Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 1 - Verse 2

In this verse, the servants are advising King David to find a young virgin to be a companion and caretaker for him. The purpose of this arrangement is to provide physical warmth to the aging king. In ancient times, the idea of using a young woman's body heat to keep an older person warm was a common practice. The young virgin would lie in the king's bosom, not in a romantic or sexual sense, but to provide comfort and warmth. This was especially important in a time when heating options were limited. This verse also illustrates the custom of having a young woman serve as a companion to a king, providing emotional support and care. It highlights the importance of physical touch and human connection in maintaining the well-being of an individual, especially someone in a position of power like a king.

The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the cultural context and the actions taken by King David's servants to find a young virgin to provide him warmth and comfort in his old age. Some scholars suggest that this practice was common in ancient times to help maintain the physical health of older individuals. The word "cherish" in this context may imply the young virgin providing emotional support and care to the king. Additionally, the phrase "lie in thy bosom" may symbolize intimacy and closeness, which signifies the deep level of care and attention the young virgin was expected to provide. Overall, this verse can be seen as a reflection of the societal norms and customs of that time, shedding light on the role of young women in serving and caring for the needs of the king.