Solomon

In a dream, God said to the young king Solomon: “Ask what I shall give thee.”

A Request That Pleased God

Solomon did not ask for money or a long life. Instead he said: “Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people.” God was so pleased with the request that He gave him wisdom like no one else’s, plus glory and riches.

Two women came before King Solomon arguing over a living baby. Each claimed it was hers.

Discovering the Truth

Solomon called for a sword and said: “Divide the living child in two, and give half to the one, and half to the other.” The real mother cried out in tears: “O my lord, give her the living child, and in no wise slay it.” Solomon said: “Give her the living child, and in no wise slay it: she is the mother thereof.” All Israel was amazed at his wisdom.

Solomon gathered skilled craftsmen and choice materials (cedar wood, pure gold) to build a magnificent Temple in Jerusalem.

The Cloud of Glory

At the dedication, when the Ark was placed in the Most Holy Place, the glory of the Lord filled the Temple. Solomon prayed with his hands stretched toward heaven, blessing all the people.

When she heard of Solomon’s fame, the queen of Sheba came from the far south to test him with hard questions.

Beyond All Expectations

Solomon answered all her questions with wisdom. Seeing the order and beauty, the queen said: “the half was not told me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the fame which I heard.” She added: “Blessed be the LORD thy God.”