"My lord," she replied, "you yourself swore to your maidservant by the LORD your God: 'Surely your son Solomon will reign after me, and he will sit on my throne.' She said to himThis phrase introduces Bathsheba, the mother of Solomon, as the speaker. In the historical context, Bathsheba approaches King David with a sense of urgency and respect. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often conveys not just speaking but also a declaration or proclamation, indicating the seriousness of her words. Bathsheba's approach is both strategic and respectful, acknowledging the authority of David while reminding him of his past promises. My lord
The term "lord" (אֲדֹנִי, 'adoni) is a title of respect and submission. Bathsheba uses this term to address King David, recognizing his authority and position. In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, such a term would be used to show deference and honor, especially when making a significant request or reminder. you yourself swore
The act of swearing (שָׁבַע, shaba) in ancient Israel was a solemn vow, often invoking God as a witness. Bathsheba reminds David of his oath, emphasizing the personal commitment he made. This highlights the seriousness of oaths in biblical times, where breaking a vow was not only a personal failure but also a spiritual transgression. to your maidservant
By referring to herself as a "maidservant" (אֲמָתֶךָ, 'amatecha), Bathsheba humbles herself before David, acknowledging her position in relation to the king. This term reflects the social hierarchy and the expected humility of those approaching the king, even when they have a close relationship, as Bathsheba did. by the LORD your God
Invoking the name of the LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh) adds divine weight to the oath. It underscores the belief that God is the ultimate witness and enforcer of promises. This phrase reflects the theocentric worldview of ancient Israel, where God was central to all aspects of life, including governance and personal vows. Surely your son Solomon shall reign after me
The certainty of the word "surely" (כִּי, ki) emphasizes the assuredness of the promise. Bathsheba is not merely hopeful but confident in the promise made. The mention of "your son Solomon" highlights the specific nature of the promise, focusing on Solomon's divine right to the throne, as opposed to other potential heirs. and he shall sit on my throne
The throne symbolizes authority and kingship. To "sit on my throne" (יֵשֵׁב עַל-כִּסְאִי, yeshev al-kisi) is to assume the role of king, with all its responsibilities and privileges. This phrase underscores the transfer of power and the continuation of David's legacy through Solomon. It also reflects the divine plan, as Solomon's reign was part of God's covenantal promise to David, ensuring a lasting dynasty. Persons / Places / Events 1. BathshebaThe mother of Solomon, Bathsheba approaches King David to remind him of his promise regarding Solomon's succession to the throne. 2. King DavidThe aging king of Israel, who had previously sworn that Solomon would succeed him as king. 3. SolomonThe son of David and Bathsheba, who is promised the throne of Israel. 4. AdonijahDavid's son who attempts to usurp the throne, prompting Bathsheba's intervention. 5. The Throne of IsraelThe symbol of divine authority and leadership over God's chosen people. Teaching Points The Importance of Keeping PromisesDavid's oath to Bathsheba underscores the biblical principle of faithfulness to one's word, reflecting God's own faithfulness to His promises. God's Sovereignty in LeadershipDespite human attempts to alter God's plans (as seen in Adonijah's actions), God's purposes prevail, reminding us to trust in His sovereign will. The Role of AdvocacyBathsheba's bold approach to David serves as a model for advocating for justice and truth, especially when aligned with God's promises. The Significance of Divine AppointmentSolomon's anointing as king illustrates the importance of recognizing and respecting God's chosen leaders in our lives. The Influence of Godly CounselBathsheba's influence on Solomon highlights the impact of godly counsel and mentorship in shaping future leaders. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Bathsheba's reminder to David about his promise reflect the importance of accountability in our commitments today? 2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the events leading up to Solomon's kingship, and how does this encourage us in our own lives? 3. How can Bathsheba's advocacy for Solomon inspire us to stand up for truth and justice in our communities? 4. What lessons can we learn from the contrast between Solomon's divine appointment and Adonijah's self-promotion? 5. How can we apply the principle of seeking and giving godly counsel in our relationships and leadership roles? Connections to Other Scriptures 2 Samuel 7God's covenant with David, promising that his lineage would continue to rule, which sets the context for Solomon's promised kingship. 1 Chronicles 22David's preparation for Solomon's reign, highlighting God's choice of Solomon to build the temple. Proverbs 31Traditionally attributed to Solomon, possibly reflecting the wisdom imparted by his mother, Bathsheba. People Abiathar, Abishag, Absalom, Adonijah, Bathsheba, Benaiah, Cherethites, David, Haggith, Jehoiada, Joab, Jonathan, Kerethites, Nathan, Pelethites, Rei, Shimei, Solomon, Zadok, ZeruiahPlaces En-rogel, Gihon, Jerusalem, Serpent's StoneTopics Assuredly, Handmaid, Hast, Kingdom, Maidservant, Oath, Reign, Saying, Seat, Seated, Servant, Sit, Solomon, Surely, Swarest, Swear, Swore, Sworn, Throne, TrulyDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Kings 1:5-53 5087 David, reign of 1 Kings 1:17-35 5581 throne Library David Appointing Solomon
'Then king David answered and said, Call me Bath-sheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29. And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30. Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31. Then Bath-sheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureGihon, the Same with the Fountain of Siloam.
I. In 1 Kings 1:33,38, that which is, in the Hebrew, "Bring ye Solomon to Gihon: and they brought him to Gihon"; is rendered by the Chaldee, "Bring ye him to Siloam: and they brought him to Siloam." Where Kimchi thus; "Gihon is Siloam, and it is called by a double name. And David commanded, that they should anoint Solomon at Gihon for a good omen, to wit, that, as the waters of the fountain are everlasting, so might his kingdom be." So also the Jerusalem writers; "They do not anoint the king, but …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Adonijah
BY REV. ALFRED ROWLAND, D.D., LL.B. It is notorious that the sons of devout men sometimes prove a curse to their parents, and bring dishonour on the cause of God. When Eve rejoiced over her first-born, she little suspected that passions were sleeping within him which would impel him to slay his own brother; and the experience of the first mother has been repeated, though in different forms, in all lands and in all ages. Isaac's heart was rent by the deceit of Jacob, and by the self-will of Esau. …
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known Whether Prayer Should be Vocal?
Objection 1: It would seem that prayer ought not to be vocal. As stated above [3025](A[4]), prayer is addressed chiefly to God. Now God knows the language of the heart. Therefore it is useless to employ vocal prayer. Objection 2: Further, prayer should lift man's mind to God, as stated above (A[1], ad 2). But words, like other sensible objects, prevent man from ascending to God by contemplation. Therefore we should not use words in our prayers. Objection 3: Further, prayer should be offered to God …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica The Reign of David.
2 Sam.; 1 Chron. Chs. 11-29; 1 K 1:1-2:11. His Reign over Judah. The reign of David is divided into two parts. The first part was over Judah, with the capitol at Hebron, and lasted seven and one-half years. During this period Ishbosheth, son of Saul, reigned over Israel in the North. It is probable that both of these kings were regarded as vassals of the Philistines and paid tribute. On account of rival leaders, there was constant warfare between these two rival kings. The kingdom of Judah, however, …
Josiah Blake Tidwell—The Bible Period by Period The Fact of the Redeemer's Return was Typified in the Lives of Joseph and Solomon.
In the Old Testament there are numerous references to the Second Coming of Christ, references both direct and typical, but in every instance it was His return to the earth which was in view. The secret coming of Christ into the air, to catch up the saints to Himself, was an event quite unknown to the Old Testament prophets, an event kept secret until revealed by God to the apostle Paul who, when writing to the Corinthians upon this particular aspect of our subject, said, "Behold, I show you a mystery …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return Of Justification by Faith. Both the Name and the Reality Defined.
Sections. 1. Connection between the doctrine of Justification and that of Regeneration. The knowledge of this doctrine very necessary for two reasons. 2. For the purpose of facilitating the exposition of it, the terms are explained. 1. What it is to be justified in the sight of God. 2. To be justified by works. 3. To be justified by faith. Definition. 3. Various meanings of the term Justification. 1. To give praise to God and truth. 2. To make a vain display of righteousness. 3. To impute righteousness …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents
"Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it."--Prov. 22:6. I SUPPOSE that most professing Christians are acquainted with the text at the head of this page. The sound of it is probably familiar to your ears, like an old tune. It is likely you have heard it, or read it, talked of it, or quoted it, many a time. Is it not so? But, after all, how little is the substance of this text regarded! The doctrine it contains appears scarcely known, the duty it puts …
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men
WHEN St. Paul wrote his Epistle to Titus about his duty as a minister, he mentioned young men as a class requiring peculiar attention. After speaking of aged men and aged women, and young women, he adds this pithy advice, "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded" (Tit. 2:6). I am going to follow the Apostle's advice. I propose to offer a few words of friendly exhortation to young men. I am growing old myself, but there are few things I remember so well as the days of my youth. I have a most …
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times Christ a Complete Saviour:
OR, THE INTERCESSION OF CHRIST, AND WHO ARE PRIVILEGED IN IT. BY JOHN BUNYAN Advertisement by the Editor. However strange it may appear, it is a solemn fact, that the heart of man, unless prepared by a sense of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, rejects Christ as a complete Saviour. The pride of human nature will not suffer it to fall, as helpless and utterly undone, into the arms of Divine mercy. Man prefers a partial Saviour; one who had done so much, that, with the sinner's aid, the work might be …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 1 Kings 1:17 NIV1 Kings 1:17 NLT1 Kings 1:17 ESV1 Kings 1:17 NASB1 Kings 1:17 KJV
1 Kings 1:17 Commentaries
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