1 Kings 2:20

"I have just one small request of you," she said. "Do not deny me." "Make your request, my mother," the king replied, "for I will not deny you."

Study Bible

I have just one small request of you,
This phrase is spoken by Bathsheba, the mother of King Solomon, as she approaches him with a request. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, a queen mother held a significant position of influence and respect. Bathsheba's approach to Solomon reflects the protocol and respect due to a king, even from his own mother. The use of "small request" suggests humility and an appeal to Solomon's sense of duty and familial loyalty.

she said.
This indicates Bathsheba's direct communication with Solomon. In the narrative of 1 Kings, Bathsheba's role is pivotal, as she was instrumental in securing Solomon's succession to the throne. Her speech here is part of a larger narrative where she intercedes on behalf of Adonijah, Solomon's older brother, who had previously attempted to usurp the throne.

Do not deny me.
This plea underscores the seriousness of Bathsheba's request. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, a request from a mother, especially a queen mother, carried significant weight. The phrase "do not deny me" is a common idiom in biblical literature, often used to express earnestness and the expectation of a favorable response. It reflects the relational dynamics and the expectation of honor and obedience within the family structure.

Make your request, my mother,
Solomon's response shows respect and acknowledgment of Bathsheba's position. By addressing her as "my mother," Solomon affirms her authority and the special bond they share. This interaction highlights the importance of family ties and the respect for parental figures in biblical narratives. Solomon's willingness to hear her request demonstrates his wisdom and understanding of the cultural norms of honoring one's parents.

the king replied,
This phrase emphasizes Solomon's royal status and authority. As king, Solomon had the power to grant or deny requests, and his response is significant in the context of his reign. The narrative of 1 Kings often contrasts Solomon's wisdom and discernment with the political and familial challenges he faces. His reply here is measured and respectful, indicative of his character as portrayed in the biblical text.

for I will not deny you.
Solomon's assurance to Bathsheba reflects his commitment to honor her request, highlighting the cultural expectation of filial piety. This promise also sets the stage for the unfolding events, where Solomon must balance personal loyalty with his kingly duties. The phrase can be seen as a foreshadowing of the challenges Solomon will face in maintaining justice and righteousness, themes central to his reign and wisdom literature. Solomon's willingness to grant Bathsheba's request can be seen as a type of Christ, who also fulfills the requests of those who come to Him in faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bathsheba
The mother of King Solomon, Bathsheba approaches her son with a request. Her role as the queen mother gives her a position of influence in the royal court.

2. King Solomon
The son of David and Bathsheba, Solomon is the newly anointed king of Israel. His response to his mother reflects both respect and the weight of his royal authority.

3. The Royal Court
The setting is the royal court of Israel, where matters of state and personal requests are brought before the king.

4. Adonijah's Request
The context of this verse involves Adonijah, Solomon's older brother, who previously attempted to claim the throne. Bathsheba's request is on behalf of Adonijah, which has political implications.

5. The Throne of Israel
The central symbol of authority and governance in Israel, representing God's covenant with David and his descendants.

Teaching Points

Respect for Parental Authority
Solomon's willingness to listen to Bathsheba demonstrates the biblical principle of honoring one's parents, which is foundational in Christian ethics.

Wisdom in Leadership
Solomon's response shows the importance of discernment and wisdom in leadership, especially when dealing with family and political matters.

The Influence of Godly Counsel
Bathsheba's position as queen mother highlights the impact of godly counsel and influence in the lives of leaders.

The Complexity of Family Dynamics
The request involves navigating complex family relationships, reminding us of the need for grace and wisdom in our own family interactions.

The Sovereignty of God in Leadership
Despite human plans and requests, God's sovereign will ultimately prevails, as seen in Solomon's reign.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's response to Bathsheba reflect the biblical command to honor one's parents, and how can we apply this in our own family relationships?

2. In what ways does the context of Adonijah's previous actions influence the significance of Bathsheba's request to Solomon?

3. How can we seek and apply godly wisdom in our leadership roles, whether in the family, church, or workplace?

4. What lessons can we learn from the dynamics between Bathsheba, Solomon, and Adonijah about handling complex family situations?

5. How does the promise of God to David about his descendants ruling Israel provide assurance of God's sovereignty in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:12
This verse emphasizes the importance of honoring one's parents, which is reflected in Solomon's respectful response to Bathsheba.

Proverbs 31:1-9
These verses, attributed to King Lemuel, traditionally understood as Solomon, highlight the influence of a mother’s teaching on a king, paralleling Bathsheba’s role.

1 Kings 1:5-53
Provides background on Adonijah's previous attempt to usurp the throne, setting the stage for Bathsheba's request.

2 Samuel 7:12-16
God's promise to David about his descendants ruling Israel, which underscores the significance of Solomon's reign.