Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom

(1 Kings 3:3–9; Wis 7:7–22a)

9 “O God of my ancestors and Lord of mercy,

who have made all things by your word,

2 and by your wisdom have formed humankind

to have dominion over the creatures you have made,

3 and rule the world in holiness and righteousness,

and pronounce judgment in uprightness of soul,

4 give me the wisdom that sits by your throne,

and do not reject me from among your servants.

5 For I am your servanta the son of your serving girl,

a man who is weak and short-lived,

with little understanding of judgment and laws;

6 for even one who is perfect among human beings

will be regarded as nothing without the wisdom that comes from you.