Old Testament
1 Kings 13:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
After the burial of the man of God, the old prophet expressed a deep desire to be laid to rest alongside him.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
After the burial, the old prophet told his sons, "When I die, bury me in the same tomb where the man of God is buried. Lay my bones right beside his bones.
And it came to pass, after he had buried him, that he spake to his sons, saying, When I am dead, then bury me in the sepulchre wherein the man of God is buried; lay my bones beside his bones:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
After the burial of the man of God, the old prophet expressed a deep desire to be laid to rest alongside him. This request highlights the old prophet's recognition of the man of God's significance and the bond they shared, despite the old prophet's earlier actions. He wanted to be remembered in connection with someone who had faithfully served God. This moment reflects the importance of legacy and how we wish to be remembered after we are gone. The old prophet's request shows a desire for unity in death, symbolizing a hope for redemption and connection. It serves as a reminder that our choices and relationships can impact how we are remembered. Ultimately, it emphasizes the value of honoring those who have influenced our lives, even if we have made mistakes. This story encourages us to think about our own legacies and the relationships we cherish, urging us to live in a way that reflects our values and beliefs, so that we can leave a meaningful mark on the world around us.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Kings 13:31 to your life
Consider how you want to be remembered after you pass. Reflect on the relationships that matter most to you and how they shape your legacy. Make choices today that align with your values, ensuring that your life leaves a positive impact on others. Live in a way that honors those who have influenced you positively, creating a meaningful connection with them and your community. Your actions today can shape the memories others hold of you.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 13:31 mean?
1 Kings 13:31 describes the old prophet's wish to be buried next to the man of God, highlighting his recognition of the man's significance and their shared bond. This request symbolizes a desire for connection and legacy, reflecting on how we wish to be remembered after death.
What is the significance of the old prophet's request in 1 Kings 13:31?
The old prophet's request to be buried beside the man of God signifies his acknowledgment of the man's faithfulness and the impact he had on his life. It emphasizes themes of legacy, redemption, and the importance of honoring those who have influenced us.
What does the phrase 'lay my bones beside his bones' mean in 1 Kings 13:31?
The phrase 'lay my bones beside his bones' expresses the old prophet's desire for eternal connection with the man of God, symbolizing unity in death and a hope for redemption. It reflects the importance of relationships and how they shape our legacies.
How does 1 Kings 13:31 relate to the concept of legacy?
This verse relates to legacy by showing how the old prophet wanted to be remembered in connection with the man of God, highlighting the importance of relationships and the impact of our choices on how we are remembered after we pass.

The Book of 1 Kings
1 Kings 1: Solomon Becomes King
As King David is old and frail, his fourth son, Adonijah, makes a bid for the throne. He gathers the support of Joab, David's long-time military commander, and Abiathar the priest, and begins to act as king, complete with a royal procession. However, he does not invite the prophet Nathan, the priest Zadok, Benaiah (the captain of David's personal guard), or his own half-brother, Solomon.
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