1 Kings 2:36

KJV

And the king sent and called for Shimei, and said unto him, Build thee an house in Jerusalem, and dwell there, and go not forth thence any whither.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the king {H4428} sent {H7971} and called {H7121} for Shimei {H8096}, and said {H559} unto him, Build {H1129} thee an house {H1004} in Jerusalem {H3389}, and dwell {H3427} there, and go not forth {H3318} thence any whither {H575}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The king summoned Shim'i and said to him, "Build yourself a house in Yerushalayim, and live there; don't go outside the city walls.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the king summoned Shimei and said to him, “Build a house for yourself in Jerusalem and live there, but do not go anywhere else.

American Standard Version

And the king sent and called for Shimei, and said unto him, Build thee a house in Jerusalem, and dwell there, and go not forth thence any whither.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
King Solomon's directive to Shimei marks a pivotal moment in the consolidation of his nascent reign, showcasing his strategic acumen and unwavering resolve. This verse details the king's specific command for Shimei, a figure with a contentious history with David, to construct a dwelling in Jerusalem and remain confined within its walls, effectively placing him under a stringent form of house arrest. This act serves as a calculated probationary measure, designed to test Shimei's loyalty and obedience while neutralizing a potential internal threat to the stability of the new monarchy, thereby establishing a clear precedent for Solomon's administration of justice and assertion of absolute authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This command is strategically placed early in Solomon's reign, immediately following his ascension to the throne and the decisive elimination of key rivals such as Adonijah and Joab, who had challenged his legitimate claim to kingship. It directly fulfills a crucial part of King David's dying charge to Solomon, specifically concerning the handling of Shimei ([1 Kings 2:8-9](/1_kings/2-8 "1 Kings 2:8-9 - David's Final Instructions Regarding Shimei")). David, bound by an earlier oath not to personally execute Shimei for his public cursing during Absalom's rebellion ([2 Samuel 16:5-13](/2_samuel/16-5-13 "2 Samuel 16:5-13 - Shimei Curses David and David's Response")), wisely entrusted Solomon with the responsibility of dealing with him. Solomon’s actions here, including the subsequent and inevitable judgment when Shimei violates these terms ([1 Kings 2:42-46](/1_kings/2-42-46 "1 Kings 2:42-46 - Shimei's Disobedience and Death")), underscore his calculated and systematic approach to securing his kingdom by neutralizing perceived threats and firmly establishing his absolute royal authority. This episode is a testament to Solomon's wisdom in governance, as prophesied by David in [1 Kings 2:9](/1_kings/2-9 "1 Kings 2:9 - David's Wisdom Charge to Solomon").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the volatile landscape of ancient Near Eastern monarchies, the consolidation of power by a new king frequently involved the swift and decisive elimination or neutralization of rivals, potential usurpers, and lingering threats to ensure the stability and longevity of the new regime. Shimei, as a prominent Benjamite who had publicly cursed the revered King David, represented a significant and unresolved challenge, particularly given the tribal tensions and political instabilities that often characterized the early periods of Israelite kingship. Solomon's command reflects a common practice of imposing internal exile or house arrest on individuals deemed dangerous but not yet warranting immediate execution. Jerusalem, having been recently established as the unified capital and burgeoning religious center, served as an ideal location for such confinement. This allowed the king to monitor Shimei closely, preventing him from inciting rebellion or gathering support within his home territory of Benjamin. This act not only asserted the king's ultimate judicial authority but also demonstrated his right to dictate the terms of life and movement within his realm, reinforcing the new order under his rule.
* **Key Themes:** Solomon's directive to Shimei in this passage contributes significantly to several overarching themes present throughout [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "The Book of 1 Kings - Solomon's Reign and the Divided Kingdom"). Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Justice and Consequences**, demonstrating that past disloyalty and rebellion, even if temporarily pardoned or deferred, ultimately incur a reckoning under the new king's righteous rule. Shimei's confinement is a direct and measured consequence of his earlier actions against David, underscoring the profound biblical principle that no act against God's anointed goes unaddressed. Secondly, the passage highlights **Royal Authority and Wisdom**, as Solomon exercises his sovereign power decisively but with a calculated, measured approach, offering a conditional reprieve rather than immediate execution. This strategic move not only neutralizes a latent threat but also publicly asserts his dominion and sagacity in governance. Thirdly, the theme of **Conditional Obedience** is central; Shimei's life, freedom, and well-being are explicitly contingent upon his strict adherence to the king's decree, setting a clear boundary that serves as a test of his loyalty. Finally, this episode is an integral part of Solomon's broader effort to **Establish Order and Stability** within the newly unified kingdom, systematically addressing unresolved issues from David's reign and ensuring that his own rule is unchallenged and firmly secured, thereby fulfilling the solemn charge given to him by his father in [1 Kings 2:1-9](/1_kings/2-1-9 "1 Kings 2:1-9 - David's Final Instructions to Solomon").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Build (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):** This primitive root signifies "to build (literally and figuratively)." In this context, it is a direct command for Shimei to construct a dwelling. However, it carries the deeper implication of forced establishment and rootedness. It's not merely an option but an imperative to create a fixed point of residence, transforming Jerusalem into a literal and symbolic place of confinement rather than a chosen home. The act of building here represents the imposition of a new, restrictive reality.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** Derived probably from _bânâh_, this noun refers to "a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)." While literally denoting a physical structure, in this verse, "house" symbolizes Shimei's new, confined existence. It is a place of forced dwelling, a "gilded cage" that represents his loss of freedom and the king's absolute control over his movements and future. It becomes the locus of his probationary existence.
* **go not forth (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** This primitive root means "to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications." Here, it is used in the negative ("go not forth"), forming the crucial prohibitive clause of Solomon's command. It emphasizes the absolute and unequivocal nature of the restriction. This verb, paired with "any whither," leaves no room for ambiguity or partial compliance, highlighting the severity of the command and the dire consequences of its violation. It signifies a complete cessation of Shimei's previous freedom of movement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the king sent and called for Shimei":** This opening clause immediately establishes King Solomon's initiative and supreme authority. Having recently ascended to the throne and begun consolidating his power, the king actively addresses a lingering, sensitive issue from his father's reign. The formal act of "sending and calling" is a royal summons, emphasizing that Shimei is now directly accountable to the new monarch and must appear before him to receive his decree.
* **"and said unto him, Build thee an house in Jerusalem, and dwell there":** Solomon's command is precise and demanding. Shimei is not merely permitted to reside in Jerusalem but is explicitly ordered to "build" a house, signifying a forced, permanent relocation and establishment within the city's boundaries. This ensures his constant presence under the king's watchful eye, effectively transforming Jerusalem from a city of pilgrimage or trade into a place of mandatory residence and confinement specifically for him. The phrase "dwell there" reinforces the permanence and immobility of this new arrangement.
* **"and go not forth thence any whither":** This final, emphatic prohibition defines the absolute terms of Shimei's probation. He is unequivocally forbidden from leaving Jerusalem, under any circumstances, to "any whither" (to any place). This boundary is strict, non-negotiable, and absolute, making his life and safety entirely dependent on his unwavering and perfect obedience to this geographical restriction. It constitutes a severe form of house arrest, meticulously designed to prevent any subversive activity, escape, or re-engagement with his former rebellious associates.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices that enrich its meaning and foreshadow future events. **Foreshadowing** is prominently featured, as Solomon's strict command and the dire, implicit warning of consequences for disobedience directly predict Shimei's eventual downfall. The absolute nature of the prohibition, "go not forth thence any whither," meticulously sets the stage for the inevitable conflict and fatal consequence when Shimei later violates this boundary, as meticulously detailed in [1 Kings 2:42-46](/1_kings/2-42-46 "1 Kings 2:42-46 - Shimei's Disobedience and Death"). There is also a powerful element of **Symbolism** embedded in Jerusalem itself. While the capital city represents the heart of the kingdom, the seat of royal power, and God's chosen dwelling place, for Shimei, it paradoxically becomes a literal and metaphorical cage, symbolizing his loss of freedom and the king's unyielding authority over his life. The stark contrast between Jerusalem as a place of blessing and security for the faithful and a place of confinement and judgment for the disloyal adds significant depth to the narrative. Furthermore, the passage subtly employs **Irony**, as Shimei, who once freely and audaciously cursed the anointed king in the open country during David's flight, is now confined to the very city that embodies the king's power, his movements severely restricted by the very authority he once openly defied.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This episode profoundly illustrates the biblical principle of divine justice and the inescapable consequences of sin, particularly rebellion against God's anointed authority. While Solomon acts as an earthly king, his actions reflect a broader theological truth that God holds individuals meticulously accountable for their words and deeds. Shimei's confinement in Jerusalem is a tangible manifestation of the "wages of sin" – a severe restriction of freedom and a life lived under the constant threat of impending judgment. It underscores the profound importance of genuine repentance and humble submission to legitimate authority, whether human or divine, as a pathway to life and blessing. The narrative also highlights God's overarching sovereignty over kings, demonstrating how even human rulers are instruments in His divine plan to establish order, execute justice, and prepare the way for the ultimate King, whose reign is characterized by perfect righteousness and peace.

* [2 Samuel 16:5](/2_samuel/16-5 "2 Samuel 16:5 - Shimei Curses King David")
* [1 Kings 2:8-9](/1_kings/2-8-9 "1 Kings 2:8-9 - David's Charge Regarding Shimei")
* [1 Kings 2:42-46](/1_kings/2-42-46 "1 Kings 2:42-46 - Shimei's Disobedience and Death")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The poignant narrative of Shimei and Solomon's meticulously crafted command offers timeless and profound lessons for believers navigating life in a world marked by both divine order and human fallenness. It serves as a powerful reminder that our actions, particularly those involving disrespect, rebellion, or defiance against established authority—whether God-ordained or human—carry significant consequences, even if those consequences are delayed. Just as King Solomon set clear, non-negotiable boundaries for Shimei's existence, God, in His infinite wisdom and love, consistently establishes clear parameters for our lives through His infallible Word and the guiding presence of His Holy Spirit. Obedience within these divine boundaries leads to profound blessing, spiritual protection, and a life harmoniously aligned with His perfect will. Disobedience, conversely, can lead to spiritual confinement, a loss of true freedom, and ultimately, the bitter taste of judgment. This passage challenges us to deeply consider our own posture of submission to God's ultimate authority, to cultivate a profound respect for the authorities He has strategically placed over us (be they governmental, ecclesiastical, or familial), and to grasp the liberating truth that genuine freedom is not found in boundless autonomy or self-will, but in joyful, wholehearted obedience to His perfect and good will. It prompts us to prayerfully examine our hearts for any lingering rebellion, unaddressed sin, or unconfessed defiance that might be holding us captive, urging us to seek true liberation and spiritual flourishing through sincere repentance and humble submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I typically respond to boundaries and rules, whether they are divinely revealed or humanly established? Do I perceive them as restrictive impositions or as protective guidelines?**
* **In what specific areas of my life might I be experiencing a form of "confinement" or limitation due to past disobedience, unconfessed sin, or a persistent refusal to submit to God's revealed will?**
* **How does the principle of accountability for actions, so vividly illustrated in Shimei's case, apply to my own words, attitudes, and deeds in my daily walk with God and others?**
* **What profound insights does this passage offer me regarding the nature of true authority (both divine and human) and the critical importance of respecting those whom God has placed in positions of leadership?**

### FAQ
**Why didn't Solomon simply execute Shimei immediately, given David's charge?**

Answer: Solomon's decision to confine Shimei to Jerusalem rather than execute him immediately demonstrates his profound strategic wisdom and a meticulously measured approach to consolidating his newly established power. While King David had indeed charged Solomon to deal with Shimei, he deliberately left the specific method to Solomon's discerning wisdom ([1 Kings 2:9](/1_kings/2-9 "1 Kings 2:9 - David's Charge to Solomon Regarding Shimei")). Solomon likely sought to achieve several crucial objectives: first, to establish his authority and firmness without appearing overly vengeful or tyrannical at the very outset of his reign, thereby securing broader public support; second, to provide a clear, conditional test of Shimei's loyalty and obedience, offering him a chance to demonstrate submission; and third, to effectively neutralize a potential threat by keeping him under close, constant surveillance within the capital city of Jerusalem, thereby preventing him from stirring up trouble or gathering support in his home territory of Benjamin. This probationary period allowed Solomon to deal with Shimei justly and decisively when he later violated the explicit terms of his confinement ([1 Kings 2:42-46](/1_kings/2-42-46 "1 Kings 2:42-46 - Shimei's Disobedience and Death")), ensuring that his ultimate execution was a clear and unavoidable consequence of his own actions, rather than an arbitrary or capricious act by the king.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Shimei's confinement under Solomon's rule, a king renowned for his unparalleled wisdom and the unprecedented consolidation of his kingdom, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and eternal reign of Christ. Just as Solomon meticulously established order and decisively dealt with all threats to his earthly throne, Jesus, the true and greater Son of David and the King of Kings, establishes His eternal kingdom and exercises perfect, divine justice. Shimei's forced dwelling in Jerusalem, a city divinely intended to be a place of safety, blessing, and God's presence, yet paradoxically becoming a place of confinement due to his past rebellion, points to the profound theological truth that true freedom and security are found exclusively within the boundaries of Christ's sovereign reign. Those who stubbornly reject Him remain "outside" His grace, confined by the chains of their sin and rebellion, ultimately facing eternal judgment, as solemnly declared in [John 3:18](/john/3-18 "John 3:18 - Condemnation for Unbelief"). Conversely, those who, by faith, "build their house" upon the unshakeable foundation of Christ and "dwell" securely in Him are granted true spiritual liberty and eternal life, finding their ultimate security, blessing, and belonging within the glorious "Jerusalem above" ([Galatians 4:26](/galatians/4-26 "Galatians 4:26 - Jerusalem Above") or [Revelation 21:2-4](/revelation/21-2-4 "Revelation 21:2-4 - The New Jerusalem Descends")), where there is no "going forth" from His glorious presence, and no curse ([Revelation 22:3-5](/revelation/22-3-5 "Revelation 22:3-5 - No More Curse, God's Presence")). Christ's authority is not merely a temporal confinement but an eternal establishment of perfect righteousness, offering a secure and everlasting dwelling for all who humbly obey His voice, while those who refuse to remain in Him face the ultimate and eternal consequences of their rebellion against the King of Glory ([John 15:6](/john/15-6 "John 15:6 - Remaining in Christ and Its Consequences")).

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 2:8

And, behold, [thou hast] with thee Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite of Bahurim, which cursed me with a grievous curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim: but he came down to meet me at Jordan, and I sware to him by the LORD, saying, I will not put thee to death with the sword.

1 Kings 2:9

Now therefore hold him not guiltless: for thou [art] a wise man, and knowest what thou oughtest to do unto him; but his hoar head bring thou down to the grave with blood.

2 Samuel 16:5

¶ And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of the family of the house of Saul, whose name [was] Shimei, the son of Gera: he came forth, and cursed still as he came.

2 Samuel 16:9

Then said Abishai the son of Zeruiah unto the king, Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? let me go over, I pray thee, and take off his head.

Proverbs 20:8

¶ A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes.

2 Samuel 14:28

¶ So Absalom dwelt two full years in Jerusalem, and saw not the king's face.

1 Kings 1:53

So king Solomon sent, and they brought him down from the altar. And he came and bowed himself to king Solomon: and Solomon said unto him, Go to thine house.