Definition: And Adonijah the son of Haggith came to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon. And she said, Comest thou peaceably? And he said, Peaceably.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 2:13. It’s a really important and somewhat tense moment in the story of David's reign. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Adonijah is challenging himself: Adonijah, who was King of Judah, is trying to usurp the throne from Solomon, the wise king. He’s essentially saying he wants to be king too. Bathsheba is the mother of Solomon: Bathsheba is the mother of King David. She’s a crucial figure in this story because she's the one who gives birth to David. She asks him about peace: Bathsheba, concerned about potential conflict, asks Adonijah if he’s coming to her with peace. The Core Meaning - It’s a Test of Intent: This verse is a crucial clue to understanding the events that follow. Bathsheba isn't just asking him politely; she’s concerned about whether his intentions are truly peaceful. She’s subtly suggesting he might be plotting something against her and Solomon. In essence, it means Adonijah is trying to stir up trouble and challenge the established order. He's attempting to create a situation where conflict could arise. Why is this important? It sets the stage for a significant conflict that will ultimately lead to David’s rise to power. It highlights his ambition and the potential danger he represents. --- Do you want me to: Explain what biblical context this verse comes from (briefly)? Discuss the significance of the word "peaceably" in this situation? Give you a little more detail about the events leading up to this verse?