Translations
Original
Notes
The city of Gibeon was six miles northwest of Jerusalem. Its altar was known as the great high place. It was a major worship site for large sacrifices. Gibeon also hosted the tabernacle (a sacred tent used for worship) (1 Chronicles 16:39–40; 21:29; 2 Chronicles 1:2–6).
The story of God giving wisdom to Solomon is told as a chiasm (a mirrored structure where A and B reflect B' and A'). It highlights Solomon's interaction with the Lord:
A: While Solomon was sacrificing at Gibeon, the Lord appeared to him in a dream (1 Kings 3:4–5).
B: Solomon asked for wisdom to govern his people fairly and effectively (1 Kings 3:6–9).
B’: The Lord agreed to his request and gave him extra blessings (1 Kings 3:10–14).
A’: Solomon woke up from the dream and made more sacrifices to the Lord (1 Kings 3:15).
Solomon God’s Covenant with Israel’s Kings True Success Wisdom
Events
Parallels
People
Solomon: Son of David, king of Israel, known for his wisdom
Places
Gibeon: Hivite city that tricked Joshua into a peace treaty
Glossary
Gibeon, Gibeonites High Place King Kings, Books of First and Second Solomon (Person)
Topics
Children: Solomon Dream of Solomon, Concerning his Choice of Wisdom Gibeon: A City of the Hivites: Solomon Worships At, and offers Sacrifices Gibeon: A City of the Hivites: The Tabernacle Located At High Places: A Term Used to Describe Places of Worship High Places: Gibeon High Places: God Sometimes Worshipped On Prayer: Answered: Solomon, Asking for Wisdom Solomon: His Idolatry