What is the meaning of 1 Kings 2:16? So now I have just one request of you Adonijah frames his plea as modest, hoping to lower Bathsheba’s guard. • Earlier he had openly tried to seize the throne (1 Kings 1:5-10), so this “one request” is anything but innocent. • Similar “single request” language is used by Esther when interceding for her people (Esther 5:3), showing how petitioners often packaged big goals in simple words. • Scripture repeatedly warns that words can mask motives (Proverbs 26:24-26), a truth that will soon be exposed here. Do not deny me He presses for an unconditional promise before revealing what he wants. • Jacob’s sons used the same appeal when bargaining over Joseph’s remains (Genesis 50:25). • Delilah demanded, “Tell me the secret of your strength…do not deceive me” (Judges 16:15), illustrating how repeated urgency can cloak manipulation. • Jesus, by contrast, encourages transparent asking without hidden agendas (Matthew 7:7-8). State your request Bathsheba answers calmly, refusing to commit until she hears the details. • Her measured reply echoes David’s own habit of inquiring before acting (2 Samuel 2:1). • Proverbs 18:13 reminds us that only a fool answers before listening; Bathsheba models the wiser path. • As queen mother she carries influence (1 Kings 2:19), yet she first gathers full information—an example of godly prudence. She told him The narrative notes Bathsheba’s readiness to listen, setting the stage for Adonijah’s true aim—marriage to Abishag (1 Kings 2:17). • In ancient courts, a royal concubine equaled a claim to the throne (2 Samuel 16:21-22), so Bathsheba’s compliance would endanger Solomon. • God’s sovereignty over kingship is again in view: though Adonijah schemes, the Lord preserves the line He has chosen (2 Samuel 7:12-16). summary Adonijah’s carefully worded request shows how ambition dresses itself in humility. Bathsheba’s cautious reply models listening before promising. The verse reminds us that hidden motives collide with God’s unchanging plan, and that wise believers test every request against the clear purposes revealed in Scripture. |
    |