1 kings 3:8 - Your servant is among your people which you have chosen, a great people, that can’t be numbered or counted for multitude.

Generated Verse: 1 kings 3:8

What does "1 kings 3:8" mean?


This verse, 1 Kings 3:8, is part of Solomon's prayer at Gibeon shortly after he becomes king of Israel. It's a humble acknowledgment of his own inadequacy and the enormity of the task before him. Let's break down the meaning:

"Your servant is among your people which you have chosen...": Solomon refers to himself as God's servant. He recognizes that his position as king is not by his own merit or power, but by God's grace and choice. He emphasizes that he is part of the chosen people of Israel, highlighting the special relationship Israel has with God.

"...a great people, that can’t be numbered or counted for multitude.": Solomon emphasizes the vastness of the Israelite population. The phrase "can't be numbered or counted" doesn't necessarily mean the population was literally impossible to count. Instead, it conveys a sense of awe at their size and growth. It highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham to multiply his descendants. It also emphasizes the immense responsibility Solomon bears as their ruler.

In essence, the verse means:

Solomon is acknowledging that he, as God's servant, is tasked with leading a huge and divinely chosen nation. He humbly recognizes the enormity of the task and implicitly asks for God's help in governing such a large and significant people. This humility and recognition of dependence on God set the stage for Solomon's request for wisdom in the following verses.

The verse highlights:

Solomon's humility: He acknowledges his position as a servant of God.
The chosen status of Israel: They are God's chosen people, set apart for a special purpose.
The size and importance of the nation: It's a vast and significant population.
Solomon's awareness of the challenge ahead: Governing such a large and important nation requires divine assistance.