The first book of Kings begins with the end of the reign and life of the great King David. Bathsheba and the prophet Nathan team up to thwart the ambition of Adonijah and ensure that David appoints Solomon as his successor. David instructs Solomon that he must seek revenge on those who previously wronged David, but whom David had promised not to personally harm. Solomon therefore orders the deaths of Joab and Shimei. This reminds me of the penultimate scene in that great movie The Godfather, when Michael Corleone "settles all the family business" after his father has died.
Adonijah brings about his own death as well by asking permission to marry one of Solomon's concubines--a request that apparently signaled his lack of loyalty to King Solomon. I say apparently, as I rely on a note in my Bible, not being familiar with the politics of concubines.
The Lord comes to Solomon in a dream and offers him anything he desires. Solomon chooses "an understanding heart to judge [God's] people and to distinguish right from wrong." God grants his request:
I give you a heart so wise and understanding that there has never been anyone like you up to now, and after you there will come no one to equal you.
Solomon's special gift is wisdom. Yet, contrary to what I had always assumed, the words make it clear that this special gift "resides" in his heart, not his brain. An understanding heart--not merely an elevated judgment or intelligence. Solomon puts his gift to good use in the famous story of the two women who claim to be mother to the same baby.
Solomon resolves to build a great temple to house the ark. He makes an agreement with Hiram, king of Tyre, for the supplies he needs. Even Hiram recognizes Solomon's greatness, and how it gives glory to God:
Blessed be the Lord this day, who has given David a wise son to rule his numerous people.
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