Old Testament
1 Kings 2:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He said, "Please ask King Solomon — he won't refuse you — to give me Abishag the Shunammite as my wife."
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And he said, Speak, I pray thee, unto Solomon the king, (for he will not say thee nay,) that he give me Abishag the Shunammite to wife.
What 1 Kings 2:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a man is asking for a favor from King Solomon. He believes that Solomon will grant his request without hesitation. The man wants to marry Abishag, a woman from Shunem, who had cared for King David in his old age. This request is significant because it reflects the man's desire for power and status. Marrying Abishag could elevate his position in society. The request also highlights the complexities of relationships and the lengths people will go to for personal gain. It shows how personal desires can intertwine with political ambitions. This moment sets the stage for future conflicts in the royal family, illustrating how personal relationships can impact larger events. The man's confidence in Solomon's willingness to help reveals a trust in the new king's character, but it also foreshadows the challenges that come with leadership and the expectations placed on those in power. Ultimately, this verse encapsulates the intricate dance of loyalty, ambition, and the human heart.
How to apply 1 Kings 2:17 to your life
When seeking help from others, consider the motivations behind your requests. Are they purely for personal gain, or do they serve a greater purpose? Building trust and understanding in relationships can lead to more meaningful connections and outcomes. Reflect on how your desires align with your values and the impact they have on others' lives. This awareness can guide your actions wisely and compassionately.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: The Kingdom Made Secure (1 Kings 2:13–46)
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Solomon
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying 1 Kings 2:17
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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 2:17 mean?
1 Kings 2:17 describes a man asking King Solomon for the hand of Abishag the Shunammite in marriage. This request highlights the man's ambition and desire for power, as marrying Abishag could enhance his status.
What is the significance of Abishag in 1 Kings 2:17?
Abishag was a young woman who cared for King David in his old age, and her marriage to another man could symbolize a claim to David's legacy. This request for her hand reflects the political implications of personal relationships in the royal family.
What does the phrase 'he won't refuse you' mean in 1 Kings 2:17?
The phrase 'he won't refuse you' indicates the man's confidence in King Solomon's willingness to grant requests. It suggests a belief in Solomon's character and the expectation that he will be generous and accommodating.
What themes are present in 1 Kings 2:17?
Key themes in 1 Kings 2:17 include ambition, trust, and the complexities of political relationships. The verse illustrates how personal desires can intertwine with power dynamics and influence future events in the royal family.
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