Here is more evidence that God gave Solomon wisdom (Heb. hokmah) as He had promised (3:12). He was one of the outstanding sages of the ancient world.61What Solomon received was the ability to make correct decisions. Even though he possessed this ability he did not always choose to use it. He made some very foolish decisions in his lifetime.
The men of the East (cf. Job 1:3) and Egypt (v. 30) were famous for their wisdom in the ancient world.
Solomon's literary output was prolific (v. 32). His name appears on two of the psalms in the Book of Psalms (Ps. 72; 127), and he also evidently wrote the Books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon.
This chapter shows God's response to Solomon's dedication to Yahweh (3:6-13). Even though Solomon was God's elect he had the opportunity either to respond properly to God's grace and experience further blessing or to respond improperly to it and experience chastening. This is a choice God gives all His elect. Solomon made the wise choice. Remember also the perfect response of Solomon's descendant Jesus Christ.
