### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Bath-Shebaʻ**, represented by `{{H1339}}`, means "daughter of an oath" and identifies the mother of Solomon. It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses. The name belongs to a pivotal figure in the narrative of King David's reign and the succession of his son, Solomon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Bathsheba is first introduced when King David **sent** `{{H7971}}` and **enquired** `{{H1875}}` after her, identifying her as the wife of Uriah the Hittite [[2 Samuel 11:3]]. The aftermath of David going in to her is the subject of a psalm [[Psalms 51:1]]. Later, after Uriah's death, David comforted **Bathsheba** `{{H1339}}` his wife, and she **bare** `{{H3205}}` a son named Solomon, whom the LORD **loved** `{{H157}}` [[2 Samuel 12:24]]. Her role becomes crucial as David grew **old** `{{H2204}}`; she approached the king to secure the throne for Solomon, reminding David of his promise [[1 Kings 1:15]]. After David answered and confirmed his oath, she **bowed** `{{H6915}}` and did reverence to the king [[1 Kings 1:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of Bathsheba's life and influence:
* `{{H1732}}` **Dâvid** (loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse): Her story is inextricably linked with King **David** `{{H1732}}`, who took her as his wife and with whom she had Solomon [[2 Samuel 12:24]].
* `{{H8010}}` **Shᵉlômôh** (peaceful; Shelomah, David's successor): Bathsheba is most frequently identified as the **mother** `{{H517}}` of **Solomon** `{{H8010}}`, highlighting her primary role as the mother of the future king ([[1 Kings 1:11]], [[1 Kings 2:13]]).
* `{{H517}}` **ʼêm** (a mother): This word defines her position of honor, especially once her son is on the throne. King Solomon had a seat set for the king's **mother** `{{H517}}` at his right hand [[1 Kings 2:19]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): Bathsheba’s life unfolds within the royal court, first interacting with **king** `{{H4428}}` David [[1 Kings 1:16]] and later with **king** `{{H4428}}` Solomon [[1 Kings 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative of `{{H1339}}` carries significant thematic weight concerning the Davidic monarchy.
* **Royal Succession:** Bathsheba is central to the transfer of power. She spoke with Nathan the prophet and then directly to King David to ensure that Solomon, and not Adonijah, would **reign** `{{H4427}}` as his successor [[1 Kings 1:11]].
* **Influence and Honor:** Her position as queen mother afforded her great influence. Adonijah sought her out to **speak** `{{H1696}}` to King Solomon on his behalf [[1 Kings 2:13]]. Her status is affirmed when Solomon **rose up** `{{H6965}}` to **meet** `{{H7125}}` her and **bowed** `{{H7812}}` to her, placing her in a seat of honor [[1 Kings 2:19]].
* **Mother of the Davidic Line:** Her most enduring identity is as the **mother** `{{H517}}` of Solomon. By bearing a **son** `{{H1121}}` to David who would build the temple and continue the royal line, she became a key matriarch in Israel's history [[2 Samuel 12:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1339}}` **Bath-Shebaʻ** is far more than a name; it represents a figure of immense consequence. Initially the wife of Uriah, she becomes the wife of King David and, most importantly, the mother of King Solomon. Her actions were decisive in securing the throne for her son, thereby playing a crucial role in the fulfillment of God's promise to David and shaping the future of Israel's monarchy.
TRV