Solomon’s Death

As for the other events of Solomon’s reign—all he did and the wisdom he displayed—are they not written in the book of the annals of Solomon?

Solomon Asks for Wisdom

Solomon son of David established himself firmly over his kingdom, for the Lord his God was with him and made him exceedingly great.

Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?”

God said to Solomon, “Since this is your heart’s desire and you have not asked for wealth, possessions or honor, nor for the death of your enemies, and since you have not asked for a long life but for wisdom and knowledge to govern my people over whom I have made you king,

therefore wisdom and knowledge will be given you. And I will also give you wealth, possessions and honor, such as no king who was before you ever had and none after you will have.”

When the queen of Sheba saw the wisdom of Solomon, as well as the palace he had built,

She said to the king, “The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and your wisdom is true.

But I did not believe what they said until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half the greatness of your wisdom was told me; you have far exceeded the report I heard.

How happy your people must be! How happy your officials, who continually stand before you and hear your wisdom!

King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth.

All the kings of the earth sought audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart.

And you, Ezra, in accordance with the wisdom of your God, which you possess, appoint magistrates and judges to administer justice to all the people of Trans-Euphrates—all who know the laws of your God. And you are to teach any who do not know them.

Are not the cords of their tent pulled up, so that they die without wisdom?’

His wisdom is profound, his power is vast. Who has resisted him and come out unscathed?

and disclose to you the secrets of wisdom, for true wisdom has two sides. Know this: God has even forgotten some of your sin.

“Doubtless you are the only people who matter, and wisdom will die with you!

Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?

“To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his.

If only you would be altogether silent! For you, that would be wisdom.

Do you listen in on God’s council? Do you have a monopoly on wisdom?

“Can anyone teach knowledge to God, since he judges even the highest?

What advice you have offered to one without wisdom! And what great insight you have displayed!

By his power he churned up the sea; by his wisdom he cut Rahab to pieces.

Interlude: Where Wisdom Is Found

There is a mine for silver and a place where gold is refined.

But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell?