1 Kings 2:20

Then she said, I desire one small petition of thee; I pray thee, say me not nay. And the king said unto her, Ask on, my mother: for I will not say thee nay.

1 Kings 2:20 (KJV)

Context

This conversation takes place soon after Solomon becomes king of Israel, following the death of his father, David. Before David died, he promised Bathsheba that Solomon would rule after him (1 Kings 1:17). Yet Adonijah, Solomon’s older brother, had also tried to make himself king and gathered supporters. That challenge had already been settled, but its effects remained.

In 1 Kings 2:13-18, Adonijah asks Bathsheba to request that Solomon allow him to marry Abishag, who had cared for King David in his old age. Such a marriage could be seen as a way to strengthen Adonijah’s claim to the throne. Bathsheba brings this matter to Solomon, and in verse 19 she bows before him. Then in verse 20 she makes her opening plea.

Meaning

Bathsheba calls her request “one small petition.” She does not demand anything as the king’s mother. Instead, she humbly asks that Solomon not refuse her. The phrase “say me not nay” is a plea not to be denied or turned away in shame. She presents herself as a supplicant, not as someone who assumes her request will be granted.

Solomon answers with honor and warmth. He addresses her as “my mother” and promises, “I will not say thee nay.” He invites her to ask freely, before he even knows what she wants. His response shows respect for his mother and a readiness to hear her. The verse does not reveal the content of her petition; that comes in the following verses (1 Kings 2:21-25).

Biblical connections

This passage reflects the command to honor one’s parents, a principle repeated throughout Scripture. Solomon, though king, does not treat his mother with distance or pride. He listens and grants her favor. The interaction also shows how a ruler should receive those who come with requests, with patience and dignity rather than dismissal. This mirrors the way God welcomes the prayers of His people, though that is an analogy and not a direct teaching of this verse.

Application

Bathsheba’s approach teaches us how to make requests of those in authority. She speaks with respect, acknowledges the king’s position, and asks for favor rather than making demands. Her example is useful in family life, in work, and in any setting where we need help from someone with power to grant it.

Solomon’s reply also models a gracious response. He does not interrupt or reject his mother’s plea. He assures her that she can speak freely. This encourages us to receive the requests of others with kindness, especially from parents and elders, and to give them a fair hearing before deciding. Such respect in communication strengthens relationships and honors God.

Reflection

This brief exchange reminds us that honor and humility belong together. Bathsheba does not use her position to pressure her son. Solomon does not use his authority to dismiss his mother. Their mutual respect stands as a quiet example of how family love and godly character can shape even royal decisions. It also calls us to examine how we speak to those we love and how we respond when they come to us with a need.