The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Chronicles 9:23Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

And all the kings of the earth desired to see the face of Solomon, that they might hear the wisdom which God had given in his heart.

Douay-Rheims

וְכֹל֙ מַלְכֵ֣י הָאָ֔רֶץ מְבַקְשִׁ֖ים אֶת־פְּנֵ֣י שְׁלֹמֹ֑ה לִשְׁמֹ֙עַ֙ אֶת־חָכְמָת֔וֹ אֲשֶׁר־נָתַ֥ן הָאֱלֹהִ֖ים בְּלִבּֽוֹ׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

One Church Father comments on this verse

Ambrose of Milan

4th centuryChurch Father

We place our challenges in the hands of the most insightful and seek His guidance rather than relying on others. However, the sound counsel of a just individual surpasses even the wisest advice. The wounds that a true friend inflicts are more beneficial than the flattering words of many (Proverbs 27:6). It is the righteous who possess discernment, while the wise man understands the reasoning; the former assesses the conflict, and the latter identifies the means of argumentation. When these two qualities are combined, the guidance offered will hold exceptional value and will be embraced by all for its wisdom and equity, prompting many to seek the wise counsel of one who embodies both attributes.

Read more (69 words)

Consequently, all the rulers of the world yearned to witness the presence of Solomon and to benefit from his sagacity (1 Kings 10:24; 2 Chronicles 9:23). The Queen of Sheba approached him to challenge him with her inquiries, and she conversed with him about everything weighing on her heart, absorbing all the wisdom that Solomon provided (1 Kings 10:2-3). She did not overlook a single word (2 Chronicles 9:2).

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.