1 Kings 3:8

KJV

And thy servant [is] in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thy servant {H5650} is in the midst {H8432} of thy people {H5971} which thou hast chosen {H977}, a great {H7227} people {H5971}, that cannot be numbered {H4487} nor counted {H5608} for multitude {H7230}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moreover your servant is among your people, whom you chose, a great people so numerous that they cannot be counted.

Berean Standard Bible

Your servant is here among the people You have chosen, a people too numerous to count or number.

American Standard Version

And thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
King Solomon's profound humility and acute awareness of his immense responsibility as he stands before God. In a divine encounter at Gibeon, Solomon acknowledges his position as God's "servant" and recognizes the vastness of the nation of Israel—a people chosen by God and grown to an innumerable multitude, fulfilling ancient promises. This verse sets the stage for Solomon's subsequent request for wisdom, demonstrating his understanding that leading such a divinely appointed and numerous people requires divine enablement rather than personal strength or material gain.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Solomon's pivotal dream encounter with God at Gibeon, as recorded in [1 Kings 3](/1-kings/3 "1 Kings 3 - Solomon's Dream and Request for Wisdom"). Following Solomon's offering of a thousand burnt offerings, God appears to him and invites him to ask for whatever he desires ([1 Kings 3:5](/1-kings/3-5 "1 Kings 3:5 - God's Offer to Solomon")). Solomon's response, beginning in [1 Kings 3:6](/1-kings/3-6 "1 Kings 3:6 - Solomon's Acknowledgment of God's Faithfulness to David") and culminating in his request for an understanding heart in [1 Kings 3:9](/1-kings/3-9 "1 Kings 3:9 - Solomon's Request for Wisdom"), reveals his character and priorities. Verse 8 specifically serves as a foundational statement of humility and recognition of the magnitude of his task, preceding his wise petition. It highlights his self-perception as a steward rather than an absolute ruler, setting a precedent for godly leadership.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Solomon's reign marked a period of unprecedented peace and prosperity for Israel, a stark contrast to the tumultuous era of the judges and the early, often embattled, reign of Saul. Gibeon, where this encounter occurs, was a significant high place for worship before the construction of the Temple, indicating a continued, albeit sometimes problematic, practice of offering sacrifices there ([1 Kings 3:3-4](/1-kings/3-3 "1 Kings 3:3-4 - Solomon's Love for the Lord and Sacrifices at Gibeon")). Culturally, kings in the ancient Near East often boasted of their power and wealth; however, Solomon's posture here is one of profound humility, a characteristic highly valued in Israelite wisdom tradition, particularly when addressing the divine. His acknowledgment of Israel as "a great people, that cannot be numbered" directly references the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham, a central tenet of Israel's national identity and historical narrative.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Kings 3:8](/1-kings/3-8 "1 Kings 3:8 - Solomon's Humble Acknowledgment of His Role") contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of 1 Kings and the broader Old Testament narrative. Foremost is the **Nature of Godly Leadership**, exemplified by Solomon's humility and his recognition that true authority derives from God. His self-designation as "thy servant" underscores a posture of submission and dependence, a stark contrast to the self-aggrandizing rulers of surrounding nations. Another crucial theme is **God's Faithfulness to His Covenant Promises**, particularly the Abrahamic covenant. Solomon's description of Israel as "a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude" directly echoes God's promise to Abraham in [Genesis 12:2](/genesis/12-2 "Genesis 12:2 - God's Promise to Abraham of a Great Nation") and [Genesis 22:17](/genesis/22-17 "Genesis 22:17 - God's Oath to Abraham of Countless Descendants"), demonstrating the miraculous fulfillment of this divine pledge. Finally, the verse highlights the **Divine Election of Israel**, emphasizing that Israel's status as "thy people which thou hast chosen" is not due to their merit but solely to God's sovereign grace and purpose, a truth foundational to their identity as a nation set apart, as seen in [Deuteronomy 7:6](/deuteronomy/7-6 "Deuteronomy 7:6 - Israel as God's Holy People").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Servant (Hebrew, _‘eved_):** The Hebrew term עֶבֶד (`‘eved`) denotes a bondservant, slave, or one who serves. In this context, Solomon uses it to express profound humility and submission to God. It's not merely a title but a declaration of his posture and dependence, signifying that his kingship is not autonomous but a stewardship under God's ultimate authority. This self-designation sets the tone for his entire prayer, emphasizing his recognition that he is accountable to the divine King.
* **Chosen (Hebrew, _bachar_):** The Hebrew verb בָּחַר (`bachar`) means "to choose, select, or elect." Its use here emphasizes the divine initiative in establishing Israel as God's special people. This election is foundational to Israel's identity and covenant relationship with Yahweh, underscoring that their existence and prosperity are a result of God's sovereign grace and purpose, not their own merit or strength. Solomon's acknowledgment of this divine choice highlights his understanding of Israel's unique status.
* **Multitude (Hebrew, _rov_):** The Hebrew noun רֹב (`rov`) refers to a great number, abundance, or multitude. When Solomon states that the people "cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude," he is employing hyperbole to convey the immense size of the Israelite population. This is a direct echo and fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were assured that their descendants would be as numerous as the stars of the sky or the sand on the seashore ([Genesis 15:5](/genesis/15-5 "Genesis 15:5 - Abraham's Descendants as Stars"); [Genesis 22:17](/genesis/22-17 "Genesis 22:17 - Countless Descendants Promised")). Solomon's recognition of this fulfilled promise underscores God's faithfulness and the weight of his responsibility as leader of such a vast nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thy servant [is] in the midst of thy people":** Solomon humbly identifies himself as God's "servant," indicating a posture of submission and a recognition of his delegated authority. He emphasizes his position "in the midst" of the people, signifying his direct engagement with and responsibility for them, not as an aloof ruler but as one intimately involved in their lives and governance. This phrase sets up his need for divine wisdom to effectively lead.
* **"which thou hast chosen":** This clause highlights the unique status of Israel as God's elect nation. It underscores the divine initiative and sovereignty in their formation and identity. Solomon acknowledges that his people are not merely a demographic but a divinely selected entity, implying a sacred trust and a unique covenant relationship with Yahweh.
* **"a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude":** This powerful statement emphasizes the vastness of the Israelite population, fulfilling the ancient promises made to the patriarchs regarding their innumerable descendants. The use of hyperbole ("cannot be numbered nor counted") stresses the immense scale of the nation, underscoring the formidable challenge and profound responsibility of governing such a large and divinely chosen people. It serves to magnify the need for extraordinary wisdom, which Solomon subsequently requests.

#### Literary Devices
Solomon's prayer in [1 Kings 3:8](/1-kings/3-8 "1 Kings 3:8 - Solomon's Humble Acknowledgment of His Role") employs several effective literary devices. **Hyperbole** is prominently used in the phrase "cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude," which exaggerates the actual number of people to emphasize the immense scale and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. This exaggeration effectively conveys the overwhelming nature of the task Solomon faces. The **Parallelism** in "numbered nor counted" reinforces the idea of countlessness, adding rhetorical force to the statement. Furthermore, the self-designation "thy servant" functions as a **Metaphor** for a steward or shepherd, illustrating Solomon's understanding of his role as one who serves under a greater authority (God) and is responsible for God's flock. This humble self-identification contrasts sharply with the typical self-aggrandizement of ancient Near Eastern monarchs, highlighting Solomon's unique, God-centered perspective on leadership.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 3:8 is rich with theological significance, primarily underscoring the nature of God's covenant faithfulness and the proper posture of human leadership. Solomon's recognition of Israel as "thy people which thou hast chosen" directly links to the doctrine of divine election, emphasizing that Israel's identity and existence are rooted in God's sovereign, gracious choice, not their own merit. His acknowledgment of their innumerable multitude celebrates the miraculous fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to His promises across generations. This verse also sets a profound standard for leadership: true authority is derived from God, and the most effective leaders are those who embrace humility, recognizing themselves as servants entrusted with God's people. It is this understanding of divine ownership and human stewardship that prompts Solomon's wise request for an understanding heart, prioritizing the well-being of God's people over personal gain.

* [Deuteronomy 7:6](/deuteronomy/7-6 "Deuteronomy 7:6 - Israel as God's Holy People")
* [Genesis 22:17](/genesis/22-17 "Genesis 22:17 - God's Oath to Abraham of Countless Descendants")
* [Psalm 78:70-72](/psalms/78-70 "Psalm 78:70-72 - God's Choice of David as Shepherd")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Kings 3:8 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, especially those in positions of leadership or influence. Solomon's humble self-identification as "thy servant" reminds us that all authority and gifting ultimately come from God. Whether in our families, workplaces, communities, or churches, we are called to view our roles as stewardship, recognizing that we are "in the midst of God's people" or those whom God has placed in our care. This perspective cultivates humility, preventing pride and fostering a dependency on divine wisdom rather than self-reliance. Furthermore, acknowledging the "great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude" should inspire us to recognize the vastness and preciousness of every individual within God's creation and, specifically, within His church. It calls us to approach our responsibilities with a deep sense of gravity and care, understanding that we are dealing with souls whom God has chosen and loves. This verse challenges us to prioritize the spiritual and practical well-being of others, seeking God's guidance to lead and serve effectively, always remembering that we are merely instruments in His sovereign plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you exercise influence or leadership, and how does Solomon's posture of "thy servant" challenge your approach?**
* **How does recognizing that others are "God's people which thou hast chosen" impact your responsibility and care for them?**
* **What specific "multitude" or group of people has God placed in your life for you to serve, and what wisdom do you need to steward that responsibility well?**
* **How can you cultivate a deeper sense of humility and dependence on God in your daily responsibilities?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Solomon referring to himself as "thy servant"?**

Answer: Solomon's self-designation as "thy servant" (Hebrew: `‘eved`) is highly significant. It signifies a posture of profound humility and submission to God's ultimate authority. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a servant was entirely dependent on their master. By using this term, Solomon acknowledges that his kingship is not by his own power or right but is a delegated responsibility from God. It sets the tone for his entire prayer, demonstrating that he understands his role as a steward accountable to the divine King, rather than an autonomous ruler. This humility is precisely what pleases God and leads to the granting of wisdom, as seen in [1 Kings 3:10-12](/1-kings/3-12 "1 Kings 3:10-12 - God Grants Solomon Wisdom").

**How does this verse connect to God's promises to Abraham?**

Answer: The phrase "a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude" directly echoes and confirms the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham. In [Genesis 12:2](/genesis/12-2 "Genesis 12:2 - God's Promise to Abraham of a Great Nation"), God promised to make Abraham into a great nation. Later, in [Genesis 15:5](/genesis/15-5 "Genesis 15:5 - Abraham's Descendants as Stars") and [Genesis 22:17](/genesis/22-17 "Genesis 22:17 - Countless Descendants Promised"), God swore that Abraham's descendants would be as numerous as the stars of the sky or the sand on the seashore. Solomon's statement in [1 Kings 3:8](/1-kings/3-8 "1 Kings 3:8 - Solomon's Humble Acknowledgment of His Role") is a powerful acknowledgment that this miraculous promise has indeed come to fruition, highlighting God's faithfulness across centuries and generations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Kings 3:8, with Solomon's humble declaration as "thy servant" in the midst of God's chosen, innumerable people, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jesus is the quintessential "Servant of the Lord," as prophesied in Isaiah ([Isaiah 42:1](/isaiah/42-1 "Isaiah 42:1 - The Servant of the Lord"); [Isaiah 53:11](/isaiah/53-11 "Isaiah 53:11 - The Righteous Servant")), who did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Unlike Solomon, who was a servant *of* God, Jesus is the divine Son who perfectly embodies servanthood, demonstrating complete obedience to the Father's will ([Philippians 2:7-8](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ Humbled Himself")). Furthermore, the "people which thou hast chosen" is expanded in the New Testament to include not just physical Israel, but a spiritual multitude from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation, chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world ([Ephesians 1:4](/ephesians/1-4 "Ephesians 1:4 - Chosen in Christ"); [Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Great Multitude from Every Nation")). Jesus is the true Shepherd of this new, countless people, gathering them into His fold ([John 10:16](/john/10-16 "John 10:16 - Other Sheep I Have")). Thus, Solomon's humble recognition of his immense task foreshadows the perfect Servant-King who would truly shepherd God's vast, chosen, and redeemed multitude into eternal life.

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

Genesis 15:5

And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.

Genesis 22:17

That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which [is] upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;

Genesis 13:16

And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can number the dust of the earth, [then] shall thy seed also be numbered.

1 Chronicles 21:2

And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beersheba even to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know [it].

1 Chronicles 21:5

And Joab gave the sum of the number of the people unto David. And all [they of] Israel were a thousand thousand and an hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah [was] four hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword.

1 Chronicles 21:6

But Levi and Benjamin counted he not among them: for the king's word was abominable to Joab.

Deuteronomy 7:6

For thou [art] an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that [are] upon the face of the earth.