Definition: 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.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 2:22. It’s a really important and complex passage that tells us about King Solomon’s character and his plans. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Situation: King Solomon was very ambitious. He wanted to be the most powerful king in Israel, and he had a plan to make it happen. He was looking for help from someone who wasn’t royal. His mother, Abishag, had brought him up as a servant, and she wanted to see him marry someone of higher status – a princess. She thought this would be good for his future. He asked for Adonijah (which means "son" or "lord") specifically. What the Verse Means: This verse is essentially saying: “I want to have Adonijah as my husband, and I need your help to get him a position of power.” It’s not just about wanting him to be married to her; it’s about him having a significant role in the kingdom. Here's what it implies: He was seeking favor. Solomon wasn't just asking for a comfortable life; he wanted to be treated with respect and given opportunities. He valued loyalty and service. He was recognizing that Abishag’s position was important, and he wanted to have her as a partner in his rule. He recognized Adonijah's importance. The verse explicitly states he wants him to be “mine elder brother,” implying a strong bond of kinship and respect. Important Context (Briefly): This is a crucial part of the story of Solomon’s building of the Temple in Jerusalem. It highlights his desire for power and his willingness to seek help from others, even those who weren't part of his royal lineage. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss a particular aspect of this passage (like its historical significance)?