1 Kings 2:23

KJV

Then king Solomon sware by the LORD, saying, God do so to me, and more also, if Adonijah have not spoken this word against his own life.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then king {H4428} Solomon {H8010} sware {H7650} by the LORD {H3068}, saying {H559}, God {H430} do {H6213} so to me, and more also {H3254}, if Adonijah {H138} have not spoken {H1696} this word {H1697} against his own life {H5315}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then King Shlomo swore by ADONAI, "May God do terrible things to me and worse if Adoniyah hasn't condemned himself to death with this request!

Berean Standard Bible

Then King Solomon swore by the LORD: “May God punish me, and ever so severely, if Adonijah has not made this request at the expense of his life.

American Standard Version

Then king Solomon sware by Jehovah, saying, God do so to me, and more also, if Adonijah hath not spoken this word against his own life.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 2:23 records King Solomon's solemn and decisive oath, invoking the divine name, to execute Adonijah. Solomon interprets Adonijah's request for Abishag, David's former concubine, not as an innocent plea but as a calculated act of treason, a subtle yet profound challenge to his divinely appointed kingship. This declaration marks a critical moment in the consolidation of Solomon's power, demonstrating his unwavering resolve to secure his throne and establish justice in the nascent kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment within the opening chapters of 1 Kings, which detail the transition of power from King David to his son Solomon and the subsequent establishment of Solomon's reign. Adonijah, David's elder surviving son, had previously attempted to usurp the throne during David's final days, a narrative extensively covered in [1 Kings 1:5-10](/1_kings/1-5-10 "1 Kings 1:5-10 - Adonijah's Failed Coup"). Though Solomon initially showed clemency, warning Adonijah in [1 Kings 1:52](/1_kings/1-52 "1 Kings 1:52 - Solomon's Warning to Adonijah") that any wickedness would result in his death, Adonijah's subsequent request for Abishag the Shunammite, David's concubine, through Bathsheba ([1 Kings 2:13-22](/1_kings/2-13-22 "1 Kings 2:13-22 - Adonijah's Request for Abishag")), is the immediate catalyst for Solomon's pronouncement in this verse. Solomon perceives this seemingly innocuous request as a direct challenge to his authority, a calculated move to assert a claim to the throne through symbolic association with the deceased king.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the royal harem was not merely a collection of wives and concubines but a potent symbol and extension of the king's power and authority. To take a deceased king's concubine was often understood as an act of succession, a public declaration of one's claim to the throne, or a direct challenge to the reigning monarch. Historical precedents for this understanding include Absalom's public defilement of David's concubines in [2 Samuel 16:21-22](/2_samuel/16-21-22 "2 Samuel 16:21-22 - Absalom's Public Usurpation") and the symbolic significance of Rizpah, Saul's concubine, to Ish-bosheth's claim in [2 Samuel 3:7](/2_samuel/3-7 "2 Samuel 3:7 - Rizpah and Abner's Dispute"). Solomon's oath, "God do so to me, and more also," is a traditional Hebrew self-imprecatory formula, signifying the utmost solemnity and binding nature of his declaration. This type of oath invokes divine judgment upon the speaker if they fail to fulfill their word, underscoring the gravity of the perceived treason and the absolute authority of the newly established king.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of 1 Kings and the broader Deuteronomistic history. Firstly, it underscores the **Consolidation of Power** by King Solomon. Despite his youth, Solomon demonstrates remarkable political acumen and firm resolve, acting swiftly and decisively to remove any potential rivals or threats to his divinely appointed rule, thereby ensuring the stability and security of his kingdom. This aligns with the broader theme of the Davidic covenant and the establishment of a secure dynasty. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Judgment and Justice**. Solomon's solemn oath, invoking the LORD, emphasizes his belief that Adonijah's actions constituted not merely a rebellion against him, but against God's chosen king, a role established by divine promise to David concerning his successor in [1 Chronicles 22:10](/1_chronicles/22-10 "1 Chronicles 22:10 - God's Promise to Solomon"). The severity of the oath reflects the gravity of the perceived offense and Solomon's commitment to executing divine justice. Finally, the verse illustrates the **Consequences of Unchecked Ambition**. Adonijah's persistent desire for the throne, even after being granted clemency, ultimately leads to his demise, serving as a stark warning against defying legitimate authority and the destructive nature of self-serving ambition that disregards divine will.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **sware (Hebrew, _shâbaʿ_):** This verb (H7650), derived from a root meaning "seven" (symbolizing completeness or fullness), denotes the act of taking an oath, often by invoking a divine name (here, "by the LORD," H3068). It signifies a profound, binding commitment, making the declaration inviolable and backed by the highest authority. When one "swore by the LORD," it meant placing oneself under divine judgment if the oath was broken, underscoring the absolute seriousness of Solomon's pronouncement.
* **do (Hebrew, _ʿâsâh_):** This verb (H6213), meaning "to do or make," is used here in the self-imprecatory oath formula, "God do so to me." It indicates the execution or performance of an action. In this context, it refers to the divine action of bringing judgment upon Solomon if he were to fail in carrying out his stated intention, emphasizing the certainty and gravity of his resolve.
* **life (Hebrew, _nephesh_):** The Hebrew word _nephesh_ (H5315) is multifaceted, referring to "breath," "soul," "self," or "life." In the phrase "against his own life," it is used idiomatically to mean "at the cost of his life" or "to his own destruction." Adonijah's "word" (his request for Abishag) is directly responsible for bringing about his death, demonstrating a direct causal link between his action and its fatal consequence, sealing his own fate.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then king Solomon sware by the LORD":** This opening clause immediately establishes the gravity of the moment and the source of Solomon's authority. Solomon, now firmly established as king (H4428, _melek_), does not act lightly or merely out of personal vengeance. By swearing "by the LORD" (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_), he elevates his decision from a purely political maneuver to a divinely sanctioned act of justice, aligning his authority with God's. This invocation underscores his belief that his kingship (H8010, _Shᵉlômôh_) is divinely appointed and protected.
* **"saying, God do so to me, and more also":** This is the solemn, self-imprecatory oath (H559, _ʾâmar_; H6213, _ʿâsâh_; H3254, _yâçaph_) that confirms Solomon's absolute resolve. It is a public and binding declaration that he will carry out the judgment he is about to pronounce. The "more also" intensifies the oath, indicating that Solomon is prepared to face the severest divine consequences (H430, _ʾĕlôhîym_) if he fails to act, thereby emphasizing the perceived necessity and righteousness of his impending action.
* **"if Adonijah have not spoken this word against his own life":** This is the condition of the oath, revealing Solomon's interpretation of Adonijah's (H138, _ʾĂdônîyâh_) request. Solomon sees Adonijah's "word" (H1697, _dâbâr_ - his request for Abishag, which was "spoken" (H1696, _dâbar_)) as a direct act of treason, a challenge to his legitimate kingship, and thus a self-condemning statement. Adonijah's own actions and words have brought about his demise, making the judgment a consequence of his own rebellion against his "own life" (H5315, _nephesh_).

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices that amplify its dramatic and theological impact. The most prominent is the **Oath Formula**, specifically the self-imprecatory oath ("God do so to me, and more also"). This formula is a powerful rhetorical device that emphasizes the speaker's unwavering commitment and the solemnity of the pronouncement. It elevates the king's word to a divinely binding decree, leaving no room for doubt or retraction. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Irony** at play. Adonijah, who had previously sought to seize the throne through a premature coronation, ultimately speaks a "word" (his request for Abishag) that directly leads to his execution. His ambition, intended to secure his life and power, paradoxically becomes the instrument of his destruction. This also serves as a form of **Foreshadowing**, setting the tone for Solomon's reign as one characterized by decisive action and the swift removal of threats, demonstrating his wisdom and resolve in maintaining order and justice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This pivotal verse underscores the theological principle that God establishes and upholds legitimate authority, and that rebellion against such authority can carry severe consequences, often seen as rebellion against God Himself. Solomon's invocation of the LORD in his oath signifies his conviction that his actions are not merely political but divinely sanctioned, reflecting God's commitment to justice and the stability of His chosen kingdom. The narrative reveals that God's justice is not always immediate but is ultimately sure, and that unchecked ambition, particularly when it defies divine will or established order, leads to self-destruction. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that God is sovereign over human kingdoms and that He will ensure the fulfillment of His promises, even through the decisive actions of His anointed leaders, to maintain order and righteousness within His covenant people.

* [Deuteronomy 17:15](/deuteronomy/17-15 "Deuteronomy 17:15 - Choosing a King")
* [Psalm 75:6-7](/psalms/75-6-7 "Psalm 75:6-7 - God as Judge and Exalter")
* [Romans 13:1-2](/romans/13-1-2 "Romans 13:1-2 - Submission to Governing Authorities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's decisive action in 1 Kings 2:23 offers profound lessons on leadership, the consequences of ambition, and the seriousness of oaths. For leaders, it highlights the often difficult but necessary task of maintaining order, upholding justice, and protecting the integrity of the institution they serve, even when it requires confronting internal threats. It underscores that true leadership, especially in a divinely appointed role, sometimes demands firm resolve and the courage to make unpopular decisions for the greater good and the stability of the realm. For individuals, Adonijah's story serves as a stark warning against unchecked ambition and a persistent spirit of rebellion, even after receiving grace. His inability to accept Solomon's legitimate rule and his continued scheming ultimately led to his demise, illustrating that defiance of established, God-ordained authority carries severe consequences. Furthermore, Solomon's solemn oath reminds us of the gravity of our words and commitments, particularly when invoking God's name. It calls us to integrity, to weigh our words carefully, and to honor our promises, recognizing that our actions, even seemingly subtle ones, can have far-reaching and unforeseen consequences, impacting not only ourselves but also those around us. This passage challenges us to examine our own ambitions and to submit to God's established order, trusting in His sovereign plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Solomon's decisive action here inform our understanding of leadership, even when difficult decisions are required for the sake of justice and stability?**
* **What does Adonijah's persistent ambition, despite being granted clemency, teach us about the dangers of unchecked desire and rebellion against legitimate authority?**
* **In what ways do our words or actions, even seemingly innocuous ones, have unforeseen consequences, and how can we cultivate greater discernment and integrity in our daily lives?**

### FAQ
**Why was Adonijah's request for Abishag considered a capital offense by Solomon?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, taking a deceased king's concubine was widely understood as a symbolic act of claiming the throne or asserting succession rights. Abishag had served David in his final days, making her part of the royal household and, by extension, a symbol of royal prerogative. Therefore, Adonijah's request, though seemingly a personal marital plea, was interpreted by Solomon as a subtle but direct challenge to his divinely appointed kingship and a renewed attempt to usurp the throne. Solomon, understanding the profound political implications, viewed it as an act of treason punishable by death, especially given Adonijah's previous attempt to seize power as recorded in [1 Kings 1:5-10](/1_kings/1-5-10 "1 Kings 1:5-10 - Adonijah's Attempted Coup").

**What is the significance of Solomon swearing "by the LORD" and using the phrase "God do so to me, and more also"?**

Answer: Solomon swearing "by the LORD" signifies that he is invoking God as a witness and guarantor of his oath. This elevates his declaration from a mere political statement to a divinely sanctioned decree, underscoring his conviction that his actions are aligned with God's will and justice. The phrase "God do so to me, and more also" is a powerful, self-imprecatory oath formula common in the Old Testament. It means, "May God inflict severe punishment upon me, even more than I can imagine, if I do not fulfill this promise or threat." By using this, Solomon demonstrates absolute and unwavering resolve to execute judgment against Adonijah, binding himself to the divine consequences if he were to fail in what he perceived as his duty to secure the kingdom God had given him. This oath underscores the gravity of the situation and Solomon's unshakeable commitment to his decision.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Solomon's decisive action in 1 Kings 2:23, though a stark display of earthly power and justice, points forward to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, in profound ways. Solomon, as the son of David, was tasked with establishing and securing his earthly kingdom, often through the necessary elimination of threats to its stability. His reign, marked by wisdom and the consolidation of power, foreshadows the perfect and eternal reign of Christ. While Solomon's judgment involved the death of a rival, Jesus, the true Son of David, establishes His kingdom not by executing His enemies, but by dying for them, as prophesied in [Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - The Suffering Servant"). He is the King whose "word" brings life, not death, to those who believe, as declared in [John 6:63](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - Words of Life"). Unlike Adonijah's earthly ambition that led to his demise, Christ's kingdom is "not of this world" ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")), yet it is universally sovereign. He perfectly fulfills the Davidic covenant, as the angel Gabriel proclaimed in [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - Angel Gabriel's Prophecy to Mary"), and His reign will have no end. Ultimately, Christ will return as the righteous Judge, the "King of kings, and Lord of lords," who will definitively put down all rebellion and establish perfect justice, as depicted in [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse"), bringing true and lasting peace to His eternal kingdom.

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

Ruth 1:17

Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, [if ought] but death part thee and me.

Psalms 140:9

[As for] the head of those that compass me about, let the mischief of their own lips cover them.

Psalms 64:8

So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that see them shall flee away.

2 Samuel 19:13

And say ye to Amasa, [Art] thou not of my bone, and of my flesh? God do so to me, and more also, if thou be not captain of the host before me continually in the room of Joab.

2 Samuel 3:35

And when all the people came to cause David to eat meat while it was yet day, David sware, saying, So do God to me, and more also, if I taste bread, or ought else, till the sun be down.

Proverbs 18:6

¶ A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.

Proverbs 18:7

A fool's mouth [is] his destruction, and his lips [are] the snare of his soul.