1 Kings 1:27

Translation
King James Version
Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not shewed it unto thy servant, who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him?
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KJV (with Strong's)
Is this thing H1697 done H1961 by my lord H113 the king H4428, and thou hast not shewed H3045 it unto thy servant H5650, who should sit H3427 on the throne H3678 of my lord H113 the king H4428 after H310 him?
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Complete Jewish Bible
Is this authorized by my lord the king without your having told your servant who would sit on the throne of my lord the king after him?"
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Berean Standard Bible
Has my lord the king let this happen without informing your servant who should sit on the throne after my lord the king?”
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American Standard Version
Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not showed unto thy servants who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him?
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World English Bible Messianic
Is this thing done by my lord the king, and you haven’t shown to your servants who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him?”
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Is this thing done by my lord the King, and thou hast not shewed it vnto thy seruant, who should sitte on the throne of my lorde the King after him?
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Young's Literal Translation
if from my lord the king this thing hath been, then thou hast not caused thy servant to know who doth sit on the throne of my lord the king after him.'
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See also
1 Kings 1:24John 15:152 Kings 4:27
See on the biblical-era map
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of Solomon
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of Solomon View full PDF
Solomon and Adonijah
Solomon and Adonijah View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 8,745 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

In 1 Kings 1:27, Bathsheba masterfully employs a rhetorical question to King David, subtly yet powerfully challenging the legitimacy of Adonijah's self-proclaimed kingship. Her words carry the profound implication that such a pivotal decision—the designation of the next monarch—could not possibly have been made by David without her knowledge, especially given his prior solemn oath concerning Solomon. This verse serves as a critical turning point, strategically designed to awaken the aging David to the unfolding crisis and compel him to fulfill his divine promise regarding the royal succession.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed at a momentous juncture in the narrative of David's final years, specifically during his advanced age and physical decline, as vividly portrayed in 1 Kings 1. The chapter opens by detailing David's extreme frailty, which inadvertently creates a dangerous power vacuum. Adonijah, David's fourth son, seizes this opportunity, presumptuously declaring himself king and garnering support from influential figures like Joab, the army commander, and Abiathar, the priest, as described in 1 Kings 1:7. Nathan the prophet, a steadfast advisor and guardian of God's covenant promises, recognizes the immediate peril to David's oath concerning Solomon's succession. He devises a shrewd, two-pronged approach: first, he instructs Bathsheba to confront David directly with his unfulfilled promise, and then he follows her into the king's chambers to corroborate her account, as detailed in 1 Kings 1:11-14. Bathsheba's pointed question in verse 27 is the climactic moment of this carefully orchestrated strategy, intended to galvanize David into decisive action.

  • Historical & Cultural Context: Ancient Near Eastern monarchies, including the kingdom of Israel, were frequently plagued by succession crises, particularly when an aging or infirm king failed to clearly designate an heir. While primogeniture—the right of the firstborn son—was a common practice, it was by no means an absolute rule. The reigning king often retained the prerogative to choose his successor, sometimes under the guidance of divine revelation or prophetic counsel. David himself was chosen by God over his elder brothers, as recorded in 1 Samuel 16:6-12. The act of "sitting on the throne" was the quintessential symbol of legitimate royal authority and the official transfer of power. Adonijah's actions—amassing chariots and horsemen, proclaiming himself king, and hosting a celebratory feast, as recounted in 1 Kings 1:5-9—were deliberate attempts to mimic a legitimate enthronement, yet they conspicuously lacked the essential elements of the king's official sanction and, more importantly, divine approval. The involvement of a prophet like Nathan was crucial in such matters, as prophets often served as God's direct intermediaries, ensuring that His will, especially concerning the sacred Davidic covenant, was upheld.

  • Key Themes: This verse profoundly contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of 1 Kings. Foremost among these is the theme of Legitimate Succession, starkly contrasting Adonijah's presumptuous usurpation with the divinely ordained transfer of power to Solomon. Bathsheba's rhetorical question underscores the absolute necessity of a clear, official, and kingly pronouncement for such a monumental event, highlighting the chaos and instability that inevitably arise from ambiguity in leadership. It also powerfully emphasizes the theme of Divine Promise and Fulfillment, as David's solemn oath concerning Solomon's reign, deeply rooted in God's eternal covenant with David (2 Samuel 7:12-16), hangs precariously in the balance. Furthermore, the verse brilliantly showcases Strategic Advocacy, with Bathsheba, guided by Nathan's wisdom, acting diligently and with remarkable foresight to ensure that God's sovereign plan is not thwarted by human ambition. Her rhetorical question is a masterclass in Political Maneuvering, designed not to gain new information but to compel immediate and decisive action from a king who had, until that moment, become dangerously passive.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • thing (Hebrew, dâbâr', H1697): Derived from H1697, this word signifies "a word," but by implication, it also refers to "a matter" or "a thing," and can denote an "act" or "affair." In Bathsheba's question, "this thing" (H1697) refers to the entire affair of Adonijah's self-proclamation and the accompanying festivities. Her use of this broad term encapsulates the gravity and audacity of Adonijah's actions, implying that such a significant "matter" or "affair" should have been handled with the king's explicit knowledge and decree, not in secret.
  • shewed (Hebrew, yâdaʻ', H3045): From the root H3045, meaning "to know," this verb is used in the Hiphil (causative) stem, conveying the sense "to make known," "to inform," or "to declare." Bathsheba's choice of "shewed" is highly significant. She is not merely suggesting David forgot to tell her; she is implying that a legitimate succession would have been publicly and formally "made known" by the king, especially to those directly involved in the royal household and the future of the kingdom. The absence of such a public "showing" or declaration is precisely what exposes Adonijah's actions as illegitimate and clandestine.
  • sit (Hebrew, yâshab', H3427): From the primitive root H3427, meaning "to sit down," this word carries the strong implication of dwelling, remaining, or settling. In the context of a throne, "to sit" signifies the act of taking permanent residence as ruler, establishing authority, and commencing a reign. Bathsheba's question, "who should sit on the throne," directly addresses the core issue of legitimate succession and the rightful occupant of the royal seat, emphasizing the permanence and authority associated with the act of sitting on the king's throne.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Is this thing done by my lord the king,": Bathsheba initiates her appeal with a potent rhetorical question, directly addressing David with deferential respect as "my lord the king." The "thing" refers to Adonijah's audacious self-proclamation as king and the associated, unauthorized celebrations. By framing it as a question of David's agency and authority, she subtly yet powerfully forces David to confront the stark reality of Adonijah's usurpation and his own perceived inaction or complicity. It functions as an indirect, yet piercing, accusation, skillfully designed to elicit a denial from David and prompt him to take corrective action.
  • "and thou hast not shewed [it] unto thy servant,": This clause forms the very core of Bathsheba's strategic challenge. She highlights the glaring omission: if David had indeed sanctioned Adonijah's ascent, why would he have kept such a monumental decision secret from her, his wife, and the mother of Solomon, the promised heir? This implies that such a secretive and undeclared act could not possibly be the king's doing, thereby exposing Adonijah's actions as illegitimate and unauthorized. Her humble reference to herself as "thy servant" is a strategic appeal to her rightful place within the royal household and her expectation of being informed of critical matters.
  • "who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him?": This final clause directly and unequivocally references the crucial issue of royal succession. It serves as a stark and urgent reminder of David's solemn responsibility to name his successor and, implicitly, of his prior oath to Bathsheba regarding Solomon. The question forces David to consider the profound implications of Adonijah's presumptuous actions on the legitimate line of succession and the divine promise, compelling him to recall and fulfill his unfulfilled duty.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device powerfully employed in 1 Kings 1:27 is the Rhetorical Question. Bathsheba's query is not a genuine request for information, as she and Nathan are well aware of Adonijah's plot. Rather, it is a highly strategic and persuasive device designed to make a forceful point, to challenge David's perceived inaction, and to provoke a specific, decisive response from the king. By asking if "this thing" (Adonijah's usurpation) was done by David without informing her, she implicitly asserts that it could not have been David's doing, as it would be utterly contrary to his character and established protocol. This creates a powerful Implication that Adonijah's actions are unauthorized, rebellious, and a direct affront to the king's authority. Furthermore, there is an element of Dramatic Irony at play, as the audience is privy to the fact that David is largely unaware of the full extent of Adonijah's plot due to his infirmity, while Bathsheba's question suggests a king fully in control who has inexplicably withheld vital information. This irony serves to underscore David's current vulnerability and the pressing urgency of the situation.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse powerfully illustrates the inherent tension between human ambition and divine purpose. Adonijah's audacious attempt to seize the throne represents a purely human scheme, driven by self-interest, pride, and a blatant disregard for established order and the revealed will of God. Bathsheba's courageous intervention, however, meticulously guided by Nathan, serves as the divinely orchestrated catalyst for the fulfillment of God's steadfast promise to David regarding his successor. It profoundly underscores the theological truth that God's sovereign plans for His people and His chosen leaders will ultimately prevail, even amidst the most intricate political intrigues and glaring human failings. The legitimate transfer of power, therefore, is not merely a political maneuver or a matter of human preference, but a profound theological act, reflecting God's absolute sovereignty over earthly kingdoms and His unwavering faithfulness to His sacred covenants.

  • 2 Samuel 7:12-16 - This passage records God's foundational promise to David that his "seed" would establish his kingdom forever, directly underpinning the divine legitimacy of Solomon's claim to the throne.
  • Proverbs 19:21 - "Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails," a proverb that perfectly encapsulates the ultimate triumph of God's will over human schemes, as seen in this narrative.
  • Psalm 75:6-7 - "For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one and exalts another," affirming God's supreme sovereignty in raising up and bringing down leaders according to His divine purpose.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Bathsheba's strategic and courageous intervention in 1 Kings 1:27 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today. It serves as a powerful reminder that even when those in positions of authority appear passive, unaware, or even complicit, faithful and respectful advocacy can be an extraordinarily potent tool for upholding truth, justice, and God's divine purposes. Her question, though humble in its phrasing, was a direct and incisive call to accountability, compelling David to recall his solemn oath and the weight of the divine promise. This narrative challenges us to honestly consider our own roles in speaking truth, respectfully yet firmly, when we witness injustice, moral compromise, or when God's established purposes seem to be undermined. Furthermore, David's initial inaction serves as a sobering cautionary tale for all leaders, whether in the church, home, or workplace: a failure to clarify intentions, communicate decisively, and act proactively can create dangerous power vacuums that inevitably lead to chaos, usurpation, and the subversion of legitimate authority. It underscores the critical importance of clear communication, the faithful fulfillment of commitments, and the active stewardship of responsibilities, especially when they involve the well-being of others or the advancement of God's kingdom. Ultimately, the unfolding narrative reassures us that despite human machinations, God remains eternally sovereign, meticulously orchestrating events to fulfill His perfect and unassailable will.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what specific areas of your life or community might you be called to speak up or advocate for truth and justice, even when it feels challenging or uncomfortable?
  • How does David's initial passivity and perceived detachment in this chapter serve as a warning about the potential dangers of inaction or ambiguity in leadership or personal responsibility?
  • Drawing inspiration from Bathsheba, how can we combine genuine humility and respect with courageous directness when addressing difficult situations or people in authority?
  • Where in your life do you need to deepen your trust in God's ultimate sovereignty to fulfill His purposes, especially when human plans or circumstances seem to be going astray?

FAQ

Why was Bathsheba's question so effective in prompting David to act?

Answer: Bathsheba's question was remarkably effective for several strategic reasons. First, it was a masterfully crafted rhetorical question that subtly but powerfully challenged David's authority, knowledge, and perceived control. By asking if he had sanctioned Adonijah's actions without informing her, she cleverly implied that such a clandestine and unauthorized act could not possibly be the king's doing, thereby exposing Adonijah's usurpation as illegitimate and rebellious. Second, it directly referenced David's unfulfilled promise to her concerning Solomon's succession (1 Kings 1:13), appealing directly to his integrity, his memory, and his solemn covenant with God. Third, her urgent appeal was immediately and powerfully corroborated by Nathan the prophet (1 Kings 1:23-27), lending irrefutable divine authority and immense urgency to her words. Finally, her directness forced David to confront the undeniable reality of the immediate threat to his throne and, more profoundly, to the divine plan for his lineage, compelling him to act decisively and without delay.

What was Adonijah's claim to the throne based on, and why was it illegitimate?

Answer: Adonijah's claim to the throne was primarily based on his status as the eldest surviving son of David after Absalom's death (2 Samuel 3:4). In many ancient Near Eastern cultures, the eldest son often held a strong, though not absolute, claim to succession (primogeniture). However, his claim was fundamentally illegitimate because David, as the reigning king and under divine guidance, had the ultimate right to designate his successor, and he had already sworn a solemn oath that Solomon, not Adonijah, would sit on his throne (1 Kings 1:30). Furthermore, Adonijah acted presumptuously and rebelliously, declaring himself king without David's explicit consent or divine approval. He also lacked the crucial support of key loyal figures within David's court, such as Nathan the prophet, Zadok the priest, and Benaiah, who remained steadfastly loyal to David and God's chosen successor (1 Kings 1:8).

What does this verse reveal about David's state of leadership at this point in his life?

Answer: This verse, in conjunction with the surrounding narrative in 1 Kings 1, reveals that David, due to his advanced age and significant physical infirmity, had become largely passive, detached, and somewhat unaware of the critical political machinations and day-to-day governance within his kingdom. He was seemingly oblivious to the full extent of Adonijah's elaborate plot to usurp the throne, or at the very least, had failed to take decisive action to prevent it. His leadership at this juncture was characterized by a dangerous lack of clear communication regarding his chosen successor, which inadvertently created a perilous power vacuum. This episode highlights the inherent vulnerability of even the greatest leaders when they become physically or mentally incapacitated, and underscores the profound importance of proactive planning for succession to avert chaos, instability, and challenges to legitimate authority.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The dramatic succession crisis in 1 Kings 1:27, culminating in Solomon's rightful and divinely sanctioned enthronement, serves as a profound and layered foreshadowing of the ultimate, legitimate, and eternal reign of Jesus Christ. Just as Adonijah, a human usurper driven by ambition, sought to seize a throne not rightfully his, humanity, through its rebellion and sin, persistently attempts to usurp God's rightful authority over creation. Yet, God's unwavering divine promise to David—that his "seed" would establish an eternal kingdom and a perpetually stable throne (2 Samuel 7:12-16)—finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment not merely in Solomon, whose reign was temporary and flawed, but in Jesus, the true and eternal Son of David. While Solomon's reign ushered in a period of unparalleled peace and prosperity for Israel, it was ultimately transient and marked by human failings. Jesus, however, is the perfect, righteous, and eternal King, whose kingdom "will never end" (Luke 1:32-33). He is the one legitimately appointed by the Father, not through human ambition, political maneuvering, or primogeniture, but by divine decree, sacrificial love, and ultimate vindication (Philippians 2:9-11). Bathsheba's urgent plea for David to uphold his promise for Solomon's succession echoes the deep, universal longing for God to establish His righteous and just rule. In Christ, that rule is not only perfectly established but eternally secured, as He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world and reigns forever and ever as the King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 11:15).

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Commentary on 1 Kings 1 verses 11–31

We have here the effectual endeavours that were used by Nathan and Bathsheba to obtain from David a ratification of Solomon's succession, for the crushing of Adonijah's usurpation. 1. David himself knew not what was doing. Disobedient children think that they are well enough off if they can but keep their good old parents ignorant of their bad courses; but a bird of the air will carry the voice. 2. Bathsheba lived retired, and knew nothing of it either, till Nathan informed her. Many get very comfortably through this world that know little how the world goes. 3. Solomon, it is likely, knew of it, but was as a deaf man that heard not. Though he had years, and wisdom above his years, yet we do not find that he stirred to oppose Adonijah, but quietly composed himself and left it to God and his friends to order the matter. Hence David, in his Psalm for Solomon, observes that while men, in pursuit of the world, in vain rise early and sit up late, God giveth his beloved (his Jedidiahs) sleep, in giving them to be easy, and to gain their point without agitation, Psa 127:1, Psa 127:2. How then is the design brought about?

I. Nathan the prophet alarms Bathsheba by acquainting her with the case, and puts her in a way to get an order from the king for the confirming of Solomon's title. He was concerned, because he knew God's mind, and David's and Israel's interest; it was by him that God had named Solomon Jedidiah (Sa2 12:25), and therefore he could not sit still and see the throne usurped, which he knew was Solomon's right by the will of him from whom promotion cometh. When crowns were disposed of by immediate direction from heaven, no marvel that prophets were so much interested and employed in that matter; but now that common providence rules the affairs of the kingdom of men (Dan 4:32) the subordinate agency must be left to common persons, and let not prophets intermeddle in them, but keep to the affairs of the kingdom of God among men. Nathan applied to Bathsheba, as one that had the greatest concern for Solomon, and could have the freest access to David. He informed her of Adonijah's attempt (Kg1 1:11), and that it was not with David's consent or knowledge. He suggested to her that not only Solomon was in danger of losing the crown, but that he and she too were in danger of losing their lives if Adonijah prevailed. A humble spirit may be indifferent to a crown, and may be content, notwithstanding the prospect of it, to sit down short of the possession of it. But the law of self-preservation, and the sixth commandment, obliges us to use all possible endeavours to secure our own life and the life of others. Now, says Nathan, let me give thee counsel how to save thy own life and the life of thy son, Kg1 1:12. Such as this is the counsel that Christ's ministers give us in his name, to give all diligence, not only that no man take our crown (Rev 3:11), but that we save our lives, even the lives of our souls. He directs her (Kg1 1:13) to go to the king, to remind him of his word and oath, that Solomon should be his successor; and to ask him in the most humble manner, Why doth Adonijah reign? He thought David was not so cold but this would warm him. Conscience, as well as a sense of honour, would put life into him upon such an occasion as this; and he promised (Kg1 1:24) that, while she was reasoning with the king in this matter, he would come in and second her, as if he came accidentally, which perhaps the king might look upon as a special providence (and he was one that took notice of such evidences, Sa1 25:32, Sa1 25:33), or, at least, it would help to awaken him so much the more.

II. Bathsheba, according to Nathan's advice and direction, loses no time, but immediately makes her application to the king, on the same errand on which Esther came to king Ahasuerus, to intercede for her life. She needed not wait for a call as Esther did, she knew she should be welcome at any time; but it is remarked that when she visited the king Abishag was ministering to him (Kg1 1:15), and Bathsheba took no displeasure either at him or her for it, also that she bowed and did obeisance to the king (Kg1 1:16), in token of her respect to him both as her prince and as her husband; such a genuine daughter was she of Sarah, who obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. Those that would find favour with superiors mush show them reverence, and be dutiful to those whom they expect to be kind to them. Her address to the king, on this occasion, is very discreet. 1. She reminded him of his promise made to her and confirmed with a solemn oath, that Solomon should succeed him, Kg1 1:17. She knew how fast this would hold such a conscientious man as David was. 2. She informed him of Adonijah's attempt, which he was ignorant of (Kg1 1:18): "Adonijah reigns, in competition with thee for the present and in contradiction to thy promise for the future. The fault is not thine, for thou knewest it not; but now that thou knowest it thou wilt, in pursuance of thy promise, take care to suppress this usurpation." She told him who were Adonijah's guests, and who were in his interest, and added, but "Solomon thy servant has he not called, which plainly shows he looks upon him as his rival, and aims to undermine him, Kg1 1:19. It is not an oversight, but a contempt of the act of settlement, that Solomon is neglected." 3. She pleads that it is very much in his power to obviate this mischief (Kg1 1:20): The eyes of all Israel are upon thee, not only as a king, for we cannot suppose it the prerogative of any prince to bequeath his subjects by will (as if they were his goods and chattels) to whom he pleases, but as a prophet. All Israel knew that David was not only himself the anointed of the God of Jacob, but that the Spirit of the Lord spoke by him (Sa2 23:1, Sa2 23:2), and therefore waiting for and depending upon a divine designation, in a matter of such importance, David's word would be an oracle and a law to them; this therefore (says Bathsheba) they expect, and it will end the controversy and effectually quash all Adonijah's pretensions. A divine sentence is in the lips of the king. Note, Whatever power, interest or influence, men have, they ought to improve it to the utmost for the preserving and advancing of the kingdom of the Messiah, of which Solomon's kingdom was a type. 4. She suggested the imminent peril which she and her son would be in if this matter was not settled in David's life-time, Kg1 1:21. "If Adonijah prevail, as he is likely to do (having Joab the general and Abiathar the priest on his side) unless speedily suppressed, Solomon and all his friends will be looked upon as traitors and dealt with accordingly." Usurpers are most cruel. If Adonijah had got into the throne, he would not have dealt so fairly with Solomon as Solomon did with him. Those hazard everything who stand in the way of such as against right force their entrance.

III. Nathan the prophet, according to his promise, seasonably stepped in, and seconded her, while she was speaking, before the king had given his answer, lest. if he had heard Bathsheba's representation only, his answer should be dilatory and only that he would consider of it: but out of the mouth of two witnesses, two such witnesses, the word would be established, and he would immediately give positive orders. The king is told that Nathan the prophet has come, and he is sure to be always welcome to the king, especially when either he is not well or has any great affair upon his thoughts; for, in either case, a prophet will be, in a particular manner, serviceable to him. Nathan knows he must render honour to whom honour is due, and therefore pays the king the same respect now that he finds him sick in bed as he would have done if he had found him in his throne: He bowed himself with his face to the ground, Kg1 1:23. He deals a little more plainly with the king than Bathsheba had done. In this his character would support him, and the present languor of the king's spirits made it necessary that they should be roused. 1. He makes the same representation of Adonijah's attempt as Bathsheba had made (Kg1 1:25, Kg1 1:26), adding that his party had already got to such a height of assurance as to shout, God save king Adonijah, as if king David were already dead, taking notice also that they had not invited him to their feast (Me thy servant has he not called), thereby intimating that they resolved not to consult either God or David in the matter, for Nathan was secretioribus consiliis - intimately acquainted with the mind of both. 2. He makes David sensible how much he was concerned to clear himself from having a hand in it: Hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me? (Kg1 1:24), and again (Kg1 1:27), "Is this thing done by my lord the king? If it be, he is not so faithful either to God's word or to his own as we all took him to be; if it be not, it is high time that we witness against the usurpation, and declare Solomon his successor. If it be, why is not Nathan made acquainted with it, who is not only in general, the king's confidant, but is particularly concerned in this matter, having been employed to notify to David the mind of God concerning the succession; but, if my lord the king knows nothing of the matter (as certainly he does not), what daring insolence are Adonijah and his party guilty of!" Thus he endeavoured to incense David against them, that he might act the more vigorously for the support of Solomon's interest. Note, Good men would do their duty if they were reminded of it, and put upon it, and told what occasion there is for them to appear; and those who thus are their remembrancers do them a real kindness, as Nathan here did to David.

IV. David, hereupon, made a solemn declaration of his firm adherence to his former resolution, that Solomon should be his successor. Bathsheba is called in (Kg1 1:28), and to her, as acting for and on behalf of her son, the king gives these fresh assurances. 1. He repeats his former promise and oath, owns that he had sworn unto her by the Lord God of Israel that Solomon would reign after him, Kg1 1:30. Though he is old, and his memory begins to fail him, yet he remembers this. Note, An oath is so sacred a thing that the obligations of it cannot be broken, and so solemn a thing that the impressions of it, one would think, cannot be forgotten. 2. He ratifies it with another, because the occasion called for it: As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, even so will I certainly do this day, without dispute, without delay. His form of swearing seems to be what he commonly used on solemn occasions, for we find it, Sa2 4:9. And it carries in it a grateful acknowledgment of the goodness of God to him, in bringing him safely through the many difficulties and hardships which had lain in his way, and which he now makes mention of to the glory of God (as Jacob, when he lay a dying, Gen 48:16), thus setting to his seal, from his own experience, that that was true which the Spirit of the Lord spoke by him. Psa 34:22, The Lord redeemeth the soul of his servants. Dying saints ought to be witnesses for God, and speak of him as they have found. Perhaps he speaks thus, on this occasion, for the encouragement of his son and successor to trust in God in the distresses he also might meet with.

V. Bathsheba receives these assurances (Kg1 1:31), 1. With great complaisance to the king's person; she did reverence to him; while Adonijah and his party affronted him. 2. With hearty good wishes for the king's health; Let him live. So far was she from thinking that he lived too long that she prayed he might live for ever, if it were possible, to adorn the crown he wore and to be a blessing to his people. We should earnestly desire the prolonging of useful lives, however it may be the postponing of any advantages of our own.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 11–31. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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