1 Kings 11:21 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 11:21 mean?

1 Kings 11:21 describes how Hadad, while living in Egypt, learned that King David and Joab, the commander of Israel’s army, had both died. With this news, Hadad asked Pharaoh for permission to leave Egypt so he could return to his homeland.

Hadad was an Edomite prince who had fled to Egypt as a child when David’s army conquered Edom. The verse shows Hadad waiting for the deaths of David and Joab—his former enemies—before feeling safe to return. This moment sets up Hadad’s later opposition to Solomon, David’s son, as part of the troubles Solomon faced during his reign.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 11:21

• "slept" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word means "to lie down" or "to sleep," and in this context, it is a respectful way of saying that David died, joining his ancestors in death.
• "depart" (שָׁלַח, shalach): This word means "to send" or "to let go." Here, Hadad is asking Pharaoh to send him away or release him, showing that Hadad was under Pharaoh’s protection or authority.
• "country" (אֶרֶץ, erets): This word means "land" or "country." Hadad’s request is specifically to return to his own homeland, Edom, rather than just leaving Egypt for anywhere.

Why 1 Kings 11:21 matters

• The verse highlights the political changes after David’s death, showing how old enemies saw new opportunities once strong leaders were gone.
• It explains the background for Hadad’s later actions against Solomon, connecting personal motives with larger political events in Israel’s history.
• The respectful language about David’s death ("slept with his fathers") reflects how Israelite writers often spoke of their kings, emphasizing continuity and tradition.