Definition: And he said, Speak, I pray thee, unto Solomon the king, (for he will not say thee nay,) that he give me Abishag the Shunammite to wife.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 2:17. It's a pretty significant passage in the Old Testament and it speaks about a crucial agreement made between God and King Solomon. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is setting up a marriage for Solomon, the king of Israel, to ensure stability and prosperity for his kingdom. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he said…” : This tells us that God is speaking directly to King Solomon. “…that he give me Abishag the Shunammite to wife.” : This is the core of the verse. It means God wants Solomon to marry Abishag, a woman who was living with a woman named “the Shunammite” – likely a servant in the palace. What does this say about God and Solomon? God’s Favor: The phrase "speak, I pray thee, unto Solomon the king" shows that God is giving Solomon special favor and approval. He's choosing him to be married. Stability & Prosperity: This marriage isn't just a casual arrangement. It’s intended to strengthen Solomon’s kingdom – to ensure he has a good partner for leadership and to build a strong foundation for his rule. Why is this important? This verse highlights God’s plan for the future of Israel. It demonstrates that God isn't just concerned with himself but with the well-being of His people through carefully chosen relationships. It also shows a pattern in scripture – often, God works through specific arrangements to help build and protect His kingdom. In short: God is setting Solomon up for a life of leadership and prosperity by making him marry Abishag. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of the word "Shunammite"? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Israel’s history?