According to the Old Testament, at which city did Solomon ask God for wisdom?

The story behind the answer

According to the Old Testament, Solomon asked God for wisdom at Gibeon.

After becoming king, Solomon went to Gibeon, described in 1 Kings as the great high place, and offered sacrifices there. During the night, God appeared to him in a dream and invited him to request a gift. Solomon asked for an understanding heart so that he could govern the people and distinguish right from wrong.

The request pleased God because Solomon did not ask for long life, riches, or victory over enemies. The account says that God granted him exceptional wisdom and also promised riches and honor. Solomon’s judgment between two women who both claimed the same baby is presented soon afterward as evidence of that wisdom.

Jerusalem became central to Solomon’s reign when he built the Temple there, but the wisdom request itself is located at Gibeon. That distinction is the key detail in this episode.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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