The term "Shunammite" refers to an individual originating from the ancient city of Shunem, located in the territory of Issachar in the northern part of Israel. The Shunammite woman is notably mentioned in the context of the early monarchy period of Israel, particularly in the narrative involving King David's son, Adonijah.

Biblical Context and Narrative

The most prominent Shunammite in the Bible is Abishag, a young woman from Shunem who was brought to King David in his old age to serve as his attendant and to keep him warm. This account is found in 1 Kings 1:1-4 : "Now King David was old and advanced in years, and though they covered him with blankets, he could not get warm. So his servants said to him, 'Let us search for a young virgin for my lord the king. She can attend to him and be his nurse. She will lie beside you so that my lord the king may get warm.' Then they searched throughout Israel for a beautiful girl and found Abishag the Shunammite, and they brought her to the king. The girl was very beautiful, and she cared for the king and served him, but he had no relations with her."

Abishag's role, while seemingly minor, becomes significant in the political intrigue following King David's death. Adonijah, David's son, who had previously attempted to claim the throne, sought to marry Abishag. This request is recorded in 1 Kings 2:13-17 : "Now Adonijah son of Haggith went to Bathsheba, the mother of Solomon, and she asked, 'Do you come in peace?' 'Yes, in peace,' he replied. Then he said, 'I have something to say to you.' 'Say it,' she answered. 'You know that the kingship was mine,' he said. 'All Israel expected me to reign, but the kingship has turned to my brother, for it has come to him from the LORD. So now I have just one request of you; do not deny me.' 'State your request,' she told him. Adonijah replied, 'Please speak to King Solomon, since he will not turn you down. Let him give me Abishag the Shunammite as my wife.'"

Adonijah's request to marry Abishag was not merely a personal desire but carried political implications. In the ancient Near Eastern context, taking a former king's concubine or attendant could be seen as a claim to the throne. Solomon, perceiving this as a threat to his reign, responded decisively. In 1 Kings 2:22-25 , Solomon's reaction is recorded: "King Solomon answered his mother, 'Why do you request Abishag the Shunammite for Adonijah? You might as well request the kingship for him—after all, he is my older brother—yes, for him and for Abiathar the priest and for Joab son of Zeruiah.' Then King Solomon swore by the LORD: 'May God punish me, and ever so severely, if Adonijah has not made this request at the cost of his life. And now, as surely as the LORD lives—the One who has established me and set me on the throne of my father David and who has made me a house as He promised—surely Adonijah shall be put to death today!' So King Solomon sent the order to Benaiah son of Jehoiada, who struck down Adonijah, and he died."

Cultural and Theological Significance

The narrative of the Shunammite woman, Abishag, highlights the complex interplay of personal relationships and political power in the biblical monarchy. Her account underscores the vulnerability of women in ancient times, often caught in the machinations of royal politics. Additionally, the account illustrates the divine providence in the establishment of Solomon's reign, as any threat to the divinely ordained kingship was swiftly addressed.

The Shunammite's account also serves as a reminder of the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over the affairs of nations and individuals, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled despite human schemes and ambitions.1 Kings 2:13-25
And Adonijah the son of Haggith came to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon. And she said, Come you peaceably? And he said, Peaceably.
Nave's Topical Index

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... likely to be as keenly felt as wounds inflicted on his person. ... be his youngest brother
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