1 Kings 1:17

KJV

And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the LORD thy God unto thine handmaid, [saying], Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne.

KJV (with Strong's)

And she said {H559} unto him, My lord {H113}, thou swarest {H7650} by the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} unto thine handmaid {H519}, saying, Assuredly Solomon {H8010} thy son {H1121} shall reign {H4427} after {H310} me, and he shall sit {H3427} upon my throne {H3678}.

Complete Jewish Bible

She answered him, "My lord, you swore by ADONAI your God to your servant, 'Your son Shlomo will be king after me; he will sit on my throne.'

Berean Standard Bible

“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.’

American Standard Version

And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by Jehovah thy God unto thy handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Kings 1:17, Bathsheba urgently confronts the aging King David, reminding him of a solemn, divinely sworn oath concerning their son Solomon's succession to the throne. This pivotal moment occurs amidst the audacious attempt by David's older son, Adonijah, to usurp the kingship, highlighting the critical importance of upholding sacred promises and divine will in the transfer of royal authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a crucial turning point within the opening chapter of [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - The Succession of Solomon"), which details the dramatic events surrounding King David's final days and the succession crisis. The narrative begins by establishing David's extreme old age and physical frailty ([1 Kings 1:1-4](/1_kings/1-1 "David's Old Age")). This vulnerability creates a power vacuum that Adonijah, David's fourth son, attempts to exploit by proclaiming himself king, gathering support from prominent figures like Joab and Abiathar ([1 Kings 1:5-10](/1_kings/1-5 "Adonijah's Usurpation Attempt")). Nathan the prophet, recognizing the danger to God's plan and David's oath, advises Bathsheba to remind David of his promise ([1 Kings 1:11-14](/1_kings/1-11 "Nathan's Counsel to Bathsheba")). Bathsheba's appeal in [1 Kings 1:17](/1_kings/1-17 "Bathsheba Reminds David of His Oath") is immediately followed by Nathan's corroboration ([1 Kings 1:18-27](/1_kings/1-18 "Nathan Confirms Bathsheba's Account")) and David's decisive reaffirmation of Solomon as his successor ([1 Kings 1:28-31](/1_kings/1-28 "David Reaffirms Solomon's Kingship")), setting the stage for Solomon's anointing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, while primogeniture (succession by the firstborn son) was common, it was not an absolute rule, especially when divine choice intervened (e.g., Jacob over Esau, David over his older brothers). Oaths sworn "by the LORD thy God" were considered profoundly sacred and legally binding, carrying immense spiritual weight. Breaking such an oath was not merely a breach of human trust but an offense against God Himself. The "throne" symbolized the ultimate royal authority and legitimacy. The political landscape of ancient Near Eastern monarchies often involved intense maneuvering and intrigue around succession, particularly when a king was old or infirm. The role of prophets like Nathan was critical, as they often served as God's direct voice, influencing royal decisions and ensuring adherence to divine will.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - The Succession of Solomon") and the broader biblical narrative. The central theme is **Divine Sovereignty in Succession**, illustrating that the choice of a king for Israel ultimately rested with God, not human ambition or primogeniture. Bathsheba's reminder of David's oath, sworn by the LORD, underscores the **Binding Nature of Oaths** and the **Importance of Faithfulness to Promises**, especially those made in God's name. It highlights the **Integrity of Leadership**, emphasizing that kings, particularly those divinely appointed, must honor their commitments. Furthermore, the passage subtly reinforces the **Davidic Covenant** ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "God's Covenant with David")), where God promised David an enduring dynasty, with a son to succeed him and establish his kingdom. The political intrigue surrounding Adonijah's actions stands in stark contrast to the divine will for Solomon, demonstrating that God works through human actions and interventions (like Nathan's and Bathsheba's) to achieve His purposes, even amidst human frailty and ambition.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Swarest (Hebrew, _shava'_):** This verb signifies "to swear an oath," often with the implication of invoking a divine being as a witness or guarantor. When an oath is sworn "by the LORD thy God," it elevates the promise from a mere human declaration to a sacred covenant, making it profoundly binding and unbreakable. Bathsheba's use of this word emphasizes the solemnity and divine backing of David's commitment to Solomon.
* **Handmaid (Hebrew, _'amah'_):** While Bathsheba was a queen mother, her self-designation as "thine handmaid" is a strategic and humble appeal. It signifies a position of subservience and dependence, subtly reminding David of his obligation to protect and honor her, and by extension, her son, who was promised the throne. This respectful address also highlights the power dynamics and the proper protocol for approaching a king.
* **Assuredly (Hebrew, _ki_):** This particle, often translated as "surely" or "indeed," serves as an emphatic affirmation. In this context, it reinforces the certainty and unconditionality of the oath David made. It leaves no room for doubt about the divine intention and the king's firm commitment regarding Solomon's succession.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And she said unto him, My lord":** Bathsheba's opening address is one of deep respect and deference, acknowledging David's supreme authority as king. This formal and submissive approach is crucial for gaining his attention and favor, despite the urgency of her message.
* **"thou swarest by the LORD thy God unto thine handmaid":** This is the core of Bathsheba's appeal, a direct and potent reminder of David's solemn vow. The phrase "by the LORD thy God" underscores that the oath was not a casual promise but a divinely witnessed and sanctioned commitment, making its fulfillment a matter of divine honor and integrity. The reference to "thine handmaid" subtly appeals to David's responsibility to those under his care, particularly one to whom he made such a profound promise.
* **"[saying], Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne":** This clause reveals the precise content of the oath. "Assuredly" emphasizes the certainty and unconditionality of the promise. The declaration that "Solomon thy son shall reign after me" directly addresses the succession, while "and he shall sit upon my throne" signifies the legitimate and complete transfer of royal power and authority. This statement directly refutes Adonijah's usurpation, establishing Solomon's rightful claim based on David's divinely sworn word.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several effective **Literary Devices**. **Repetition** is a key technique, as the content of David's oath regarding Solomon's succession is reiterated multiple times throughout [1 Kings 1](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - The Succession of Solomon")—first by Bathsheba, then by Nathan, and finally by David himself. This repetition serves to emphasize the oath's immense importance and binding nature, ensuring that its divine origin and certainty are firmly established in the reader's mind. **Foreshadowing** is also present; the immediate crisis of succession and the need for divine intervention subtly foreshadow the future challenges to the Davidic line, even as it affirms the stability Solomon will initially bring. There is a degree of **Irony** in David's situation: the mighty warrior king, who once displayed such decisive leadership, is now old and seemingly passive, requiring the urgent intervention of others to remind him of his own solemn and divinely backed promises. Finally, Bathsheba's appeal is a powerful example of **Appeal to Authority**, not merely to David's royal authority, but more significantly, to the ultimate authority of "the LORD thy God," by whom David swore.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the theological principle of God's faithfulness to His promises, even when human actors, including kings, might falter or become complacent. David's oath, sworn by the LORD, was not merely a personal commitment but an echo of God's own covenant promise to David regarding his enduring dynasty. The crisis of succession in [1 Kings 1](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - The Succession of Solomon") highlights the tension between human ambition (Adonijah's usurpation) and divine appointment (Solomon's rightful claim). God, through the timely intervention of Nathan and Bathsheba, ensures that His sovereign will prevails, demonstrating that His plans cannot be thwarted by human schemes. The passage underscores the sacredness of oaths made in God's name, reminding us that such vows are not to be taken lightly and carry divine accountability.

* [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "God's Covenant with David"): God's foundational covenant with David, promising an enduring house and a son to succeed him and establish his kingdom forever.
* [Psalm 89:3-4](/psalms/89-3 "God's Oath to David"): A poetic reaffirmation of God's covenant oath to David, emphasizing the eternal nature of his throne and lineage.
* [Hebrews 6:13-18](/hebrews/6-13 "God's Unchanging Promise"): Explains how God, when He made a promise to Abraham, confirmed it with an oath, demonstrating the unchangeable character of His purpose and the certainty of His promises.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of 1 Kings 1:17 offers timeless lessons on the profound importance of integrity, the sanctity of promises, and the consequences of inaction. David, despite his past greatness, had become forgetful or passive, necessitating urgent intervention to uphold his divinely sworn word. This serves as a powerful reminder for us to diligently honor our commitments, especially those made before God, recognizing that our words carry weight and reflect on our character and our relationship with the divine. The passage also highlights the crucial role of wise counsel and courageous advocacy (like Nathan's and Bathsheba's) in reminding leaders and individuals of their responsibilities and guiding them back to God's intended path. In our own lives, we are called to discern God's will amidst competing voices and personal ambitions, trusting that He works through human actions to fulfill His divine purposes, even in moments of chaos or uncertainty. Our faithfulness in upholding our word, both to God and to others, is a testament to our trust in His overarching plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this passage challenge us to honor our commitments, especially those made before God, even when circumstances make them difficult?**
* **In what ways might we, like David, become complacent or forgetful of divine promises or our own sacred vows in our lives?**
* **What role do wise counselors or trusted friends play in helping us remember and act upon God's will when we are distracted or passive?**
* **How can we discern and act upon God's will amidst competing voices, personal ambitions, and the complexities of life?**

### FAQ
**Why was Solomon chosen over Adonijah, who was older?**

Answer: In ancient Israel, while primogeniture (succession by the firstborn son) was common, it was not an absolute or exclusive rule. God's sovereign choice often superseded birth order, as seen with Jacob over Esau, or David over his older brothers. In Solomon's case, his selection was explicitly declared by King David through a solemn oath, which Bathsheba reminds him of in [1 Kings 1:17](/1_kings/1-17 "Bathsheba Reminds David of His Oath"). This oath was not a mere personal preference but was understood to be in accordance with God's divine will, as communicated through Nathan the prophet ([1 Chronicles 22:9-10](/1_chronicles/22-9 "God's Choice of Solomon")). Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne was therefore a usurpation, not just against David's declared intention but against God's chosen successor. God's covenant with David ([2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "The Davidic Covenant")) promised a son who would build the temple and establish an enduring kingdom, which was understood to refer to Solomon.

**What is the significance of "swearing by the LORD thy God"?**

Answer: "Swearing by the LORD thy God" signifies an oath of the highest possible sacredness and binding nature. In ancient Israelite culture, invoking the name of Yahweh (the LORD) in an oath meant that God Himself was called upon as a witness and guarantor of the promise. Breaking such an oath was not merely a human slight but a grave offense against God, incurring divine judgment. It elevated the promise to the level of a covenant, implying that God would uphold or enforce its terms. Bathsheba's reminder of this specific phrasing was a powerful appeal to David's conscience and his relationship with God, underscoring that the promise to Solomon was divinely sanctioned and therefore immutable.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The oath sworn by King David concerning Solomon's succession, as highlighted in [1 Kings 1:17](/1_kings/1-17 "Bathsheba Reminds David of His Oath"), finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Solomon, a son of David who sat upon his father's throne, brought a period of peace and built the first Temple, serving as a type and shadow of the greater Son of David. The divine promise made to David in [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "God's Covenant with David")—that his "seed" would establish an eternal kingdom and build a "house" for God's name—is ultimately fulfilled not in Solomon, whose reign was temporal and flawed, but in Jesus. Jesus is the true and eternal heir to David's throne, the one of whom the angel Gabriel declared, "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end" ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "The Son of David, Jesus")). While Solomon's reign was characterized by initial peace, Christ is the true "Prince of Peace" ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "The Prince of Peace")), whose kingdom is not of this world but is eternal and spiritual. The divine oath to David, ensuring a perpetual dynasty, is perfectly secured in Christ, the "Root and the Offspring of David" ([Revelation 22:16](/revelation/22-16 "Jesus, the Root and Descendant of David")), through whom God's promises of an everlasting kingdom and perfect rule are realized.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Kings 1:13

Go and get thee in unto king David, and say unto him, Didst not thou, my lord, O king, swear unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? why then doth Adonijah reign?

1 Kings 1:30

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.

1 Peter 3:6

Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.

Genesis 18:12

Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?