First Reading1 Kings 3:4-13
From the First Book of Kings
4The king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there,for that was the great high place.Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on that altar.5In Gibeon, the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night;and God said, “Ask for what I should give you.”
6Solomon said, “You have shown to your servant David my father great loving kindness,because he walked before you in truth,in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with you.You have kept for him this great loving kindness,that you have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is today.7Now, Lord my God, you have made your servant king instead of David my father.I am just a little child.I don’t know how to go out or come in.8Your servant is among your people which you have chosen,a great people,that can’t be numbered or counted for multitude.9Give your servant therefore an understanding heart to judge your people,that I may discern between good and evil;for who is able to judge this great people of yours?”
10This request pleased the Lord,that Solomon had asked this thing.11God 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,12behold, I have done according to your word.Behold, I have given you a wise and understanding heart,so that there has been no one like you before you,and after you none will arise like you.13I have also given you that which you have not asked,both riches and honor,so that there will not be any among the kings like you for all your days.