Old Testament
1 Kings 11:32
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(Solomon will keep one tribe — for the sake of my servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, the city I chose from among all the tribes of Israel.)
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(But he shall have one tribe for my servant David’s sake, and for Jerusalem’s sake, the city which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel:)
What 1 Kings 11:32 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is telling Solomon that he will keep one tribe for him. This decision is made for two important reasons: first, because of God's promise to David, Solomon's father, and second, because of Jerusalem, the city that God chose as a special place. This shows how God honors commitments and values the history of His people. Even when things go wrong, God remains faithful to His promises. The tribe that will remain is a reminder of God's love and the importance of Jerusalem in His plan. It highlights the significance of loyalty and the impact of past leaders on future generations. Solomon's actions will have consequences, but God's mercy ensures that a part of His promise will endure. This moment reflects the balance between divine justice and grace, reminding us that our choices can affect not just ourselves but also those who come after us. God’s faithfulness is a central theme, showing that He keeps His word even when circumstances change dramatically.
How to apply 1 Kings 11:32 to your life
Reflect on the importance of your choices and how they can impact others. Consider the legacy you want to leave behind. Just as God honored David, think about how you can honor those who have influenced your life positively. Stay committed to your values and relationships, knowing they matter in the long run. Your actions today shape tomorrow's reality for others around you.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: Adversaries, and a Torn Cloak (1 Kings 11:14–40)
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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 11:32
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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 11:32 mean?
1 Kings 11:32 means that God will allow Solomon to keep one tribe of Israel due to His promise to David and the significance of Jerusalem. This shows God's commitment to His promises and the importance of Jerusalem in His plan.
What is the significance of Jerusalem in 1 Kings 11:32?
In 1 Kings 11:32, Jerusalem is highlighted as the city chosen by God, symbolizing His presence and the center of worship for His people. Its significance reflects God's ongoing relationship with Israel and His faithfulness to His promises.
Why does God keep one tribe for David's sake in 1 Kings 11:32?
God keeps one tribe for David's sake in 1 Kings 11:32 to honor His covenant with David, ensuring that David's lineage continues to have a place in Israel. This demonstrates God's loyalty to His promises despite the failures of subsequent leaders.
What does this verse reveal about God's promises?
This verse reveals that God's promises are steadfast and enduring, even in the face of human failure. It emphasizes that God remains faithful to His commitments, ensuring that part of His covenant with David is preserved.
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