How does Solomon's response to Bathsheba reflect honoring one's parents biblically? The Setting in 1 Kings 2:19 “ So Bathsheba went to King Solomon to speak to him for Adonijah. And the king rose to meet her, bowed down to her, and sat on his throne. He had a throne brought for the king’s mother, and she sat at his right hand.” (1 Kings 2:19) Honoring Father and Mother: God’s Enduring Command • “Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land…” (Exodus 20:12) • “Honor your father and mother” — which is the first commandment with a promise (Ephesians 6:2) Solomon’s behavior displays obedience to this foundational command even while reigning as Israel’s most powerful earthly authority. A King Who Steps Down: Practical Expressions of Honor Solomon’s four deliberate actions reveal what biblical honor looks like when translated into deeds: • He rises from the throne — showing reverence for his mother’s presence. • He bows before her — a physical sign of humility and respect. • He seats her at his right hand — granting her the highest place of dignity next to him (Psalm 110:1 echoes the same position of favor). • He listens to her request — giving weight to her words (Proverbs 23:22, “Do not despise your mother when she is old”). Contrasting Royal Power and Filial Submission Though king, Solomon willingly subjects his royal dignity to the higher, God-given duty of honoring his parent. His actions teach that earthly status never nullifies the divine order of the Fifth Commandment. Scriptural Echoes of Filial Honor • Joseph honors Jacob by bringing his sons to be blessed (Genesis 48). • Ruth cares for Naomi, forsaking Moab for Israel (Ruth 1:16-17). • Jesus entrusts Mary to John from the cross (John 19:26-27). • “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is attained in the path of righteousness.” (Proverbs 16:31) Living the Principle Today • Rise—acknowledge parents with attentive presence. • Bow—speak and act with humility, avoiding dismissive tones. • Seat—give parents honored space in decisions and celebrations. • Listen—take their counsel seriously, even when not binding. Honoring parents never diminishes adulthood; it fulfills God’s design and invites His promised blessing. |
    |