The more I delve into the stories of the Bible, the more I am captivated by the profound social dynamics and deep wisdom contained within just a few lines. I’ve recently been reading the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, which tell the story of King David, and now I’m immersed in the book of 1 Kings, which begins with the legendary reign of his son, Solomon.

King Solomon is known as the wisest king who ever lived. When God appeared to him and offered to grant him anything he desired, Solomon did not ask for wealth or power. Instead, he asked for an understanding heart to govern his people and the wisdom to discern between right and wrong. God was so pleased with this selfless and humble request that He not only gave him wisdom, but also blessed him with incredible riches, honor and favor. He also promised him a long life, provided he remained faithful.

The true test of Solomon’s wisdom came when two women, both living as prostitutes, appeared before him with a complex and emotionally charged case. The plaintiff explained that she and her housemate had both given birth to baby boys, just three days apart. One night, her housemate had accidentally smothered her own baby while asleep and, in a desperate act, secretly swapped the dead infant for the living one. When the plaintiff woke up to nurse her child, she realized the baby in her arms was not her own. The accused woman immediately interjected, vehemently claiming the living baby was hers.

Faced with a dilemma of conflicting testimonies, King Solomon’s judgment was startling. He called for a sword and, once it was brought before him, he declared that the living baby should be cut in two, with half given to each woman. In that dramatic moment, the truth was revealed.

The true mother, overwhelmed with love, immediately pleaded with the king, urging him to give the baby to the other woman as long as the child’s life was spared. The other woman, however, coldly agreed with the king’s judgment, saying, “It shall be neither mine nor yours; divide it!” The king watched and listened. His intention was never to harm the child; the sword was a tool to reveal the true intentions of the heart.