1 Kings 2:19

KJV

Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a seat to be set for the king's mother; and she sat on his right hand.

KJV (with Strong's)

Bathsheba {H1339} therefore went {H935} unto king {H4428} Solomon {H8010}, to speak {H1696} unto him for Adonijah {H138}. And the king {H4428} rose up {H6965} to meet {H7125} her, and bowed {H7812} himself unto her, and sat down {H3427} on his throne {H3678}, and caused a seat {H3678} to be set {H7760} for the king's {H4428} mother {H517}; and she sat {H3427} on his right hand {H3225}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So Bat-Sheva went to King Shlomo to speak to him on behalf of Adoniyah. The king rose to meet her and bowed down to her. Then he sat down on his throne and had a throne set up for the king's mother, so that she sat at his right.

Berean Standard Bible

So Bathsheba went to King Solomon to speak to him for Adonijah. The king stood up to greet her, bowed to her, and sat down on his throne. Then the king had a throne brought for his mother, who sat down at his right hand.

American Standard Version

Bath-sheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a throne to be set for the king’s mother; and she sat on his right hand.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 2:19 captures a pivotal moment in the early reign of King Solomon, illustrating his profound respect for his mother, Bathsheba, while simultaneously underscoring his shrewd discernment and unwavering resolve to consolidate his newly established throne. Bathsheba's visit to intercede for Adonijah, David's ambitious fourth son, is met with an extraordinary display of royal honor: Solomon rises, bows, and seats her at his right hand, a position of unparalleled privilege and authority reserved for the Queen Mother, or "Gebirah." This scene sets the stage for Solomon's decisive actions to secure his kingdom, revealing his ability to balance filial piety with the demands of kingship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of Solomon's consolidation of power following the death of his father, King David. Immediately preceding this, Adonijah, who had previously attempted to usurp the throne before David's death [1 Kings 1:5](/1_kings/1-5 "1 Kings 1:5 - Adonijah's Attempted Coup"), had been spared by Solomon [1 Kings 1:53](/1_kings/1-53 "1 Kings 1:53 - Solomon Spares Adonijah"). Despite this reprieve, Adonijah approaches Bathsheba with a seemingly innocuous request: to obtain Abishag the Shunammite, David's former concubine, as his wife [1 Kings 2:17](/1_kings/2-17 "1 Kings 2:17 - Adonijah's Request for Abishag"). Bathsheba, perhaps unaware of the deep political implications of this request, agrees to present it to Solomon. The profound respect Solomon shows his mother in this verse, juxtaposed with his subsequent swift and decisive judgment against Adonijah in [1 Kings 2:22-25](/1_kings/2-22 "1 Kings 2:22-25 - Solomon's Judgment on Adonijah"), highlights his emerging strength and wisdom as king.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern monarchies, including Israel, the position of the "Gebirah" or Queen Mother was one of immense influence and prestige, often surpassing that of the king's wives. She typically served as an advisor and intercessor, and her status was a significant symbol of dynastic legitimacy. Solomon's actions—rising to meet his mother, bowing to her, and seating her at his right hand—were not merely acts of filial piety but public declarations of Bathsheba's elevated status as the reigning Queen Mother. Furthermore, Adonijah's request for Abishag, a concubine of the deceased king, was far from innocent. In the political landscape of the time, taking possession of a former king's concubines was a symbolic act of claiming royal succession and authority, as seen when Absalom lay with David's concubines [2 Samuel 16:21-22](/2_samuel/16-21 "2 Samuel 16:21-22 - Absalom Defiles David's Concubines"). Adonijah's request was therefore a subtle, yet profound, challenge to Solomon's legitimate claim to the throne.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "The Book of 1 Kings"). Firstly, it underscores the **Authority and Respect for the Queen Mother**, demonstrating the unique and powerful role the Gebirah held in the Israelite court, providing unparalleled access to the king. Secondly, it highlights **Solomon's Filial Piety and Royal Dignity**, showing his ability to balance deep personal respect for his mother with the unwavering demands of kingship and the need to protect his throne from perceived threats. His gracious reception of Bathsheba sets the stage for his later, decisive action, emphasizing his shrewdness. Lastly, the interaction is a critical step in the **Unfolding of Dynastic Stability** for the Davidic line. Adonijah's seemingly simple request becomes the final catalyst for Solomon to eliminate a persistent threat, ensuring the secure establishment of his God-given reign, a theme central to the early chapters of [1 Kings](/1_kings/2 "1 Kings 2 - Solomon's Reign Begins").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **rose up (קוּם, _qum'_):** This Hebrew verb signifies not just a physical standing but an act of active deference, respect, and honor. For a king, especially a newly enthroned one, to rise for anyone, even his mother, was an extraordinary gesture, publicly acknowledging her unique status and authority. It conveyed a profound sense of reverence and submission to her presence, setting a tone of deep respect for the Queen Mother.
* **bowed himself (שָׁחָה, _shachah'_):** This verb describes an act of prostration or deep obeisance, often used in worship or profound respect for a superior. While Solomon was king, his bowing to Bathsheba, his mother, demonstrated an exceptional level of honor and humility. It visually communicated her elevated position in the royal hierarchy, second only to the king himself, and reinforced her role as a revered figure within the court.
* **right hand (יָמִין, _yamin'_):** In ancient cultures, particularly in the Near East, the right hand was universally associated with power, honor, authority, and favor. To be seated at the king's right hand was the highest position of privilege and distinction. Solomon's gesture was a public and unequivocal declaration of Bathsheba's supreme status not just as his mother, but as the "Gebirah," the Queen Mother, whose influence and honor were unparalleled in the kingdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah."**: This clause establishes the purpose of Bathsheba's visit. The "therefore" connects her action directly to Adonijah's request in the preceding verses, highlighting her role as an intercessor. Her willingness to approach the king on behalf of Adonijah, despite his past treachery, underscores her maternal compassion or perhaps her naiveté regarding the political implications.
* **"And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her,"**: This describes Solomon's immediate and profound reaction upon his mother's entrance. His rising and bowing are not mere courtesies but powerful public demonstrations of honor, respect, and reverence for his mother and her unique position as Queen Mother. These actions elevate Bathsheba's status in the eyes of the court and the kingdom.
* **"and sat down on his throne, and caused a seat to be set for the king's mother;"**: After showing personal deference, Solomon reasserts his royal authority by returning to his throne. However, he then immediately commands a special seat to be placed for Bathsheba. This act signifies her official, institutionalized status within the royal court, not just as his mother but as a figure of immense political and social importance.
* **"and she sat on his right hand."**: This final phrase encapsulates the pinnacle of honor and authority bestowed upon Bathsheba. Being seated at the king's right hand was the preeminent position of privilege, signifying her unparalleled influence and proximity to royal power. It publicly validates her role as the "Gebirah," a powerful figure in the kingdom, setting the stage for her intercession—and Solomon's response.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several significant literary devices. **Symbolism** is prominent in Solomon's actions: his rising, bowing, and seating Bathsheba at his **right hand** are potent symbols of honor, reverence, and the supreme authority of the Queen Mother. The "right hand" itself is a powerful symbol of power, favor, and preeminence throughout biblical literature. There is also an element of **foreshadowing** in this scene; Solomon's initial display of profound respect for his mother, followed by his firm and decisive actions against Adonijah, subtly foreshadows his later reputation for wisdom and judgment. The narrative also presents a subtle **contrast**: the seemingly innocent nature of Bathsheba's intercession for Adonijah stands in stark contrast to the underlying, politically charged motives of Adonijah himself, and Solomon's immediate, shrewd understanding of the true implications of the request.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 2:19 offers profound theological insights into the nature of authority, wisdom, and divine sovereignty. Solomon's actions demonstrate a balance between honoring human relationships (filial piety) and exercising divine authority with discernment. His respect for his mother, while commendable, does not blind him to the hidden dangers of Adonijah's request, highlighting the critical importance of spiritual wisdom in leadership. This passage underscores that true wisdom involves not only knowing what is right but also understanding the underlying motives and potential consequences of actions. Ultimately, God's sovereign hand is evident in the consolidation of Solomon's reign, ensuring the stability of the Davidic covenant despite human machinations.

* [Exodus 20:12](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - Honor your father and your mother")
* [Proverbs 31:30](/proverbs/31-30 "Proverbs 31:30 - Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain")
* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 1 Kings 2:19 provides a rich tapestry for personal reflection and application in the life of a believer. Solomon's exemplary display of honor towards his mother, even as a powerful king, serves as a timeless reminder of the biblical mandate to respect and honor our parents and those in authority. This respect is not conditional on their perfection, but a foundational virtue that reflects God's order. However, Solomon's wisdom extends beyond mere deference; he discerns the hidden agenda behind Adonijah's seemingly benign request, teaching us the vital importance of spiritual discernment. In a world often filled with subtle deceptions and masked intentions, believers are called to pray for wisdom and insight, to look beyond the surface, and to test spirits. Furthermore, the passage reminds us that God is sovereign over all earthly powers and political maneuverings. Even amidst human scheming and ambition, God's divine plan for His kingdom and His chosen leaders will prevail. Our ultimate trust must rest in His sovereign hand, knowing that He works all things for His purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Solomon's respectful yet discerning response to his mother challenge my own interactions with authority figures or those I deeply respect?**
* **In what areas of my life might I need greater spiritual discernment to recognize hidden motives or subtle threats to truth and righteousness?**
* **How does this passage encourage me to trust in God's ultimate sovereignty, even when faced with complex human schemes or political maneuvering?**

### FAQ
**Why was taking the king's concubine such a serious offense?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern monarchies, the king's concubines were considered part of his royal property and a symbol of his authority and succession. To take possession of them, especially after the king's death, was a highly symbolic act of claiming the throne and challenging the legitimate heir. It was not merely a personal or sexual transgression but a profound political statement, asserting a claim to the deceased king's power and legacy. We see this principle demonstrated when Absalom publicly lay with David's concubines, an act designed to solidify his usurpation of the throne in the eyes of Israel [2 Samuel 16:21-22](/2_samuel/16-21 "2 Samuel 16:21-22 - Absalom Defiles David's Concubines"). Adonijah's request for Abishag, David's former concubine, was therefore a thinly veiled attempt to assert his claim to the throne, which Solomon immediately recognized as a direct challenge to his reign.

**What was the role of the "Queen Mother" (Gebirah) in ancient Israel?**

Answer: The "Queen Mother," or "Gebirah" (Hebrew for "great lady" or "mistress"), held a uniquely powerful and influential position in the Israelite court, particularly during the period of the monarchy. Unlike the king's many wives, there was only one Queen Mother, typically the mother of the reigning king. Her role was distinct and often carried significant political weight. She served as an advisor to the king, an intercessor on behalf of the people, and a symbol of dynastic continuity and legitimacy. Her elevated status is evident in Solomon's actions in [1 Kings 2:19](/1_kings/2-19 "1 Kings 2:19 - Solomon Honors Bathsheba"), where he rises, bows, and seats her at his right hand—a position of unparalleled honor and proximity to royal power. Her influence could be substantial, as seen in the story of Asa's mother, Maacah, whose idolatry he removed her from her position for [1 Kings 15:13](/1_kings/15-13 "1 Kings 15:13 - Asa Removes Maacah as Queen Mother").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The scene in 1 Kings 2:19, with Solomon's profound wisdom and discerning authority, serves as a compelling foreshadowing of King Jesus, the ultimate Son of David. Solomon's ability to balance filial respect with royal discernment points to Christ, who perfectly embodies both divine authority and perfect love. Just as Solomon secured his earthly throne, Christ has established an eternal kingdom that will never be shaken [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus' Eternal Kingdom"). Unlike Solomon, whose wisdom, though great, was still human and fallible, Jesus possesses infinite wisdom, knowing the hearts and motives of all people [John 2:24-25](/john/2-24 "John 2:24-25 - Jesus Knew All People"). He is the true "greater than Solomon" [Matthew 12:42](/matthew/12-42 "Matthew 12:42 - The Queen of the South and Solomon"), whose discernment of hidden agendas is absolute. Furthermore, the honor bestowed upon Bathsheba by being seated at Solomon's right hand finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's exaltation to the right hand of God the Father, where He reigns with all authority and power [Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory"); [Ephesians 1:20-21](/ephesians/1-20 "Ephesians 1:20-21 - Christ Seated at God's Right Hand"). Through Christ, believers, who are called His spiritual family, have unparalleled access to the Father, interceding not through a human queen mother, but through the perfect High Priest who lives to intercede for us [Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood").

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

Psalms 45:9

Kings' daughters [were] among thy honourable women: upon thy right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir.

Leviticus 19:3

Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths: I [am] the LORD your God.

Exodus 20:12

¶ Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Leviticus 19:32

Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: I [am] the LORD.

Psalms 110:1

¶ A Psalm of David. The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

1 Kings 15:13

And also Maachah his mother, even her he removed from [being] queen, because she had made an idol in a grove; and Asa destroyed her idol, and burnt [it] by the brook Kidron.

Matthew 25:33

And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.