Bible moment
The Bible moment
In 1 Kings 3:3–28, Solomon loves the LORD and serves as king. At Gibeon, the LORD appears to him in a dream and invites him to ask for what he wants. Solomon asks for an understanding heart so he can govern God’s people and discern good from evil. The LORD is pleased with this unselfish request, gives Solomon exceptional wisdom, and also gives him riches and honor. God promises long life if Solomon walks in His ways and keeps His commandments. Solomon later shows this wisdom when two women from the same house come to his court. Each claims the living child, and one child has died. Their accounts conflict, with no other witness presented.
Look closely
What children can notice
Two unnamed women from the same house bring a disagreement before Solomon’s court. They each point toward the living child and make conflicting claims, while the sensitive fact that one child has died is communicated without showing the dead child.
Talk together
Talk about it
- Why did Solomon need wisdom in this difficult judgment?
- How did compassion help reveal the child’s mother?
For families, church, and class
Use this page
Read this passage gently, explaining that one child had died without describing details. Emphasize that Solomon’s proposed division was only a test and that the living child was not harmed. Invite children to discuss wisdom, compassion, fair judgment, and serving others. Use the scene for Sunday school, family reading, or classroom conversation.
Source note
From this passage
1 Kings 3:16-22 · Solomon’s Wisdom
Two unnamed women from the same house bring a disagreement before Solomon’s court. They each point toward the living child and make conflicting claims, while the sensitive fact that one child has died is communicated without showing the dead child.
