1 Kings 2:43

Why then hast thou not kept the oath of the LORD, and the commandment that I have charged thee with?

Why then hast thou not kept {H8104} the oath {H7621} of the LORD {H3068}, and the commandment {H4687} that I have charged {H6680} thee with?

Why, then, haven't you kept the oath of ADONAI and the mitzvah I charged you with?"

So why have you not kept your oath to the LORD and the command that I gave you?โ€

Why then hast thou not kept the oath of Jehovah, and the commandment that I have charged thee with?

Commentary

Context of 1 Kings 2:43

This verse captures a pivotal moment in the early reign of King Solomon, as he consolidates his power and establishes the stability of his kingdom. It is a direct confrontation between Solomon and Shimei, a man who had previously cursed King David, Solomon's father (2 Samuel 16:5). David, on his deathbed, had advised Solomon to deal with Shimei (1 Kings 2:8-9).

Solomon had initially shown mercy, confining Shimei to Jerusalem under a strict oath: if Shimei ever left the city, he would surely die (1 Kings 2:37). Shimei had agreed to this condition and swore an oath before the LORD. However, three years later, Shimei violated this solemn oath by traveling to Gath to retrieve runaway servants. Upon his return, Solomon confronted him with this rhetorical question, highlighting Shimei's blatant disregard for his word and the divine covenant.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Seriousness of Oaths and Vows: The phrase "the oath of the LORD" underscores that Shimei's promise was not merely to Solomon but was made before God. In ancient Israelite culture, an oath sworn by God's name was incredibly binding, carrying divine consequences for its breach (Numbers 30:2, Ecclesiastes 5:4-5).
  • Consequences of Disobedience: Shimei's actions demonstrate a clear pattern of rebellion and a lack of respect for authority and divine principles. His disregard for the "commandment" given by the king, coupled with the broken "oath of the LORD," sealed his fate. This passage illustrates that disobedience, especially after fair warning and a sworn commitment, leads to severe repercussions.
  • Solomon's Firm Justice: This event showcases Solomon's resolve and wisdom in governance. He allowed Shimei ample time to prove his loyalty but acted decisively when the oath was broken. His justice was not arbitrary but based on Shimei's own choices and sworn promises, ensuring stability and order in his new kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "oath" (ืฉึฐืื‘ึปืขึธื”, shevu'ah) implies a solemn declaration or promise made under a divine sanction. When linked with "of the LORD" (ื™ึฐื”ื•ึธื”, YHWH), it emphasizes that God Himself was the witness and enforcer of the agreement. Shimei's failure to keep this oath was thus an offense not only against Solomon but against God Himself, making his transgression profoundly serious.

Practical Application

The account of Shimei serves as a powerful reminder about the importance of integrity and keeping one's word. For believers, this extends to promises made to God and commitments made to others. It teaches us that:

  • Our words have weight: Especially when we make promises or commitments, they should be honored. As followers of Christ, our "yes" should mean yes, and our "no" should mean no (Matthew 5:37).
  • Disobedience has consequences: While we live under grace, the Bible consistently teaches that choices have repercussions. Ignoring clear commands or breaking solemn vows can lead to undesirable outcomes, both naturally and spiritually (Galatians 6:7).
  • God is a God of justice: Just as Solomon upheld justice in his kingdom, God ultimately ensures that justice prevails, holding all accountable for their actions and adherence to His word.
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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 21:2 (2 votes)

    And the king called the Gibeonites, and said unto them; (now the Gibeonites [were] not of the children of Israel, but of the remnant of the Amorites; and the children of Israel had sworn unto them: and Saul sought to slay them in his zeal to the children of Israel and Judah.)

  • Romans 13:5 (2 votes)

    Wherefore [ye] must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

  • Ecclesiastes 8:2 (2 votes)

    I [counsel thee] to keep the king's commandment, and [that] in regard of the oath of God.

  • 2 Chronicles 30:12 (2 votes)

    Also in Judah the hand of God was to give them one heart to do the commandment of the king and of the princes, by the word of the LORD.

  • Ezekiel 17:18 (2 votes)

    Seeing he despised the oath by breaking the covenant, when, lo, he had given his hand, and hath done all these [things], he shall not escape.

  • Ezekiel 17:19 (2 votes)

    Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; [As] I live, surely mine oath that he hath despised, and my covenant that he hath broken, even it will I recompense upon his own head.