1 kings 1:12 - Now therefore come, please let me give you counsel, that you may save your own life, and your son Solomon’s life.

Generated Verse: 1 kings 1:12

What does "1 kings 1:12" mean?


This verse, 1 Kings 1:12, is spoken by the prophet Nathan to Bathsheba. Here's a breakdown of what it means in the context of the story:

"Now therefore come, please let me give you counsel..." Nathan is approaching Bathsheba with urgency and a promise of advice. The use of "now therefore" suggests that something is happening that requires immediate action.

"...that you may save your own life, and your son Solomon’s life." This is the crux of the verse. Nathan is telling Bathsheba that their lives are in danger. This threat is a direct result of Adonijah, one of David's other sons, trying to seize the throne while King David is old and weak.

In summary, Nathan is warning Bathsheba that Adonijah's attempt to become king poses a serious threat to both her and her son, Solomon. He offers to give her advice on how to navigate this dangerous situation and protect their lives.

To understand the urgency and threat, you need to know the background:

Succession Crisis: King David is old and near death. He hasn't publicly named his successor.
Adonijah's Ambition: Adonijah believes he should be king and is actively trying to secure the throne by gathering supporters.
Solomon as the Chosen Heir: God had promised David that Solomon would be his successor, and David, although perhaps delayed in action, had planned for Solomon to be king.
Danger to Bathsheba and Solomon: If Adonijah succeeds in taking the throne, he is likely to eliminate any potential rivals, including Bathsheba (as the king's mother) and Solomon (the divinely appointed heir).

Nathan's advice to Bathsheba will involve reminding King David of his promise to make Solomon king and urging him to publicly declare Solomon as his successor before Adonijah solidifies his power.