1 Kings 3:5

ยถ In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.

In Gibeon {H1391} the LORD {H3068} appeared {H7200} to Solomon {H8010} in a dream {H2472} by night {H3915}: and God {H430} said {H559}, Ask {H7592} what I shall give {H5414} thee.

At Giv'on ADONAI appeared to Shlomo in a dream at night; God said, "Tell me what I should give you."

One night at Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, โ€œAsk, and I will give it to you!โ€

In Gibeon Jehovah appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.

Commentary

1 Kings 3:5 marks a pivotal moment early in the reign of King Solomon, son of David. This verse introduces a profound divine encounter that would shape his rule and legacy, setting the stage for his famous request for wisdom.

Context

Following his ascension to the throne, Solomon traveled to Gibeon, which was then the most important "high place" for worship and sacrifice in Israel, preceding the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. It was here, after Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings, that the LORD chose to appear to him. This appearance in a dream was a significant mode of divine communication in the ancient world, often reserved for prophets or key leaders, signifying God's direct engagement with His chosen king and the beginning of a new era for Israel under Solomon's rule.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Initiative: The verse clearly states, "the LORD appeared to Solomon," emphasizing God's proactive step in reaching out to the new king. This was not something Solomon sought out initially, but a direct manifestation of God's presence and favor, highlighting that God often initiates encounters with His people.
  • Unprecedented Offer: God's declaration, "Ask what I shall give thee," represents an open-ended, boundless invitation. It's an extraordinary blank check, placing the burden of choice directly on Solomon and revealing God's immense generosity and willingness to bless. This offer foreshadows Solomon's wise request for understanding to govern God's people, which immediately follows this divine encounter.
  • God's Engagement with Leadership: This encounter underscores God's active involvement in the governance of His people, particularly through their leaders. It sets the stage for God to test Solomon's priorities and heart, much like a father tests his son, providing a blueprint for righteous leadership.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "ask" is sha'al (ืฉืึธืึทืœ), which carries the meaning of requesting, inquiring, or even demanding. In this context, it's a direct and immediate command from God, underscoring the weight and freedom of the opportunity presented to Solomon. The phrase "dream by night" (ื—ึฒืœื•ึนื ื”ึทืœึผึทื™ึฐืœึธื”, chalom hallaylah) explicitly defines the medium of this divine revelation, clearly distinguishing it from a waking vision or prophetic utterance and emphasizing its specific nature.

Practical Application and Reflection

This verse offers timeless insights for believers today. It reminds us that God continues to be a God who initiates relationship and offers blessings. While we may not receive direct dream appearances as Solomon did, God invites us to "ask" Him for our needs and desires, promising to give good gifts to those who seek Him (Matthew 7:7). Solomon's response to this incredible offer, detailed in subsequent verses, serves as a powerful example of prioritizing spiritual wisdom and righteous governance over personal gain or worldly power. It encourages us to reflect on what we would ask for if given such a divine opportunity, revealing the true inclinations of our hearts and our deepest priorities.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • James 1:5 (18 votes)

    If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

  • James 1:6 (18 votes)

    But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

  • 1 Kings 9:2 (18 votes)

    That the LORD appeared to Solomon the second time, as he had appeared unto him at Gibeon.

  • Numbers 12:6 (14 votes)

    And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, [I] the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, [and] will speak unto him in a dream.

  • 2 Chronicles 1:7 (13 votes)

    In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee.

  • 2 Chronicles 1:12 (13 votes)

    Wisdom and knowledge [is] granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that [have been] before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.

  • John 14:13 (13 votes)

    And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.