1 Kings 3:11

KJV

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;

KJV (with Strong's)

And God {H430} said {H559} unto him, Because thou hast asked {H7592} this thing {H1697}, and hast not asked {H7592} for thyself long {H7227} life {H3117}; neither hast asked {H7592} riches {H6239} for thyself, nor hast asked {H7592} the life {H5315} of thine enemies {H341}; but hast asked {H7592} for thyself understanding {H995} to discern {H8085} judgment {H4941};

Complete Jewish Bible

God said to him, "Because you have made this request instead of asking long life or riches for yourself, or your enemies' death, but rather asked for yourself understanding to discern justice;

Berean Standard Bible

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—

American Standard Version

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;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This pivotal verse in 1 Kings 3:11 captures God's profound approval of King Solomon's unique petition. Following a divine invitation to ask for anything, Solomon chose not to seek personal longevity, immense wealth, or the destruction of his adversaries, but rather an understanding heart to govern God's people with righteousness and discernment. This divine affirmation underscores the supreme value God places on selfless leadership and wisdom dedicated to justice, laying the foundation for Solomon's renowned reign and establishing a timeless principle for divine favor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Kings 3:11 is the divine response to King Solomon's prayer, immediately following his humble request for wisdom in [1 Kings 3:9](/1_kings/3-9 "Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom"). The narrative begins with Solomon's establishment as king, his strategic alliances (including his marriage to Pharaoh's daughter), and his grand offering of a thousand burnt offerings at the high place in Gibeon. It is in this context of devotion that God appears to him in a dream, inviting him to make any request. Solomon's choice, detailed in [1 Kings 3:7-9](/1_kings/3-7-9 "Solomon's Humility and Request for Wisdom"), to prioritize governing God's vast people with justice over personal gain, sets the stage for God's commendation in verse 11 and the subsequent granting of unparalleled wisdom and prosperity in [1 Kings 3:12-14](/1_kings/3-12-14 "God Grants Solomon Wisdom and Riches"). This verse thus serves as the critical pivot, confirming God's pleasure and initiating the era of Solomon's renowned sagacity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Solomon's reign (circa 970-931 BC) marked a period of significant transition and consolidation for Israel, following the foundational rule of his father, David. In the ancient Near East, kings were typically expected to secure prosperity, military dominance, and longevity for themselves and their dynasties. Their prayers and actions often reflected these desires, aiming for personal power and the subjugation of enemies. The act of offering a thousand burnt offerings at the high place in Gibeon, a prominent cultic site before the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, was a significant act of devotion, signaling Solomon's intent to rule under divine favor. His subsequent request, therefore, stands in stark contrast to the typical aspirations of contemporary monarchs, highlighting a unique understanding of his divine mandate to administer justice to God's covenant people. This context magnifies the exceptional nature of Solomon's selfless choice.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes central to the book of [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "The Book of 1 Kings") and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **divine favor for selfless prayer**, demonstrating God's delight in requests that prioritize His will and the well-being of His people over personal ambition. Secondly, it highlights the **supreme value of wisdom and discernment**, portraying them as far more precious than temporal riches, power, or even extended life, a theme echoed throughout [Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "The Book of Proverbs"). Solomon's choice emphasizes that true leadership, especially in a theocracy, necessitates spiritual insight to "discern judgment." Finally, the passage reinforces the principle of **prioritizing God's kingdom and justice**, aligning with the broader biblical call to seek God's righteousness first, as later taught in [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Seek First the Kingdom of God"). God's subsequent abundant blessing of Solomon, beyond what he asked, further illustrates divine generosity when human desires align with divine purposes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Asked (Hebrew, _shâʼal'_):** This verb (H7592) denotes the act of inquiring or requesting. It implies a seeking from a position of dependence, often with a sense of earnestness or humility. In this context, it highlights the deliberate and conscious nature of Solomon's petition, emphasizing that his request was a considered choice, not a casual utterance, made in recognition of his need for divine assistance.
* **Understanding (Hebrew, _bîyn'_):** This primitive root (H995) means "to separate mentally" or "to distinguish," and generally refers to the capacity to understand. It signifies profound insight, the ability to perceive relationships between ideas, and to discern between complex matters. It implies a deep comprehension that leads to practical wisdom and prudence, often translated as "discernment" or "intelligence." This aligns with Solomon's desire for a "hearing heart" (לֵב שֹׁמֵעַ, _lev shomea'_) in [1 Kings 3:9](/1_kings/3-9 "Solomon's Prayer for a Hearing Heart").
* **Judgment (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** This noun (H4941) properly refers to a verdict pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree. Abstractly, it encompasses justice, including a participant's right or privilege, or even a style of governance. In this context, it signifies the practical application of wisdom in governing, specifically the ability to make righteous, equitable, and discerning decisions in legal, administrative, and ethical matters, ensuring fairness and upholding divine standards among the people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And God said unto him":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the divine origin and authority of the statement. It is a direct, personal communication from God (H430, _ʼĕlôhîym_) to Solomon, underscoring the significance of the moment and the divine approval that follows. It is not a mere thought or impression, but a clear, spoken word (H559, _ʼâmar_) from the Almighty, validating Solomon's choice.
* **"Because thou hast asked this thing":** This clause provides the divine rationale for God's subsequent blessing. It directly links God's favorable response to the specific content and character of Solomon's prayer, emphasizing that God's commendation is a direct consequence of Solomon's unique and selfless petition for wisdom. God's blessing is not arbitrary but a just response to a righteous desire. The "thing" (H1697, _dâbâr_) refers to the matter or word spoken by Solomon.
* **"and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies;":** This tripartite negation powerfully highlights the extraordinary nature of Solomon's request by contrasting it with the conventional desires of rulers in the ancient world. Longevity (H3117, _yôwm_, often meaning "days" or "life's duration"), personal wealth (H6239, _ʻôsher_), and military victory over adversaries (H5315, _nephesh_, "life" of H341, _ʼôyêb_, "enemies") were standard aspirations for kings. Yet Solomon deliberately eschewed these, showcasing a profound spiritual maturity and a focus beyond personal gain. This emphasizes his singular devotion to his divinely appointed task.
* **"but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;":** This final clause presents the positive and pivotal choice Solomon made. It specifies the precise nature of his request: "understanding" (H995, _bîyn_) for the purpose of "discerning judgment" (H8085, _shâmaʻ_ and H4941, _mishpâṭ_). This demonstrates Solomon's recognition of his immense responsibility to govern God's people justly, prioritizing divine wisdom and righteous administration over all other personal benefits. It reveals a heart concerned with the welfare of God's covenant people.

#### Literary Devices
The literary power of [1 Kings 3:11](/1_kings/3-11 "God's Commendation of Solomon's Request") is significantly enhanced by the strategic use of several devices. Foremost is **Contrast**, as the verse meticulously juxtaposes what Solomon *did not* request—long life, personal riches, or the demise of his enemies—against the singular, profound desire he *did* express: "understanding to discern judgment." This stark differentiation serves to elevate the spiritual value of wisdom above all temporal and material aspirations, underscoring the exceptional nature of Solomon's heart. The **Repetition** of the phrase "hast asked for thyself" (or similar phrasing in Hebrew) emphasizes Solomon's deliberate and personal agency in his choice, reinforcing the idea that his request was a conscious act of prioritizing divine service. Furthermore, the verse functions as a direct **Divine Commendation**, where God Himself articulates His pleasure and approval, lending immense weight and authority to the principles embodied in Solomon's prayer. This divine affirmation sets the tone for Solomon's subsequent reign and establishes a model for righteous leadership.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse serves as a profound theological touchstone, illustrating God's character and His priorities for humanity, particularly for those in positions of leadership. It resonates deeply with the broader biblical emphasis on wisdom as a divine gift and a foundational virtue, far surpassing material wealth or worldly power. God's commendation of Solomon's selfless request reveals that He values a heart aligned with His purposes of justice and righteous governance. This principle is not limited to kings but extends to every believer: when our desires are shaped by a genuine concern for God's glory and the well-being of others, rather than self-enrichment or temporal advantage, we position ourselves for divine favor and provision. It underscores the truth that true spiritual riches lie in discerning God's will and applying His truth in every sphere of life.

* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "Asking God for Wisdom")
* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Seeking First the Kingdom of God")
* [Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "The Lord Gives Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's exemplary choice in [1 Kings 3:11](/1_kings/3-11 "God's Commendation of Solomon's Request") offers a timeless challenge and profound encouragement for believers today. It compels us to critically examine the desires that animate our own prayers and pursuits. In a world that often prioritizes personal gain, comfort, and immediate gratification, Solomon's selfless request for wisdom to serve others stands as a powerful counter-narrative. This passage invites us to re-evaluate what we truly value and to consider if our aspirations align with God's heart for justice, righteousness, and the flourishing of His people. When we prioritize spiritual discernment and the capacity to make wise, God-honoring decisions—not just for leadership roles, but in our daily interactions, families, workplaces, and communities—we reflect the very character of God and position ourselves to be channels of His blessing. This is a call to cultivate a "hearing heart" that is attuned to divine wisdom, enabling us to navigate life's complexities with integrity and to serve others effectively.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the deepest desires that shape my prayers and daily pursuits? Do they primarily reflect personal gain or God's purposes?**
* **How does my pursuit of spiritual wisdom and discernment compare to my pursuit of worldly success, wealth, or comfort?**
* **In what specific areas of my life—family, work, relationships, community—do I most need God's "understanding to discern judgment"?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to cultivate a "hearing heart" that is more attuned to God's wisdom and the needs of others?**

### FAQ
**Why was God so pleased with Solomon's specific request for "understanding to discern judgment"?**

Answer: God's pleasure stemmed from the profound selflessness and divine alignment of Solomon's request. Unlike typical monarchs who would prioritize personal longevity, immense wealth, or military dominance over enemies, Solomon recognized the immense responsibility of governing God's chosen people. His request for wisdom to administer justice demonstrated a heart dedicated to God's purposes and the well-being of His covenant people, rather than personal aggrandizement. This prioritization of righteous governance reflected God's own character and His desire for His people to live justly, making it a prayer perfectly aligned with His will.

**Does Solomon's example mean it's wrong to pray for personal needs like long life, health, or financial stability?**

Answer: Not at all. Solomon's example in [1 Kings 3:11](/1_kings/3-11 "God's Commendation of Solomon's Request") does not prohibit praying for personal needs, but rather establishes a principle of **prioritization**. God is concerned with every aspect of our lives, and the Bible encourages us to bring all our requests to Him ([Philippians 4:6](/philippians/4-6 "Do Not Be Anxious, But Pray")). However, Solomon's choice highlights that our primary focus should be on God's kingdom and righteousness. When we seek spiritual wisdom, discernment, and the ability to serve God's purposes first, God often generously provides for our other needs, sometimes even beyond what we could imagine, as He did for Solomon in [1 Kings 3:13](/1_kings/3-13 "God Grants Riches and Honor to Solomon"). It teaches us to seek the Giver more than the gifts, trusting His sovereign provision and understanding that true fulfillment comes from aligning our desires with His.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Solomon's request for wisdom and God's subsequent granting of unparalleled discernment marked a golden age for Israel, this narrative ultimately finds its profoundest fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Solomon's wisdom, though extraordinary, was a shadow of the ultimate wisdom embodied in Christ, who is Himself "the wisdom of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")) and in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Christ, in Whom are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom")). Solomon's reign of peace and justice, facilitated by his God-given discernment, foreshadowed the eternal, righteous kingdom of Christ, the true King of Peace who judges with perfect equity ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "The Prince of Peace") and [Isaiah 11:3-4](/isaiah/11-3-4 "Righteous Judgment of the Messiah")). Unlike Solomon, whose wisdom and heart eventually wavered, leading to compromise and idolatry ([1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1-8 "Solomon's Idolatry")), Jesus' wisdom is perfect, unwavering, and eternally pure. His ultimate "selfless request" was not for earthly discernment but for the Father's will in Gethsemane, leading to the cross, where He became the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Jesus Prays in Gethsemane") and [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Thus, Solomon's wise choice points beyond himself to the One who is Wisdom incarnate, the perfect King and Judge, whose reign of justice and peace is eternal and unblemished.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 8:26

¶ Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

1 Kings 3:9

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?

James 4:2

Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.

James 4:3

Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume [it] upon your lusts.

Proverbs 16:31

¶ The hoary head [is] a crown of glory, [if] it be found in the way of righteousness.

Psalms 4:6

¶ [There be] many that say, Who will shew us [any] good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.

Matthew 20:21

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.