And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king:

2 CHRONICLES 1:11KJV
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2 Chronicles 1:11 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 1:11 mean?

2 Chronicles 1:11 records God’s response to Solomon, saying that because Solomon asked for wisdom and knowledge to govern the people rather than for riches, honor, long life, or the defeat of his enemies, God is pleased with his request. The verse highlights Solomon’s priorities and God’s recognition of his motives.

In this scene, God is speaking directly to Solomon after Solomon has become king. Solomon has just offered sacrifices at Gibeon, and God appears to him, inviting him to ask for whatever he wants. Instead of asking for personal gain or revenge, Solomon asks for the ability to judge (lead) God’s people well, showing humility and a sense of responsibility.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 1:11

  • "Heart" (לֵבָב, levav): This word refers to the inner self or intentions. God points out that Solomon’s true desire came from deep within, not just outward words.
  • "Wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokhmah) and "knowledge" (מַדָּע, madda): These words show that Solomon asked for practical skill and understanding, not just facts but the ability to apply them in leadership.
  • "Judge" (שָׁפַט, shafat): This word means to govern or make decisions. Solomon’s request was about serving the people well, not about personal benefit.

Why 2 Chronicles 1:11 matters

  • This verse clarifies that God values motives and intentions, not just the content of a request. Solomon’s heart (levav) is what sets his request apart.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of wisdom and knowledge (chokhmah and madda) in leadership, rather than power or wealth.
  • 2 Chronicles 1:11 sets up the rest of Solomon’s story, showing why he becomes known for wisdom and how God’s blessing is tied to his priorities as a ruler.

Where else these words appear

“wealth” Hebrew H5233 · used in 5 verses

  • Joshua 22:8 And he spake unto them, saying, Return with much riches unto your tents, and with very much cattle, with silver, and with gold, and with brass, and with iron, and with very much raiment: divide the spoil of your enemies with your brethren.
  • 2 Chronicles 1:12 Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.
  • Ecclesiastes 5:19 Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.

“knowledge” Hebrew H4093 · used in 6 verses

  • 2 Chronicles 1:10 Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great?
  • 2 Chronicles 1:12 Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.
  • Daniel 1:4 Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.

“riches” Hebrew H6239 · used in 36 verses

  • Genesis 31:16 For all the riches which God hath taken from our father, that is ours, and our children's: now then, whatsoever God hath said unto thee, do.
  • 2 Chronicles 32:27 And Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honour: and he made himself treasuries for silver, and for gold, and for precious stones, and for spices, and for shields, and for all manner of pleasant jewels;
  • Proverbs 22:1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

“enemies” Hebrew H8130 · used in 139 verses

  • Genesis 24:60 And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou art our sister, be thou the mother of thousands of millions, and let thy seed possess the gate of those which hate them.
  • Esther 9:5 Thus the Jews smote all their enemies with the stroke of the sword, and slaughter, and destruction, and did what they would unto those that hated them.
  • Proverbs 1:29 For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD: