1 Kings 3:21

The next morning, when I got up to nurse my son, I discovered he was dead. But when I examined him, I realized that he was not the son I had borne."

Study Bible

And when I got up in the morning
This phrase sets the scene for a pivotal moment of realization. In the Hebrew context, morning often symbolizes new beginnings or revelations. The act of rising in the morning can be seen as a metaphor for awakening to truth or reality. In the biblical narrative, mornings are frequently times when God reveals His will or when significant events unfold, such as the resurrection of Christ. Here, it marks the beginning of a mother's discovery and the unfolding of divine wisdom through Solomon.

to nurse my son
The act of nursing is deeply intimate and nurturing, symbolizing the bond between mother and child. In ancient Israel, nursing was not only a physical act but also a spiritual and emotional connection. The Hebrew culture placed great importance on the family unit, and a mother's role was central to the upbringing and spiritual education of her children. This phrase underscores the natural expectation of care and life, which is starkly contrasted by the discovery of death.

behold, he was dead!
The word "behold" is often used in Scripture to draw attention to something significant or surprising. It is a call to pause and consider the gravity of the situation. The sudden realization of death where life was expected is a profound moment of grief and shock. In the biblical narrative, death is often a symbol of separation and loss, but it also sets the stage for divine intervention and the revelation of truth.

But when I examined him in the morning light
The act of examining in the "morning light" suggests a search for truth and clarity. Light in the Bible is frequently associated with God's presence, truth, and revelation. The morning light here symbolizes the uncovering of deception and the pursuit of justice. It is in the light that truth is revealed, aligning with the biblical theme that God is light and in Him, there is no darkness (1 John 1:5).

I saw that it was not the son I had borne
This realization is a moment of discernment and truth. The phrase "the son I had borne" emphasizes the personal and intimate knowledge a mother has of her child. It speaks to the deep connection and recognition that goes beyond physical appearance. In the broader biblical context, this moment foreshadows the wisdom of Solomon, who will later discern the true mother through divine insight. It highlights the theme of truth prevailing over deceit and the importance of wisdom in leadership and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel known for his wisdom, who is presiding over the case.

2. Two Women
The central figures in this account, both claiming to be the mother of the living child.

3. The Child
The living child who is the subject of the dispute between the two women.

4. Jerusalem
The city where Solomon's court is located, and where this judgment takes place.

5. The Palace
The setting of the event, where Solomon hears the case and delivers his wise judgment.

Teaching Points

The Value of Wisdom
Solomon's ability to discern the truth in a difficult situation underscores the importance of seeking God's wisdom in our own lives.

The Heart's True Intentions
The account reveals how true intentions are often revealed under pressure, encouraging us to examine our own hearts.

God's Justice
This account illustrates God's justice working through Solomon, reminding us that God is the ultimate judge.

The Role of Discernment
Just as Solomon discerned the true mother, we are called to develop discernment in our spiritual and daily lives.

The Power of a Mother's Love
The true mother's willingness to give up her child to save him highlights the sacrificial nature of genuine love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's request for wisdom earlier in 1 Kings 3 prepare him for this moment of judgment?

2. In what ways can we seek and apply God's wisdom in our daily decision-making?

3. How does the account of Solomon's judgment encourage us to trust in God's justice in our own lives?

4. What can we learn from the true mother's actions about the nature of sacrificial love?

5. How can we develop discernment to recognize truth in complex situations, as Solomon did?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:16-28
This passage provides the full context of the account, detailing Solomon's wise judgment.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Highlights the importance of seeking God's wisdom, which Solomon exemplifies.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, reflecting Solomon's request for wisdom earlier in 1 Kings 3.

Hebrews 4:12
Relates to the discernment of truth, akin to Solomon's ability to discern the true mother.