1 Kings 3:11

1 Kings 3:11 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself or death for your enemies—but you have asked for discernment to administer justice—

King James Version KJV

And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;

American Standard Version ASV

And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life, neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies, but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern justice;

Bible in Basic English BBE

And God said to him, Because your request is for this thing, and not for long life for yourself or for wealth or for the destruction of your haters, but for wisdom to be a judge of causes;

Free Bible Version FBV

So God told him, “Because you asked for this, and you didn't ask for a long life, or wealth, or the death of your enemies, but instead you asked for understanding to know what is right,

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And God sayde vnto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thy selfe long life, neyther hast asked riches for thy selfe, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies, but hast asked for thy selfe vnderstanding to heare iudgement,

Young's Literal Translation YLT

and God saith unto him, 'Because that thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thee many days, nor asked for thee riches, nor asked the life of thine enemies, and hast asked for thee discernment to understand judgment,

World English Bible WEB

God said to him, “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked for yourself long life, nor have you asked for riches for yourself, nor have you asked for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice,

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And God said to him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thy enemies: but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And the Lord said to Solomon: Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life or riches, nor the lives of thy enemies, but hast asked for thyself wisdom to discern judgment,

Translation for Translators T4T

God said to him, “You did not request that you live for many years or that you become very rich or that you be able to kill all your enemies. Instead, you have requested that I enable you to be wise, in order that you will be able to know and to do what is right while you govern these people.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Kings 3:11

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Kings 3:11 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֜ים אֵלָ֗י/ו יַעַן֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר שָׁאַ֜לְתָּ אֶת הַ/דָּבָ֣ר הַ/זֶּ֗ה וְ/לֹֽא שָׁאַ֨לְתָּ לְּ/ךָ֜ יָמִ֣ים רַבִּ֗ים וְ/לֹֽא שָׁאַ֤לְתָּ לְּ/ךָ֙ עֹ֔שֶׁר וְ/לֹ֥א שָׁאַ֖לְתָּ נֶ֣פֶשׁ אֹיְבֶ֑י/ךָ וְ/שָׁאַ֧לְתָּ לְּ/ךָ֛ הָבִ֖ין לִ/שְׁמֹ֥עַ מִשְׁפָּֽט

וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

אֱלֹהִ֜ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 God N-mp

אֵלָ֗י/ו ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

יַעַן֩ yaʻan H3282 because Conj

אֲשֶׁ֨ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

שָׁאַ֜לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 to ask V-Qal-Perf-2ms

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

הַ/דָּבָ֣ר dâbâr H1697 Chronicles Art | N-ms

הַ/זֶּ֗ה zeh H2088 this Art | Pron

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

שָׁאַ֨לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 to ask V-Qal-Perf-2ms

לְּ/ךָ֜ Prep | Suff

יָמִ֣ים yôwm H3117 day N-mp

רַבִּ֗ים rab H7227 many Adj

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

שָׁאַ֤לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 to ask V-Qal-Perf-2ms

לְּ/ךָ֙ Prep | Suff

עֹ֔שֶׁר ʻôsher H6239 riches N-ms

וְ/לֹ֥א lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

שָׁאַ֖לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 to ask V-Qal-Perf-2ms

נֶ֣פֶשׁ nephesh H5315 soul N-cs

אֹיְבֶ֑י/ךָ ʼôyêb H341 enemy V-Qal | Suff

וְ/שָׁאַ֧לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 to ask Conj | V-Qal-Perf-2ms

לְּ/ךָ֛ Prep | Suff

הָבִ֖ין bîyn H995 to understand V-Hiphil-Inf-a

לִ/שְׁמֹ֥עַ shâmaʻ H8085 to hear Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

מִשְׁפָּֽט mishpâṭ H4941 justice N-ms

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 3:11

וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

אֱלֹהִ֜ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" N-mp

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

אֵלָ֗י/ו ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

יַעַן֩ yaʻan H3282 "because" Conj

This Hebrew word means because or therefore, and is used to show the reason or cause of something, like in a sentence explaining why something happened. It is often translated as because or for in the KJV Bible. This word helps us understand the motivations behind actions.

Definition: conj 1) because, therefore, because that, on account of prep 2) because of, on account of 3) why (with interrogative pron)

Usage: Occurs in 94 OT verses. KJV: because (that), forasmuch ([phrase] as), seeing then, [phrase] that, [phrase] wheras, [phrase] why. See also: Genesis 22:16; Jeremiah 25:8; Psalms 109:16.

אֲשֶׁ֨ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

שָׁאַ֜לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 "to ask" V-Qal-Perf-2ms

To ask or inquire, this Hebrew word is used in the Bible to describe seeking information or requesting something. It can also mean to beg or borrow, and is used in many different contexts throughout the Old Testament. The KJV translates it as ask, beg, or borrow.

Definition: 1) to ask, enquire, borrow, beg 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to ask, ask for 1a2) to ask (as a favour), borrow 1a3) to enquire, enquire of 1a4) to enquire of, consult (of deity, oracle) 1a5) to seek 1b) (Niphal) to ask for oneself, ask leave of absence 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to enquire, enquire carefully 1c2) to beg, practise beggary 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to be given on request 1d2) to grant, make over to, let (one) ask (successfully) or give or lend on request (then) grant or make over to Aramaic equivalent: she.el (שְׁאֵל "to ask" H7593)

Usage: Occurs in 157 OT verses. KJV: ask (counsel, on), beg, borrow, lay to charge, consult, demand, desire, [idiom] earnestly, enquire, [phrase] greet, obtain leave, lend, pray, request, require, [phrase] salute, [idiom] straitly, [idiom] surely, wish. See also: Genesis 24:47; 2 Samuel 8:10; Psalms 2:8.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

הַ/דָּבָ֣ר dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" Art | N-ms

A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.

Definition: This name means word, speaking

Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.

הַ/זֶּ֗ה zeh H2088 "this" Art | Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning this or that, used to point out a specific person or thing. It appears in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms, to indicate something specific. The KJV translates it as he, here, or it.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, another, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 1061 OT verses. KJV: he, [idiom] hence, [idiom] here, it(-self), [idiom] now, [idiom] of him, the one...the other, [idiom] than the other, ([idiom] out of) the (self) same, such (a one) that, these, this (hath, man), on this side...on that side, [idiom] thus, very, which. Compare H2063 (זֹאת), H2090 (זֹה), H2097 (זוֹ), H2098 (זוּ). See also: Genesis 5:1; Exodus 10:17; Numbers 14:16.

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

שָׁאַ֨לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 "to ask" V-Qal-Perf-2ms

לְּ/ךָ֜ "" Prep | Suff

יָמִ֣ים yôwm H3117 "day" N-mp

The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow

Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.

רַבִּ֗ים rab H7227 "many" Adj

This Hebrew word means a chief or captain, someone in charge. It is used in 2 Samuel 23:19 to describe a great and powerful man. The idea is one of leadership and authority.

Definition: adj 1) much, many, great 1a) much 1b) many 1c) abounding in 1d) more numerous than 1e) abundant, enough 1f) great 1g) strong 1h) greater than adv 1i) much, exceedingly

Usage: Occurs in 443 OT verses. KJV: (in) abound(-undance, -ant, -antly), captain, elder, enough, exceedingly, full, great(-ly, man, one), increase, long (enough, (time)), (do, have) many(-ifold, things, a time), (ship-)master, mighty, more, (too, very) much, multiply(-tude), officer, often(-times), plenteous, populous, prince, process (of time), suffice(-lent). See also: Genesis 6:5; 1 Kings 11:1; Psalms 3:2.

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

שָׁאַ֤לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 "to ask" V-Qal-Perf-2ms

לְּ/ךָ֙ "" Prep | Suff

עֹ֔שֶׁר ʻôsher H6239 "riches" N-ms

This Hebrew word means wealth or riches, like the treasures King Solomon had in 1 Kings 10:23. It refers to an abundance of valuable things. The KJV Bible uses it to describe riches and wealth.

Definition: wealth, riches

Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] far (richer), riches. See also: Genesis 31:16; Proverbs 3:16; Psalms 49:7.

וְ/לֹ֥א lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

שָׁאַ֖לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 "to ask" V-Qal-Perf-2ms

נֶ֣פֶשׁ nephesh H5315 "soul" N-cs

The Hebrew word for soul or living being, used in the Bible to describe the essence of a person or animal. It encompasses the ideas of life, breath, and vitality, and is translated as 'soul' or 'creature' in the KJV. This word is central to biblical concepts of humanity and existence.

Definition: 1) soul, self, life, creature, person, appetite, mind, living being, desire, emotion, passion 1a) that which breathes, the breathing substance or being, soul, the inner being of man 1b) living being 1c) living being (with life in the blood) 1d) the man himself, self, person or individual 1e) seat of the appetites 1f) seat of emotions and passions 1g) activity of mind 1g1) uncertain 1h) activity of the will 1h1) uncertain 1i) activity of the character 1i1) uncertain

Usage: Occurs in 683 OT verses. KJV: any, appetite, beast, body, breath, creature, [idiom] dead(-ly), desire, [idiom] (dis-) contented, [idiom] fish, ghost, [phrase] greedy, he, heart(-y), (hath, [idiom] jeopardy of) life ([idiom] in jeopardy), lust, man, me, mind, mortally, one, own, person, pleasure, (her-, him-, my-, thy-) self, them (your) -selves, [phrase] slay, soul, [phrase] tablet, they, thing, ([idiom] she) will, [idiom] would have it. See also: Genesis 1:20; Leviticus 26:43; Judges 18:25.

אֹיְבֶ֑י/ךָ ʼôyêb H341 "enemy" V-Qal | Suff

This Hebrew word means enemy or adversary, referring to someone who hates or opposes another person or nation. It is used to describe personal or national enemies in the Bible.

Definition: 1) (Qal) enemy 1a) personal 1b) national

Usage: Occurs in 275 OT verses. KJV: enemy, foe. See also: Genesis 22:17; 2 Samuel 22:1; Psalms 3:8.

וְ/שָׁאַ֧לְתָּ shâʼal H7592 "to ask" Conj | V-Qal-Perf-2ms

לְּ/ךָ֛ "" Prep | Suff

הָבִ֖ין bîyn H995 "to understand" V-Hiphil-Inf-a

To understand or discern, this verb means to separate mentally and know something with your mind, as seen in Proverbs where it talks about gaining insight.

Definition: 1) to discern, understand, consider 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to perceive, discern 1a2) to understand, know (with the mind) 1a3) to observe, mark, give heed to, distinguish, consider 1a4) to have discernment, insight, understanding 1b) (Niphal) to be discerning, intelligent, discreet, have understanding 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to understand 1c2) to cause to understand, give understanding, teach 1d) (Hithpolel) to show oneself discerning or attentive, consider diligently 1e) (Polel) to teach, instruct 2) (TWOT) prudent, regard

Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: attend, consider, be cunning, diligently, direct, discern, eloquent, feel, inform, instruct, have intelligence, know, look well to, mark, perceive, be prudent, regard, (can) skill(-full), teach, think, (cause, make to, get, give, have) understand(-ing), view, (deal) wise(-ly, man). See also: Genesis 41:33; Psalms 139:2; Psalms 5:2.

לִ/שְׁמֹ֥עַ shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.

Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound

Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.

מִשְׁפָּֽט mishpâṭ H4941 "justice" N-ms

Mishpat means justice or judgment, and is often used to describe God's righteous judgment, as well as human laws and decisions, in books like Deuteronomy and Isaiah.

Definition: : judgement/punishment 1) judgment, justice, ordinance 1a) judgment 1a1) act of deciding a case 1a2) place, court, seat of judgment 1a3) process, procedure, litigation (before judges) 1a4) case, cause (presented for judgment) 1a5) sentence, decision (of judgment) 1a6) execution (of judgment) 1a7) time (of judgment) 1b) justice, right, rectitude (attributes of God or man) 1c) ordinance 1d) decision (in law) 1e) right, privilege, due (legal) 1f) proper, fitting, measure, fitness, custom, manner, plan

Usage: Occurs in 406 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] adversary, ceremony, charge, [idiom] crime, custom, desert, determination, discretion, disposing, due, fashion, form, to be judged, judgment, just(-ice, -ly), (manner of) law(-ful), manner, measure, (due) order, ordinance, right, sentence, usest, [idiom] worthy, [phrase] wrong. See also: Genesis 18:19; 1 Kings 2:3; Psalms 1:5.

Study Notes — 1 Kings 3:11

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
1 Kings 3:11 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 3:11
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 3:11
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 3:11
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 3:11
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 3:11
Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 3:11
Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 3:11
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 3:11
Sermons on 1 Kings 3:11

Context — Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom

9Therefore give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?” 10Now it pleased the Lord that Solomon had made this request.

11So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself or death for your enemies—but you have asked for discernment to administer justice—

12behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been another like you, nor will there ever be. 13Moreover, I will give you what you did not request—both riches and honor—so that during all your days no man in any kingdom will be your equal.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Romans 8:26	In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know how we ought to pray, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words.
2	James 4:2–3	You crave what you do not have; you kill and covet, but are unable to obtain it. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask. And when you do ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may squander it on your pleasures.
3	Proverbs 16:31	Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is attained along the path of righteousness.
4	1 Kings 3:9	Therefore give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?”
5	Psalms 4:6	Many ask, “Who can show us the good?” Shine the light of Your face upon us, O LORD.
6	Matthew 20:21–22	“What do you want?” He inquired. She answered, “Declare that in Your kingdom one of these two sons of mine may sit at Your right hand, and the other at Your left.” “You do not know what you are asking,” Jesus replied. “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” “We can,” the brothers answered.

1 Kings 3:11 Summary

[In this verse, God is responding to Solomon's request for wisdom and discernment to make good decisions as a king. Solomon didn't ask for a long life, riches, or power over his enemies, but instead asked for the ability to judge fairly and wisely, which is similar to what is described in Deuteronomy 1:9-18 as a key characteristic of a good leader. This pleases God, because Solomon is putting the needs of his people first, just like Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves, as seen in Mark 12:31. By seeking wisdom and justice, Solomon is showing that he wants to be a good and fair king, and God promises to give him what he has asked for, as we see in the next verse, 1 Kings 3:12.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Solomon ask God for in this verse?

Solomon asked God for discernment to administer justice, instead of requesting long life, wealth, or death for his enemies, as we see in 1 Kings 3:9 where he asks for an understanding heart to judge God's people and discern between good and evil.

Why did God respond favorably to Solomon's request?

God was pleased with Solomon's request because he prioritized wisdom and justice over personal gain, as seen in 1 Kings 3:10, which says it pleased the Lord that Solomon made this request, similar to the way God was pleased with King David's heart in 1 Samuel 13:14.

What does it mean to ask for discernment to administer justice?

Asking for discernment to administer justice means seeking wisdom to make fair and righteous decisions, as Solomon recognized the importance of this in governing God's people, similar to the wise and just ruler described in Psalm 72:1-2.

How does this verse relate to other biblical teachings on wisdom?

This verse reflects the biblical emphasis on seeking wisdom and prioritizing justice, as seen in Proverbs 1:7, which says the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, and in Proverbs 21:15, which says that justice is a joy to the righteous.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas in my life where I need discernment to make wise and just decisions?
How can I prioritize seeking wisdom and justice in my daily life, just as Solomon did?
What are some ways I can use my gifts and talents to administer justice and care for those around me?
How does Solomon's example encourage me to seek God's wisdom and guidance in my own life?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 3:11

And God said unto him,.... Being yet in a dream: because thou hast asked this thing; wisdom for government: and hast not asked for thyself long life; which is naturally desired by men, and always

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 3:11

And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 3:11

Nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; that God would take away their lives, or put them into thy power to destroy them.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 3:11

1 Kings 3:11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;Ver. 11. And hast not asked for thyself long life.] Which yet most men covet. Neither hast asked riches.] As the many do. Nor hast asked the life of thine enemies.] Which, oh, how sweet is it to vindictive spirits! And God, we see, here taketh distinct notice of that which men most desire.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 3:11

(11) Because thou hast asked.—It is obvious to note this verse as a fulfilment of the Divine law, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and -all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). All these secondary blessings are good, just so far as they conduce to the supreme good, which is the growth of the human nature, by the knowledge of God and by faithfully doing His work on earth, to the perfection designed for it in His wisdom. So long as Solomon used them in subordination to true wisdom, they were a blessing to him; when he made them idols, they became a curse. The connection of these lower gifts with the moral and intellectual gifts of wisdom, is the result of the natural law of God’s Providence, so far as that law overcomes the resistance of evil and folly, still allowed to strive against it.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 3:11

11. to discern judgement] Literally,‘to hear judgement.’ The word is the same as in 1 Kings 3:9, where see note.

Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 3:11

Thine enemies - e. g. Hadad the Edomite 1 Kings 11:14-22 and Rezon the son of Eliadah 1 Kings 11:23-25, whom Solomon might well have wished to remove.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 3:11

11. Understanding to discern judgment — Literally, to know to hear judgment; that is, ability to understand how to hear suits or causes, and dispense justice.

Sermons on 1 Kings 3:11

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	I Kings 3:11 by Chuck Smith	Chuck Smith emphasizes that God desires fellowship with humanity, created out of love, but sin has disrupted this relationship. He explains that living in fellowship with God bring
	The Burdens of Ravenhill - Part 3 (Compilation) by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon transcript, the speaker, Brother Ravenhill, engages in a conversation with a man named Brother Singh about the procedure in his church service. Brother Singh describ
	Interview 1974 by Corrie Ten Boom	This sermon shares the powerful testimony of a woman who endured imprisonment and suffering during World War II, highlighting how God's grace sustained her through the darkest time
	Absolute Surrender by Keith Daniel	In this sermon, the speaker shares two powerful stories that highlight the desperate state of humanity and the need for God's intervention. The first story describes a disturbing e
	The Power of God - Part 1 by Kathryn Kuhlman	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the power of the Holy Spirit and the need for believers to be led by the Spirit. They emphasize the importance of humility and caution again
	Getting to Know the Holy Spirit by David Wilkerson	This sermon focuses on the importance of getting to know the Holy Spirit as described in John 14:16. It emphasizes the ministry of the Holy Spirit, including comfort, sonship, and
	Fresh Power Book Reading Clip by Jim Cymbala	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit in empowering ordinary people to work for Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit enables believers to fulfill God's