Howbeit I will not rend away all the kingdom; but will give one tribe to thy son for David my servant’s sake, and for Jerusalem’s sake which I have chosen.
However, I will not tear away the entire kingdom from you. I will give one tribe to your son for the sake of my servant David, and for the sake of Jerusalem, the city I have chosen.
God is showing mercy by promising that Solomon's family will still rule over one tribe, honoring His previous promises to David and His love for Jerusalem.
📚 Historical Context
In the biblical narrative, King Solomon, who succeeded his father David, turned away from God by marrying foreign wives and worshiping their idols, leading to God's judgment on his kingdom. As a result, God decided to divide the kingdom of Israel after Solomon's death, but He showed mercy by promising to leave one tribe to Solomon's son. This decision honored God's covenant with David and His special choice of Jerusalem as a holy city.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.