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.

2 CHRONICLES 1:12KJV
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2 Chronicles 1:12 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 1:12 mean?

2 Chronicles 1:12 describes God’s response to Solomon’s request for wisdom, promising not only wisdom and knowledge but also extraordinary riches, wealth, and honor, greater than any king before or after him. God is granting Solomon blessings beyond what he asked for, setting him apart among all rulers.

In this verse, God is speaking directly to Solomon after Solomon has asked for wisdom to rule Israel well. Instead of asking for wealth or power, Solomon asked for help to govern wisely, and God rewards this humble request by giving him both what he asked for and much more. The verse highlights God’s generosity and the unique favor shown to Solomon at the start of his reign.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 1:12

  • Wisdom (חָכְמָה, chokhmah): This word means practical skill, insight, and the ability to make good decisions. God’s gift here is not just knowledge but the skill to use it well as a leader.
  • Knowledge (מַדָּע, madda): This refers to understanding or awareness, the kind of information and comprehension needed to rule effectively.
  • Riches (עֹשֶׁר, osher) and Wealth (נְכָסִים, nechasim): These two words together cover both material abundance and lasting possessions, emphasizing the completeness of what God promises.
  • Honour (כָּבוֹד, kavod): This word means glory, respect, or high status. God is promising Solomon a reputation and standing that will be unmatched.

Why 2 Chronicles 1:12 matters

  • This verse clarifies that God values a humble and wise request above selfish desires, and sometimes responds with even greater blessings than asked for.
  • The verse sets the tone for Solomon’s reign, showing that his wisdom and wealth are direct gifts from God, not just personal achievements.
  • It connects to the wider story by explaining why Solomon became so famous and prosperous, and why Israel reached a peak during his rule.

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 1:11 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:
  • 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 1:11 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:
  • 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.

“Wisdom” Hebrew H2451 · used in 141 verses

  • Exodus 28:3 And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron's garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.
  • Job 28:28 And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
  • Proverbs 29:3 Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.