God said to Solomon, “Since this was in your heart instead of requesting riches or wealth or honor for yourself or death for your enemies—and since you have not even requested long life but have asked for wisdom and knowledge to govern My people over whom I have made you king—
Here is, I. Solomon's great prosperity, Ch2 1:1. Though he had a contested title, yet, God being with him, he was strengthened in his kingdom; his heart and hands were strengthened, and his interest in the people. God's presence will be our strength. II. His great piety and devotion.
Commenting on 2 Chronicles 1:1-12
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: (g) That is, to be avenged on your enemies.
2Ch 1:11-13 The divine promise. Here עשׁר is strengthened by the addition נכסים, treasures (Jos 22:8; Ecc 5:18; Ecc 6:2). תּשׁפּט אשׁר, ut judicare possis. In general, the mode of expression is briefer than in 1Ki 3:11-13, and the conditional promise, “long life” (1Ki 3:14), is omitted, because Solomon did not fulfil the condition, and the promise was not fulfilled.
Commenting on 2 Chronicles 1:11-13