Ask for anything

Solomon inherits the kingdom at its height and God offers him an open request: ask what I shall give you. He could name wealth, long life, or the death of his enemies. He asks for an understanding heart to discern between good and evil, because — he says — I am only a little child, and I do not know how to go out or come in. God is pleased and gives him the wisdom plus everything he did not ask for. The famous test follows: two women, one living baby, and a sword. The real mother gives up her claim rather than see the child cut in half, and Solomon knows her by that. He builds the temple and prays a dedication that keeps admitting the obvious — heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you; how much less this house. Later, wealth and a thousand marriages will do to Solomon what no enemy managed.