1 Kings 2:22
And king Solomon answered and said unto his mother, And why dost thou ask Abishag the Shunammite for Adonijah? ask for him the kingdom also; for he is mine elder brother; even for him, and for Abiathar the priest, and for Joab the son of Zeruiah.
1 Kings 2:22 · King James Version
Meaning
King Solomon's response to his mother's request for Abishag the Shunammite on behalf of Adonijah is a significant moment in biblical history. In this verse, Solomon questions his mother's intentions, asking her why she would request the same woman for Adonijah who had previously sought to claim the kingdom from him. By mentioning Abiathar the priest and Joab the son of Zeruiah alongside Adonijah, Solomon is highlighting the potential threat these individuals pose to his rule. The verse sheds light on the complex dynamics within the royal family and the political landscape during Solomon's reign. It showcases the struggles for power and influence that were prevalent in the biblical narrative. This exchange between King Solomon and his mother serves as a cautionary tale about loyalty, ambition, and the challenges of maintaining authority in a kingdom. It reveals Solomon's shrewdness and strategic thinking in navigating the intricate webs of power and relationships in his kingdom.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 1 Kings 2:22, King Solomon responds to his mother Bathsheba's request regarding Adonijah's desire to marry Abishag the Shunammite. Solomon questions his mother's motives, wondering why she would ask for something that could potentially give Adonijah a claim to the throne. By invoking the concept of primogeniture, where the eldest son has the right to inherit the kingship, Solomon asserts his own legitimacy as the rightful heir to the throne after King David. He views Adonijah's request not just as a marriage proposal, but as a political maneuver to challenge his authority. Solomon mentions Abiathar the priest and Joab, further highlighting potential threats to his reign. This interaction reveals the complex power dynamics and political intrigue within the royal family, shedding light on Solomon's efforts to consolidate his rule and secure his position as king.
1 Kings 2:22 in other translations
American Standard Version
And king Solomon answered and said unto his mother, And why dost thou ask Abishag the Shunammite for Adonijah? ask for him the kingdom also; for he is mine elder brother; even for him, and for Abiathar the priest, and for Joab the son of Zeruiah.
World English Bible
King Solomon answered his mother, “Why do you ask Abishag the Shunammite for Adonijah? Ask for him the kingdom also; for he is my elder brother; even for him, and for Abiathar the priest, and for Joab the son of Zeruiah.”
Douay-Rheims
And king Solomon answered, and said to his mother: Why dost thou ask Abisag, the Sunamitess, for Adonias? ask for him also the kingdom; for he is my elder brother, and hath Abiathar, the priest, and Joab, the son of Sarvia.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But King Salomon answered and sayd vnto his mother, And why doest thou aske Abishag the Shunammite for Adonijah? aske for him the kingdome also: for he is mine elder brother, and hath for him both Abiathar the Priest, and Ioab the sonne of Zeruiah.