The narrative begins with Solomon, the son of David, who was greatly strengthened in his rule, his kingdom flourishing under his command. The presence of Jehovah, his God, was palpably with him, magnifying his stature immeasurably with divine favor.
King Solomon, in his wisdom, summoned all of Israel, including the leading military officers, the judges, and every noble from across the land. They formed a grand assembly, with him carrying their mandate to the holy site at Gibeon. This sacred location held a tent of meeting crafted by Moses at God’s direction during the wilderness wanderings. However, it was Solomon’s father, King David, who had moved the Ark of God from Kiriath-jearim to Jerusalem, preparing a special tent for it.
The bronze altar, originally made by Bezalel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, was also at Gibeon before the sacred tabernacle of Jehovah. King Solomon and the assembly sought guidance from it, and there, under the watchful eye of Jehovah, Solomon ascended the hallowed steps to the bronze altar and made a grand offering. A sign of his devotion, he offered a thousand animals as burnt sacrifices.
On that pivotal night, God honored Solomon with His divine presence and gave him an incredible opportunity. God appeared to Solomon and said, “Ask for what you want, and I will grant it.” Words reflecting wisdom and humility flowed from Solomon’s lips. He acknowledged the kindness God had shown his father and recognized his place as David’s successor.
“My Lord, God”, Solomon began, “you have made me king over a multitude of people, as numerous as the dust particles of the earth. Grant me wisdom and knowledge so that I can govern these people effectively. For who can judge your people that are so great?”
God’s response testified to Solomon’s character and the request he made. The Almighty was pleased with Solomon’s heart; he didn’t ask for things of temporal value like riches, glory, or long life. Instead, he sought wisdom and knowledge to rule God’s people righteously. For this, God not only granted Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure but also blessed him with unequaled riches and honor.
With these heavenly gifts, Solomon descended from Gibeon back to Jerusalem. The kingdom saw an era of peace and prosperity under his rule. He gathered a formidable army inclusive of a thousand and four hundred chariots and twelve thousand horsemen stationed across various cities with some remaining at the royal court in Jerusalem.
Such was the opulence of his reign, he made gold and silver as common as ordinary stones in Jerusalem, and cedar trees were as abundant as sycamore trees across the country. His horses, the pride of his military might, were imported from Egypt, brought in droves and purchased at handsome prices by his merchants. Chariots and horses were also sold to the kings of the Hittites and the kings of Syria, showcasing the grandeur of Solomon’s reign.
Thus, Solomon, the humble and wise king, led his kingdom to an era of unprecedented peace, prosperity, and righteousness, all of which were testament to the divine blessings bestowed upon him.
