Honor</a> 10Now it pleased the Lord that Solomon had made this request. 11<a href="/hebrew/430.htm" title="430: ’ĕ·lō·hîm (N-mp) -- Plural of 'elowahh; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used of the supreme God">So God</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">said</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’ê·lāw (Prep:: 3ms) -- To, into, towards. ">to him,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3282.htm" title="3282: ya·‘an (Adv) -- From an unused root meaning to pay attention; properly, heed; by implication, purpose; used adverbially to indicate the reason or cause.">“Since</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc."></a> <a href="/hebrew/7592.htm" title="7592: šā·’al·tā (V-Qal-Perf-2ms) -- To ask, inquire. Or shael; a primitive root; to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand.">you have asked for</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: ’eṯ- (DirObjM) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1697.htm" title="1697: had·dā·ḇār (Art:: N-ms) -- Speech, word. From dabar; a word; by implication, a matter or thing; adverbially, a cause."></a> <a href="/hebrew/2088.htm" title="2088: haz·zeh (Art:: Pro-ms) -- This, here. A primitive word; the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that.">this</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: wə·lō- (Conj-w:: Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">instead of</a> <a href="/hebrew/7592.htm" title="7592: šā·’al·tā (V-Qal-Perf-2ms) -- To ask, inquire. Or shael; a primitive root; to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand.">requesting</a> <a href="/hebrew/lə·ḵā (Prep:: 2ms) -- "></a> <a href="/hebrew/7227.htm" title="7227: rab·bîm (Adj-mp) -- Much, many, great. By contracted from rabab; abundant.">long</a> <a href="/hebrew/3117.htm" title="3117: yā·mîm (N-mp) -- Day. From an unused root meaning to be hot; a day, whether literal, or figurative.">life</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: wə·lō- (Conj-w:: Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">or</a> <a href="/hebrew/7592.htm" title="7592: šā·’al·tā (V-Qal-Perf-2ms) -- To ask, inquire. Or shael; a primitive root; to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand."></a> <a href="/hebrew/6239.htm" title="6239: ‘ō·šer (N-ms) -- Riches. From ashar; wealth.">wealth</a> <a href="/hebrew/lə·ḵā (Prep:: 2ms) -- ">for yourself</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: wə·lō (Conj-w:: Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">or</a> <a href="/hebrew/7592.htm" title="7592: šā·’al·tā (V-Qal-Perf-2ms) -- To ask, inquire. Or shael; a primitive root; to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5315.htm" title="5315: ne·p̄eš (N-fsc) -- From naphash; properly, a breathing creature, i.e. Animal of vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense.">death</a> <a href="/hebrew/341.htm" title="341: ’ō·yə·ḇe·ḵā (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mpc:: 2ms) -- Hating, an adversary. Or owyeb; active participle of 'ayab; hating; an adversary.">for your enemies—</a> <a href="/hebrew/7592.htm" title="7592: wə·šā·’al·tā (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConjPerf-2ms) -- To ask, inquire. Or shael; a primitive root; to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand.">but you have asked</a> <a href="/hebrew/lə·ḵā (Prep:: 2ms) -- "></a> <a href="/hebrew/995.htm" title="995: hā·ḇîn (V-Hifil-Inf) -- To discern. A primitive root; to separate mentally, i.e.(generally) understand.">for discernment</a> <a href="/hebrew/8085.htm" title="8085: liš·mō·a‘ (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To hear. A primitive root; to hear intelligently.">to administer</a> <a href="/hebrew/4941.htm" title="4941: miš·pāṭ (N-ms) -- Judgment. ">justice—</a> 12behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been nor will ever be another like you.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a> Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. <a href="/proverbs/2-6.htm">Proverbs 2:6</a> For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. <a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7</a> Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding. <a href="/2_chronicles/1-11.htm">2 Chronicles 1:11-12</a> God said to Solomon, “Since this was in your heart instead of requesting riches or wealth or honor 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— / therefore wisdom and knowledge have been granted to you. And I will also give you riches and wealth and honor unlike anything given to the kings before you or after you.” <a href="/matthew/6-33.htm">Matthew 6:33</a> But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. <a href="/proverbs/16-16.htm">Proverbs 16:16</a> How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is more desirable than silver. <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:11-12</a> Wisdom, like an inheritance, is good, and it benefits those who see the sun. / For wisdom, like money, is a shelter, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner. <a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Colossians 1:9</a> For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, <a href="/ephesians/1-17.htm">Ephesians 1:17</a> that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him. <a href="/proverbs/3-13.htm">Proverbs 3:13-14</a> Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who acquires understanding, / for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold. <a href="/proverbs/8-10.htm">Proverbs 8:10-11</a> Receive my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. / For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire compares with her. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-30.htm">1 Corinthians 1:30</a> It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God: our righteousness, holiness, and redemption. <a href="/isaiah/11-2.htm">Isaiah 11:2</a> The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him—the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and strength, the Spirit of knowledge and fear of the LORD. <a href="/daniel/2-21.htm">Daniel 2:21</a> He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. <a href="/luke/12-31.htm">Luke 12:31</a> But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added unto you.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And God said to him, Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked for yourself long life; neither have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies; but have asked for yourself understanding to discern judgment;hast not<a href="/psalms/4-6.htm">Psalm 4:6</a> There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.<a href="/proverbs/16-31.htm">Proverbs 16:31</a> The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.<a href="/matthew/20-21.htm">Matthew 20:21,22</a> And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom… long life [heb] many days <a href="/1_kings/3-9.htm">1 Kings 3:9</a> Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/8-20.htm">Administering</a> <a href="/1_kings/2-46.htm">Death</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-9.htm">Discern</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-33.htm">Discernment</a> <a href="/2_samuel/24-13.htm">Enemies</a> <a href="/2_samuel/15-6.htm">Justice</a> <a href="/1_kings/2-23.htm">Life</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-25.htm">Riches</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-9.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_kings/2-3.htm">Thyself</a> <a href="/2_samuel/14-17.htm">Understand</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-9.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/2_samuel/12-2.htm">Wealth</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/8-20.htm">Administering</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-19.htm">Death</a> <a href="/ezra/3-13.htm">Discern</a> <a href="/1_kings/4-29.htm">Discernment</a> <a href="/1_kings/5-3.htm">Enemies</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-28.htm">Justice</a> <a href="/1_kings/4-21.htm">Life</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-13.htm">Riches</a> <a href="/1_kings/4-28.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_kings/13-7.htm">Thyself</a> <a href="/1_kings/20-22.htm">Understand</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-12.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-13.htm">Wealth</a><div class="vheading2">1 Kings 3</div>1. <a href="/1_kings/3-1.htm">Solomon marries Pharaoh's daughter</a> 2. <a href="/1_kings/3-2.htm">High places being in use, Solomon sacrifices at Gibeon</a> 5. <a href="/1_kings/3-5.htm">Solomon at Gibeon, in the choice which God gave him, </a> 10. <a href="/1_kings/3-10.htm">preferring wisdom, obtains wisdom, riches, and honor</a> 16. <a href="/1_kings/3-16.htm">Solomon's judgment makes him renowned</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_kings/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_kings/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_kings/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>So God said to him This phrase indicates a direct communication from God to Solomon, highlighting the personal relationship between God and the king. In the context of the Old Testament, God often communicated directly with key figures, such as Moses and David, to guide His people. This divine interaction underscores the importance of Solomon's request and God's approval of it.Since you have asked for this Solomon's request was for wisdom, specifically discernment to govern the people. This reflects his humility and recognition of the immense responsibility of leading Israel. It aligns with the biblical principle that God values a heart that seeks wisdom and understanding over material wealth or personal gain.instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself In ancient Near Eastern cultures, kings often sought longevity and prosperity as signs of divine favor and successful reign. Solomon's choice to prioritize wisdom over these common desires demonstrates a selfless approach to leadership, valuing the well-being of his people over personal gain. This choice is reminiscent of Jesus' teaching in <a href="/matthew/6-33.htm">Matthew 6:33</a>, where seeking God's kingdom and righteousness is prioritized over worldly concerns.or death for your enemies In the historical context of Israel, surrounded by hostile nations, a king might naturally desire the defeat of his enemies to secure peace and stability. Solomon's decision not to ask for the death of his enemies reflects a commitment to peace and justice, aligning with the biblical theme of loving one's enemies and seeking reconciliation, as later taught by Jesus in the New Testament.but you have asked for discernment to administer justice This request highlights Solomon's desire to be a just ruler, which is central to the biblical understanding of a good king. The Hebrew concept of justice (mishpat) involves fairness, righteousness, and the protection of the vulnerable. Solomon's request is a foreshadowing of the messianic king, Jesus Christ, who embodies perfect wisdom and justice. Solomon's wisdom is later demonstrated in the famous judgment involving two women claiming to be the mother of a child, showcasing his God-given ability to discern truth and administer justice.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a> The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is the newly anointed king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, Solomon's reign is marked by peace and prosperity. 2. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The sovereign Lord who appears to Solomon in a dream, offering him anything he desires. God's response to Solomon's request highlights His approval of Solomon's priorities. 3. <a href="/topical/g/gibeon.htm">Gibeon</a> The place where Solomon offers sacrifices and where God appears to him in a dream. It is significant as a high place of worship before the temple in Jerusalem is built. 4. <a href="/topical/d/dream.htm">Dream</a> The medium through which God communicates with Solomon, offering him a choice of blessings. 5. <a href="/topical/d/discernment_in_administering_justice.htm">Discernment in Administering Justice</a> The specific request Solomon makes, which pleases God. It reflects Solomon's desire to govern wisely and justly.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/p/prioritizing_spiritual_wisdom.htm">Prioritizing Spiritual Wisdom</a> Solomon's request for discernment over personal gain teaches us to value spiritual wisdom above material wealth or personal vendettas. <a href="/topical/g/god's_generosity.htm">God's Generosity</a> God's response to Solomon shows His willingness to bless those who seek His wisdom. We are encouraged to approach God with requests that align with His will. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_justice_in_leadership.htm">The Role of Justice in Leadership</a> Solomon's desire for discernment in administering justice highlights the importance of fairness and righteousness in leadership roles. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_prayer.htm">The Power of Prayer</a> Solomon's interaction with God demonstrates the power of prayer and the importance of asking God for what we truly need to fulfill His purposes. <a href="/topical/g/god's_approval_of_selflessness.htm">God's Approval of Selflessness</a> Solomon's selfless request is met with God's approval, teaching us that selflessness aligns with God's heart and leads to His blessings.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_kings_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Kings 3</a> <a href="/q/what_events_are_described_in_1_kings.htm">What events are described in 1 Kings?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_forced_labor_fit_solomon's_wisdom.htm">How does the forced labor mentioned in 2 Chronicles 8:7–8 reconcile with biblical portrayals of Solomon’s wisdom and godly leadership?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'everything_is_meaningless'_mean.htm">What does "Everything is Meaningless" signify?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_spiritual_discernment.htm">What is spiritual discernment?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_kings/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(11) Because thou hast asked.--It is obvious to note this verse as a fulfilment of the Divine law, "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and -all these things shall be added unto you" (<a href="/matthew/6-33.htm" title="But seek you first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.">Matthew 6:33</a>). All these secondary blessings are good, just so far as they conduce to the supreme good, which is the growth of the human nature, by the knowledge of God and by faithfully doing His work on earth, to the perfection designed for it in His wisdom. So long as Solomon used them in subordination to true wisdom, they were a blessing to him; when he made them idols, they became a curse. The connection of these lower gifts with the moral and intellectual gifts of wisdom, is the result of the natural law of God's Providence, so far as that law overcomes the resistance of evil and folly, still allowed to strive against it.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_kings/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 11. - And God said unto him. Because thou hast asked this thing and hast not asked for thyself long life [Heb. many days]; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life [i.e., destruction in battle] of thine enemies [not so much personal enemies, like Hadad and Rezon, (Rawlinson) as military foes. The meaning is explained by the corresponding word, "honour" (כָּבוד glory) in ver. 13]; but hast asked [The word is repeated, according to Hebrew usage, now for the sixth time] for thyself understanding to discern [Heb. hear; see on ver. 9] Judgment. <a href="/commentaries/1_kings/3-11.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>So God אֱלֹהִ֜ים (’ĕ·lō·hîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_430.htm">Strong's 430: </a> gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative said וַיֹּ֨אמֶר (way·yō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say to him, אֵלָ֗יו (’ê·lāw) Preposition | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to “Since יַעַן֩ (ya·‘an) Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3282.htm">Strong's 3282: </a> Heed, purpose, to indicate the reason, cause you have asked for שָׁאַ֜לְתָּ (šā·’al·tā) Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7592.htm">Strong's 7592: </a> To inquire, to request, to demand this הַזֶּ֗ה (haz·zeh) Article | Pronoun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2088.htm">Strong's 2088: </a> This, that instead of וְלֹֽא־ (wə·lō-) Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no requesting שָׁאַ֨לְתָּ (šā·’al·tā) Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7592.htm">Strong's 7592: </a> To inquire, to request, to demand long רַבִּ֗ים (rab·bîm) Adjective - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7227.htm">Strong's 7227: </a> Much, many, great life יָמִ֣ים (yā·mîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3117.htm">Strong's 3117: </a> A day [or] וְלֹֽא־ (wə·lō-) Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no wealth for yourself עֹ֔שֶׁר (‘ō·šer) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6239.htm">Strong's 6239: </a> Wealth [or] וְלֹ֥א (wə·lō) Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no death נֶ֣פֶשׁ (ne·p̄eš) Noun - feminine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5315.htm">Strong's 5315: </a> A soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion for your enemies— אֹיְבֶ֑יךָ (’ō·yə·ḇe·ḵā) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_341.htm">Strong's 341: </a> Hating, an adversary but you have asked שָׁאַ֤לְתָּ (šā·’al·tā) Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7592.htm">Strong's 7592: </a> To inquire, to request, to demand for discernment הָבִ֖ין (hā·ḇîn) Verb - Hifil - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_995.htm">Strong's 995: </a> To separate mentally, understand to administer לִשְׁמֹ֥עַ (liš·mō·a‘) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8085.htm">Strong's 8085: </a> To hear intelligently justice— מִשְׁפָּֽט׃ (miš·pāṭ) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4941.htm">Strong's 4941: </a> A verdict, a sentence, formal decree, divine law, penalty, justice, privilege, style <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_kings/3-11.htm">1 Kings 3:11 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-11.htm">OT History: 1 Kings 3:11 God said to him Because you have (1Ki iKi i Ki 1 Kg 1kg) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_kings/3-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Kings 3:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Kings 3:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_kings/3-12.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Kings 3:12"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Kings 3:12" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>