1 Kings 2:17 – “So he continued, ‘Please ask King Solomon—he will not refuse you—to give me Abishag the Shunammite as my wife.'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Adonijah makes a request through Bathsheba, asking her to speak to King Solomon on his behalf. He desires to marry Abishag the Shunammite, who had been a servant to King David in his old age. Abishag was brought in to care for David, and while she was not his wife, she held a position of closeness and honor in the king’s household. Adonijah’s request may seem harmless on the surface, but it likely had deeper political implications. In the culture of the time, marrying a woman who had been connected to the previous king could be seen as a claim to the throne, making Adonijah’s request more about power than romance.
Historical Context
Adonijah had already made an unsuccessful attempt to claim the throne before Solomon was officially made king. Although Solomon had spared his life, this request for Abishag was likely seen as a threat. In the royal family, marrying someone like Abishag, who had been associated with King David, could be viewed as a subtle claim to the former king’s authority. Solomon, as the reigning king, would have seen this as a political move by Adonijah to strengthen his influence. Historically, this type of request was not uncommon as a way to assert legitimacy in royal transitions, and Solomon would have understood the underlying intent.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the tension between human ambition and God’s ordained authority. Adonijah’s request reveals that he had not fully accepted God’s choice of Solomon as king. Despite knowing that the kingdom had passed to Solomon by God’s will, Adonijah still sought to advance his position. This reflects the broader struggle many people face in submitting to God’s authority, especially when it conflicts with personal desires or ambitions. The verse reminds us that true submission to God’s will requires laying down our own ambitions and trusting in His plan, even when it means accepting outcomes we may not prefer.
Literary Analysis
Adonijah’s choice of words is significant. The phrase “he will not refuse you” reveals his confidence in Bathsheba’s influence over Solomon, indicating that he believes she can sway the king in his favor. The request seems polite and humble on the surface, but there is a sense of manipulation beneath it. Adonijah is trying to use family dynamics and political maneuvering to achieve his goals. The literary tension here is clear: while the request is framed as a simple matter of marriage, it carries deeper implications that will soon become evident in the narrative.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Samuel 3:7-8: This passage tells of a similar situation where Abner took Saul’s concubine, and it was seen as a claim to power. This reinforces the idea that Adonijah’s request for Abishag was likely a political move.
- Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Adonijah’s ambition and lack of humility reflect the truth of this proverb, as his desire for power leads to his downfall.
- James 4:3: “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives.” Adonijah’s request is rooted in selfish ambition, not in a genuine desire to do what is right.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a warning against using manipulation or hidden motives to achieve personal goals. While Adonijah’s request seemed innocent, it carried ulterior motives that were self-serving. This verse challenges believers to examine their own motives when making requests or seeking advancement. Are we seeking to fulfill God’s will, or are we driven by personal ambition? It also reminds us to be cautious in our dealings with others, ensuring that our actions are rooted in integrity and not in an attempt to gain power or influence for ourselves.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love for His people includes His protection over His plans and purposes. In this story, God had chosen Solomon as king, and His love for Israel was demonstrated by ensuring that His will was carried out, even when others tried to interfere. God’s love is protective, not just for Solomon but for His greater plan for Israel and the coming Messiah. By preventing Adonijah from gaining influence, God was preserving the line of David and ultimately safeguarding the path that would lead to Jesus Christ.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ in its emphasis on kingship and God’s sovereign choice. Just as God chose Solomon to be king, He chose Jesus to be the eternal King. Unlike Adonijah, who sought power for himself, Jesus laid down His life and did not seek earthly power. Jesus teaches us what true leadership and kingship look like—serving others, laying aside personal ambition, and submitting to God’s will. Philippians 2:5-8 reminds us of Christ’s humility, which stands in stark contrast to Adonijah’s self-serving ambition.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there areas in your life where you might be pursuing your own ambitions rather than submitting to God’s plan?
- How can you ensure that your requests and desires are rooted in a desire to honor God, rather than seeking personal gain?
- In what ways does Jesus’ example of humility challenge you to live differently, especially when it comes to leadership or influence?