What is the meaning of 1 Kings 1:36? “Amen,” replied Benaiah son of Jehoiada • Benaiah’s first word is an unhesitating “Amen,” a public declaration that he fully agrees with David’s command to seat Solomon on the throne (1 Kings 1:32–35). • In Scripture “Amen” signals wholehearted assent to God-given truth (De 27:15; 1 Chronicles 16:36; Nehemiah 5:13; 2 Corinthians 1:20). By echoing that pattern, Benaiah is saying, “I stand with God’s plan.” • The verse underscores his loyalty: while Adonijah gathered conspirators, Benaiah “did not join Adonijah” (1 Kings 1:8). His “Amen” now publicly aligns him with the rightful king. • He models how believers respond when God’s Word is made plain—no delay, no caveat, just a clear, faith-filled “So be it.” “May the LORD, the God of my lord the king, • Benaiah shifts from his own affirmation to prayer, appealing to “the LORD,” the covenant name that anchors David’s dynasty (2 Samuel 7:12–16; Psalm 89:3–4). • By adding “the God of my lord the king,” he honors David while reminding everyone that even the king bows to a higher throne (Psalm 72:1; Proverbs 21:1). • The phrase binds national stability to divine faithfulness: if Solomon is to reign well, it must be because the LORD upholds him (1 Samuel 17:45; 1 Kings 2:3–4). • For us, it illustrates intercession that submits every earthly authority to God’s supremacy (Romans 13:1; 1 Timothy 2:1–2). so declare it • Benaiah asks God to “declare” (literally, to confirm or ratify) what David has spoken. Human decree is not enough; lasting success requires God’s own word of endorsement (1 Kings 1:37; 8:26; Isaiah 55:11). • The request mirrors promises like Jeremiah 1:12, where the LORD watches over His word to perform it. Benaiah trusts that the same God who chose David will now actively install Solomon (1 Kings 1:48; 1 Chronicles 29:23–25). • The clause teaches believers to seek God’s consummating “Yes” over every plan. Without it, even the best intentions falter (Psalm 127:1; James 4:15). summary Benaiah’s brief response blends agreement, prayer, and dependence. He first aligns himself with David’s proclamation (“Amen”), then invokes the covenant-keeping LORD as the ultimate authority, finally pleading for God’s own confirmation. The verse shows that true support for leadership is rooted in submission to God’s revealed will, confident that He alone can establish and sustain the throne. |
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