1 Kings Chapter 1 · Verse 22
And, lo, while she yet talked with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in.
Original Language Analysis
עוֹדֶ֥נָּה
H5750
עוֹדֶ֥נָּה
Strong's:
H5750
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more
מְדַבֶּ֖רֶת
And lo while she yet talked
H1696
מְדַבֶּ֖רֶת
And lo while she yet talked
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
3 of 8
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
עִם
H5973
עִם
Strong's:
H5973
Word #:
4 of 8
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
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. This passage describes events around 970 BCE during the transition from David to Solomon.
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 does this passage illustrate the importance of clear succession planning and communication in leadership transitions?
- What does Solomon's consolidation of power reveal about the relationship between justice, mercy, and political necessity?
- How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?
Analysis & Commentary
And, lo, while she yet talked with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in.
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of solomon's accession and adonijah's rebellion, within the book's focus on succession narrative and establishment of Solomon's reign. The prophetic office represents God's faithful witness even in apostasy, calling His people back to covenant faithfulness.
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.