Old Testament
1 Kings 11:13
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Even then, I won't take the entire kingdom away. I will leave your son one tribe — for the sake of my servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, the city I have chosen."
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Howbeit I will not rend away all the kingdom; but will give one tribe to thy son for David my servant’s sake, and for Jerusalem’s sake which I have chosen.
What 1 Kings 11:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is expressing His decision to not completely strip the kingdom from Solomon's lineage. Instead, He will allow one tribe to remain under the rule of Solomon's son. This decision is made out of respect for David, Solomon's father, and for Jerusalem, the city that holds special significance to God. It highlights God's commitment to His promises and the importance of legacy. Even when faced with disobedience, God shows mercy and maintains a connection to the past. This act of grace serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, but there is always room for hope and redemption. God's choice to preserve a part of the kingdom illustrates His desire for a continued relationship with His people, despite their failures. It emphasizes that God's plans often extend beyond our immediate circumstances, reflecting His larger purpose in history and in our lives. This moment is a pivotal point in the narrative, showcasing both divine justice and mercy.
How to apply 1 Kings 11:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the importance of our actions and their impact on future generations. Even when we make mistakes, there is always an opportunity for grace and restoration. We can strive to leave a positive legacy, just as David did, influencing those who come after us with love and wisdom. Remember, our choices matter, and they can shape the future in meaningful ways. Embrace the chance to make a difference.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: His Heart Turns Away (1 Kings 11:1–13)
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Solomon
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying 1 Kings 11:13
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 11:13 mean?
1 Kings 11:13 means that God decided not to take the entire kingdom away from Solomon's family. Instead, He would allow one tribe to remain under the rule of Solomon's son, honoring the legacy of David and the significance of Jerusalem.
What is the significance of one tribe in 1 Kings 11:13?
The one tribe mentioned in 1 Kings 11:13 represents God's mercy and commitment to His promises. It shows that despite Solomon's disobedience, God still values the lineage of David and the city of Jerusalem.
Why did God choose to leave one tribe in 1 Kings 11:13?
God chose to leave one tribe for Solomon's son to honor His servant David and the city of Jerusalem, which He had chosen. This decision reflects God's desire to maintain a connection to the past and show mercy.
How does 1 Kings 11:13 relate to legacy?
1 Kings 11:13 relates to legacy by illustrating how our actions can impact future generations. God's decision to preserve a tribe for David's lineage emphasizes the importance of leaving a positive legacy.
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