1 Kings 1:2

So his servants said to him, "Let us search for a young virgin for our lord the king, to attend to him and care for him and lie by his side to keep him warm."

Study Bible

So his servants said to him
The phrase indicates the initiative taken by King David's servants. In the Hebrew context, "servants" (עֲבָדִים, 'avadim) often refers to those who are in a position of trust and responsibility. These are not mere menial workers but trusted advisors and attendants who are concerned for the king's well-being. Historically, this reflects the hierarchical structure of ancient Israelite society, where the king's court played a crucial role in governance and personal care.

Let us search for a young virgin
The term "young virgin" (נַעֲרָה בְתוּלָה, na'arah betulah) is significant. In ancient Israel, virginity was highly valued, symbolizing purity and suitability for marriage. The search for a virgin underscores the cultural and religious importance of purity, as well as the need for someone who could be trusted in close proximity to the king. This reflects the broader biblical theme of purity and holiness, which is a recurring motif throughout Scripture.

for my lord the king
The phrase "my lord the king" (אֲדֹנִי הַמֶּלֶךְ, adoni hamelech) is a term of respect and honor. It acknowledges the king's authority and status. In the biblical narrative, David is not just a political leader but also a spiritual figure, chosen by God. This phrase reflects the deep respect and loyalty that his servants have for him, recognizing his God-given role as the leader of Israel.

She will attend him and be his caregiver
The role of "caregiver" (שׁוֹכֶבֶת, shochevet) is one of service and support. In the context of ancient Near Eastern culture, attending to the king's needs was a position of honor and responsibility. This reflects the biblical principle of servanthood, where greatness is often equated with service to others, as seen in the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.

She will lie beside him
The act of lying beside the king (תִּשְׁכַּב בְּחֵיקוֹ, tishkav becheiko) is both practical and symbolic. Practically, it was a means to provide warmth, as body heat was a natural remedy for coldness. Symbolically, it represents intimacy and care, though not necessarily sexual. This reflects the biblical understanding of companionship and the importance of human connection, especially in times of vulnerability.

so that my lord the king may stay warm
The concern for warmth (יֵחַם, yecham) is a practical solution to an aging king's physical needs. In the biblical narrative, warmth is often associated with life and vitality. The servants' desire to keep David warm is not just about physical comfort but also about preserving his life and strength. This reflects the biblical theme of life as a precious gift from God, to be cherished and protected.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The aging king of Israel, who is experiencing physical weakness and needs care.

2. Servants of King David
The individuals who suggest finding a young virgin to care for the king.

3. Young Virgin
A proposed solution to attend to King David, providing warmth and care.

4. Jerusalem
The city where King David resides and where these events take place.

5. Abishag the Shunammite
Although not mentioned in this specific verse, she is the young virgin chosen to care for David, introduced in the following verses.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Care in Old Age
As King David aged, he required assistance, reminding us of the importance of caring for the elderly in our communities and families.

Cultural Practices and Solutions
The suggestion to find a young virgin reflects cultural norms of the time. Understanding these practices helps us interpret biblical accounts within their historical context.

God's Provision through People
God often provides for our needs through others, as seen in the servants' initiative to care for David. We should be open to both giving and receiving help.

The Role of Servants and Advisors
The servants' proactive approach highlights the value of wise and caring advisors in leadership and personal life.

Physical and Emotional Needs
The passage underscores the importance of addressing both physical and emotional needs, as David required warmth and companionship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the care provided to King David reflect the biblical principle of honoring and caring for the elderly?

2. In what ways can we apply the servants' initiative in seeking solutions to challenges in our own lives?

3. How do cultural practices in biblical times inform our understanding of this passage, and how can we discern which practices are applicable today?

4. What are some ways we can be proactive in providing for the needs of those around us, as David's servants did?

5. How does this passage encourage us to seek and accept help from others, and what other scriptures support this idea?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24
The search for a wife for Isaac parallels the search for a young woman to serve King David, highlighting the cultural practice of seeking suitable individuals for specific roles.

2 Samuel 5:4
Provides context on King David's age and reign, emphasizing his need for care in his later years.

Ecclesiastes 4:11
Discusses the benefits of companionship and warmth, which relates to the practical solution proposed by David's servants.