What is the meaning of 1 Kings 2:21? So Bathsheba said, • Bathsheba is acting as a mediator between Adonijah and King Solomon (1 Kings 2:13). • Her words are reported exactly, underscoring Scripture’s reliability. • As Solomon’s mother (1 Kings 1:11), she carries influence, yet her primary allegiance is to the king God has placed on the throne (Proverbs 31:1–2). • In relaying the request, she demonstrates respect for Solomon’s authority, approaching him seated at his right hand (1 Kings 2:19–20), a pattern that points forward to how petitions are brought before a sovereign (cf. Esther 5:1–2). “Let Abishag the Shunammite be given • Abishag had served King David in his final days (1 Kings 1:3–4). Though Scripture states David “had no relations with her,” she was still regarded as part of the royal harem, a symbol of the kingdom (2 Samuel 12:8). • “Be given” echoes earlier biblical scenes where possession of a king’s concubine signified a claim to his throne: – Abner and Rizpah (2 Samuel 3:7–10) – Absalom and David’s concubines (2 Samuel 16:21–22) • In Israel’s monarchy, the royal household belonged exclusively to the reigning king (2 Samuel 12:8). Any transfer without the king’s consent challenged God-ordained order (Ecclesiastes 8:2–4). to your brother Adonijah as his wife.” • Adonijah had recently attempted to seize the throne (1 Kings 1:5–10) and only survived by pledging loyalty to Solomon (1 Kings 1:52). • By requesting Abishag, he masks renewed ambition under the guise of marriage. Solomon interprets it rightly: “Ask for him the kingdom also” (1 Kings 2:22). • Bathsheba’s use of “your brother” highlights familial ties, yet Scripture shows that brotherhood never overrides divine appointment (Genesis 4:8; Matthew 12:50). • The request exposes Adonijah’s heart; Solomon’s subsequent judgment fulfills David’s charge to eliminate threats to the throne (1 Kings 2:1–4, 24–25). summary 1 Kings 2:21 records Bathsheba faithfully conveying Adonijah’s petition. What seems a simple matrimonial request actually revives a political plot: gaining Abishag—a former royal consort—would bolster Adonijah’s claim to David’s throne. Solomon’s discernment and swift action protect God’s chosen kingly line, illustrating that every detail of Scripture, even one verse, upholds divine sovereignty, warns against subtle rebellion, and confirms the unassailable nature of God’s established authority. |
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