1 Kings 3

1 Kings 3 is a chapter in the First Book of Kings in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament. It primarily recounts the beginning of Solomon's reign as king of Israel, succeeding his father David. The chapter is significant for a few key events:

• Solomon's Marriage Alliance: The chapter opens with Solomon's marriage to the daughter of the Pharaoh of Egypt, solidifying a political alliance. This is notable as it is one of several foreign marriages Solomon undertakes, which later contributes to religious problems in his kingdom according to later biblical accounts.

• Sacrifices and Solomon's Dream at Gibeon: Solomon travels to Gibeon, a prominent high place for sacrifices, because the Ark of the Covenant was in Jerusalem, but the tabernacle of meeting was in Gibeon. There, he offers a thousand burnt offerings. God appears to Solomon in a dream at night and invites Solomon to ask for whatever he desires.

• Solomon's Request for Wisdom: Rather than asking for wealth, long life, or victory over his enemies, Solomon asks God for wisdom and discernment to govern the people justly. This request pleases God.

• God's Response and Additional Blessings: God grants Solomon not only wisdom but also riches and honor "such as no king has had before [him] and none will have after [him]." God's additional blessings are conditional upon Solomon obeying God's commands.

• The Judgment of Solomon: The chapter concludes with a demonstration of Solomon's wisdom. Two prostitutes come before him, each claiming to be the mother of the same infant. Solomon orders the baby to be cut in half and given to each woman. The true mother is revealed when she begs Solomon to spare the child and give it to the other woman, thus proving her love and maternal instinct. This displays the wisdom and insight God has given Solomon, earning him the respect of the entire nation.