Why then hast thou not kept the oath of the LORD, and the commandment that I have charged thee with?

1 KINGS 2:43KJV
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1 Kings 2:43 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 2:43 mean?

1 Kings 2:43 records King Solomon confronting Shimei for breaking a solemn promise made before God and for disobeying a direct command Solomon had given him. Solomon asks why Shimei failed to keep both the oath to the LORD and the specific instruction he was charged with.

In this verse, Solomon is speaking to Shimei, who had previously sworn not to leave Jerusalem on pain of death. Shimei broke this oath by traveling to Gath, and Solomon is now holding him accountable. The verse highlights the seriousness of both making an oath before God and obeying the king’s command, showing that both religious and royal authority were at stake in this situation.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 2:43

  • kept (שָׁמַר, shamar): This word often means to guard, watch, or keep carefully. Solomon’s question uses it to emphasize that Shimei was expected to be vigilant and faithful in upholding his promise.
  • oath (שְׁבוּעָה, shevuah): This term refers to a solemn promise or vow, especially one made before God. The use of this word underlines that Shimei’s commitment was not just personal but sacred.
  • LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): The oath was made in the name of the LORD, stressing its spiritual weight and the expectation that it would not be broken.
  • commandment (מִצְוָה, mitsvah): This word means a command or directive, often with a sense of authority. Solomon’s instruction to Shimei carried the force of royal law.
  • charged (צָוָה, tsavah): This verb means to command or give an order, highlighting that Solomon’s directive was clear and binding.

Why 1 Kings 2:43 matters

  • This verse clarifies that breaking a promise made before God, especially an oath, was seen as a grave offense, not just a minor slip.
  • It shows that Solomon’s rule involved upholding both religious and royal authority, holding people accountable to both God’s standards and the king’s commands.
  • The confrontation with Shimei connects to the broader theme of Solomon consolidating his kingdom by ensuring loyalty and obedience from those who had previously opposed his father, David.