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Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 11 - Verse 43

11:43
And Solomon slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David his father: and Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead.

Meaning

After a long and prosperous reign, King Solomon, known for his wisdom and wealth, passed away and was buried in the city of David, his father. This verse marks the end of Solomon's reign and the beginning of his son Rehoboam's rule. Solomon was revered as one of the most powerful and influential kings in Israel's history, building the Temple in Jerusalem and expanding the kingdom to its greatest extent. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common biblical euphemism for death, indicating that Solomon joined his ancestors in the afterlife. The succession of Rehoboam as king marked a significant turning point in Israel's history, leading to political and social upheaval that eventually resulted in the division of the kingdom. This verse serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power and the inevitable passing of leadership from one generation to the next.

Theological Overview

The phrase "slept with his fathers" in the verse signifies the peaceful passing of Solomon, as it is a common euphemism in the Bible for death. This expression emphasizes the belief in the continuation of one's existence after death, in this case, with one's ancestors. The mention of Solomon being buried in the city of David his father highlights the importance of familial connections and the continuity of the royal lineage. The succession of Rehoboam as king after Solomon's death demonstrates the established tradition of hereditary monarchy in ancient Israel. This verse reminds us of the inevitability of death and the passage of leadership from one generation to the next. By examining the theological implications of this verse, we gain insight into the significance of ancestry, succession, and mortality in the biblical narrative.

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