Definition: And she said, Let Abishag the Shunammite be given to Adonijah thy brother to wife.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 2:21. It’s a significant and somewhat surprising moment in the story of David and his relationship with King Solomon. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Situation: David was married to Bathsheba: This is the core of the story. David had a marriage to Bathsheba, but she became pregnant. Abishag is a Shunammite woman: Shunammites were a specific group of women who lived among temple workers and servants. They were often treated with a degree of kindness and hospitality. They weren’t wealthy, but they were respected for their loyalty. What Happened in Verse 21? She says "Let Abishag be given to Adonijah..." This is the crucial part. David’s wife, Abishag, requests that she be married to Adonijah, who was Solomon's brother. He was a powerful and ambitious man. What Does It Mean? This verse isn’t about a romantic relationship between David and Abishag. It’s a strategic move by David. Here's what it signifies: David needed a wife: He was facing a serious problem – he wasn’t able to conceive a child for Bathsheba, and his marriage to her was causing him grief. Adonijah offered a solution: He offered Abishag to Solomon's brother, Adonijah, as a means of securing a child for David. This was a way for David to maintain his position in the kingdom and potentially secure his future. It’s a bit complex, but here’s the key takeaway: It wasn't about love or desire. It was a calculated act of political maneuvering. David was prioritizing his own stability and future over romantic relationships. In short, verse 21 is a pivotal moment that highlights David's ambition, strategic thinking, and a willingness to make difficult choices for the good of his position within the kingdom. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of this story? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger narrative of 1 Kings? Compare it to other stories with similar themes (like David's relationship with Bathsheba)?