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Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 1 - Verse 18

1:18
And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not:

Meaning

When the phrase 'And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not:' is examined in its context in the Bible, it reveals a pivotal moment in the story of King David and his kingdom. This verse from the book of 1 Kings signifies the clandestine attempt by Adonijah, David's son, to seize the throne while David was still alive and unaware of his son's actions. The verse serves as a warning to King David, informing him of Adonijah's unauthorized reign and the potential threat it poses to the stability of the kingdom. It highlights the political intrigue, power struggles, and familial conflicts that characterized the biblical narrative. Ultimately, this verse underscores the importance of vigilance, wisdom, and discernment in leadership, as even those closest to the king may harbor ambitions that could endanger the realm. In the larger biblical context, this verse also sets the stage for the succession crisis that would unfold after David's death, leading to further turmoil and division among his descendants.

Theological Overview

In this verse from 1 Kings 1:11, Bathsheba reveals to King David that Adonijah is attempting to take the throne without David's knowledge. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of loyalty and obedience to God's chosen leaders. Adonijah's actions are seen as a challenge to the authority that God had bestowed upon David as the rightful king of Israel. By keeping the news of Adonijah's attempted coup from David, Bathsheba emphasizes the need for transparency and honesty in relationships, especially within the context of royal succession in ancient Israel. A word study of the term "reigneth" could further underscore the significance of kingship and the divine right to rule, as well as the potential dangers of disobedience and rebellion against God's appointed leaders. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning ourselves with God's will and submitting to His authority in all aspects of our lives.

American Standard Version

And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and thou, my lord the king, knowest it not:
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