King James Version
What Does 2 Chronicles 1:10 Mean?
“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?”
Context
8
And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his stead.
9
Now, O LORD God, let thy promise unto David my father be established: for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude. like: Heb. much as the dust of the earth
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?
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:
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.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **Give me now wisdom and knowledge.**—*Now wisdom and knowledge give thou me;* a petition co-ordinate with that of 2Chronicles 1:9 : “Now, O Lord God,” &c. The clause answers to 1Kings 3:9. The word rendered “knowledge” (*madda’*) is late, and occurs besides only in Daniel 1:4; Daniel 1:17; Ecclesiastes 10:20.
**That I may go out and come in before this people.**—See 1Kings 3:7; Numbers 27:17; Deuteronomy 31:2.
**For who can judge.**—The simple impf.; Kings has, “who is able to judge?”
**This thy people, that is so great** (*gādôl*)*.—*Kings: “This thy numerous (*kôbēd*) people.” For the king as judge comp. 1Samuel 8:20.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Chronicles 1:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Chronicles 1:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge