Notwithstanding in thy days I will not do it for David thy father’s sake: but I will rend it out of the hand of thy son.
However, I won't do this during your lifetime because of your father David. Instead, I will tear the kingdom away from your son.
God is telling Solomon that He will delay the punishment of dividing Israel until after Solomon dies, out of respect for David, but Solomon's son will lose most of the kingdom.
📚 Historical Context
This verse comes after God's judgment on Solomon for turning away from Him and worshiping foreign gods through the influence of his many wives. God had promised David that his dynasty would endure, so He chose to honor that covenant by not immediately punishing Solomon. The division would come under Solomon's son Rehoboam, when the northern ten tribes would break away to form the separate kingdom of Israel.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.