1 Kings 2:16

And now I aske one petition of thee, deny me not. And she saide vnto him, Say on. 1 Kings 2:16 (KJV)

The words quoted above do not appear in any standard translation of the King James Version, nor can they be located in any other biblical manuscript. The passage that is often associated with this dialogue is found in 1 Kings 2:13‑25, a narrative that records the final confrontation between King Solomon and his older brother Adonijah after the death of their father David.

Historical Context

The events take place shortly after David’s death when Solomon assumes the throne of Israel. Adonijah, the firstborn son, had previously attempted to seize the throne (1 Kings 1) but was thwarted by David’s decree that Solomon would be king. The tension between the brothers continues into Solomon’s reign, culminating in a series of encounters that test Solomon’s authority.

The Request and Its Authenticity

In the biblical account, Adonijah approaches Solomon not through his mother Bathsheba—who is the mother of Solomon but not of Adonijah—but on his own initiative. He first seeks to marry Abishag the Shunammite (1 Kings 2:13‑14) and later pleads for mercy (1 Kings 2:13‑14). The specific dialogue “Now I ask one petition of thee, deny me not. And she said unto him, Say on.” is not recorded in Scripture; there is no documented petition from Bathsheba on Adonijah’s behalf.

Solomon’s Response

Rather than granting leniency, Solomon judges the situation decisively. He orders Adonijah’s execution (1 Kings 2:24‑25), demonstrating the king’s resolve to consolidate his rule and eliminate threats to the throne. This response underscores Solomon’s exercise of royal authority and his commitment to maintaining the stability of the kingdom.

Themes

The episode highlights several enduring biblical themes. Authority and leadership are evident in Solomon’s firm handling of a potential rival. Wisdom and judgment are displayed in his measured yet decisive action, consistent with the reputation for wisdom that characterizes Solomon’s reign (1 Kings 3). While the broader narrative does record instances of Solomon’s mercy, the specific scenario involving Bathsheba’s alleged plea does not illustrate that attribute.

In summary, the quoted verse is not scriptural, and the historical record shows that Solomon’s early reign was marked by the assertion of his authority over Adonijah’s challenge, reflecting the broader biblical principles of leadership, wisdom, and the careful balance between justice and mercy.