1 Kings Chapter 11 · Verse 39
And I will for this afflict the seed of David, but not for ever.
Original Language Analysis
וַֽאעַנֶּ֛ה
And I will for this afflict
H6031
וַֽאעַנֶּ֛ה
And I will for this afflict
Strong's:
H6031
Word #:
1 of 10
to depress literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as follows)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
זֶ֥רַע
the seed
H2233
זֶ֥רַע
the seed
Strong's:
H2233
Word #:
3 of 10
seed; figuratively, fruit, plant, sowing-time, posterity
לְמַ֣עַן
H4616
לְמַ֣עַן
Strong's:
H4616
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that
אַ֖ךְ
H389
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
8 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Cross References
Isaiah 9:7Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.Luke 2:11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Historical Context
First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE) represented Israel's golden age of peace and prosperity.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Questions for Reflection
- How did Solomon's disobedience to God's clear commands lead to his downfall, and what warnings does this provide?
- What role do relationships and alliances play in either strengthening or compromising our faith?
- How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?
Analysis & Commentary
And I will for this afflict the seed of David, but not for ever.
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's apostasy and death, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.