1 Kings 2:8
1 Kings 2:8 in Multiple Translations
Keep an eye on Shimei the son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim who is with you. He called down bitter curses against me on the day I went to Mahanaim, but when he came down to meet me at the Jordan, I swore to him by the LORD: ‘I will never put you to the sword.’
And, behold, thou hast with thee Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite of Bahurim, which cursed me with a grievous curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim: but he came down to meet me at Jordan, and I sware to him by the LORD, saying, I will not put thee to death with the sword.
And, behold, there is with thee Shimei the son of Gera, the Benjamite, of Bahurim, who cursed me with a grievous curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim; but he came down to meet me at the Jordan, and I sware to him by Jehovah, saying, I will not put thee to death with the sword.
Now you have with you Shimei, the son of Gera the Benjamite of Bahurim, who put a bitter curse on me on the day when I went to Mahanaim; but he came down to see me at Jordan, and I gave him my oath by the Lord, saying, I will not put you to death by the sword.
Don't you forget Shimei, son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim who cursed me with painful words when I went to Mahanaim. When he met me at the Jordan I swore to him by the Lord, ‘I will not kill you with the sword.’
And beholde, with thee is Shimei the sonne of Gera, the sonne of Iemini, of Bahurim, which cursed mee with an horrible curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim: but hee came downe to meete me at Iorden, and I sware to him by the Lord, saying, I will not slay thee with the sword.
'And lo, with thee [is] Shimei son of Gera, the Benjamite of Bahurim, and he reviled me — a grievous reviling — in the day of my going to Mahanaim; and he hath come down to meet me at the Jordan, and I swear to him by Jehovah, saying, I do not put thee to death by the sword;
“Behold, there is with you Shimei the son of Gera, the Benjamite of Bahurim, who cursed me with a grievous curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim; but he came down to meet me at the Jordan, and I swore to him by the LORD, saying, ‘I will not put you to death with the sword.’
And behold, thou hast with thee Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjaminite of Bahurim, who cursed me with a grievous curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim: but he came down to meet me at Jordan, and I swore to him by the LORD, saying, I will not put thee to death with the sword.
Thou hast also with thee Semei the son of Gera the son of Jemini of Bahurim, who cursed me with a grievous curse, when I went to the camp: but because he came down to meet me when I passed over the Jordan, and I swore to him by the Lord, saying: I will not kill thee with a sword:
Also, you remember Gera’s son Shimei from Bahurim town in the area where the descendants of Benjamin live. You know what he did to me. He cursed me terribly on the day I left Jerusalem and went to Mahanaim town. But when he later came down to see me at the Jordan River, I solemnly promised, while Yahweh listened [MTY], that I would not cause him to be executed.
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Kings 2:8
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
1 Kings 2:8 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/הִנֵּ֣ה
עִ֠מְּ/ךָ
שִֽׁמְעִ֨י
בֶן
גֵּרָ֥א
בֶן
הַ/יְמִינִי֮
מִ/בַּחֻרִים֒
וְ/ה֤וּא
קִֽלְלַ֨/נִי֙
קְלָלָ֣ה
נִמְרֶ֔צֶת
בְּ/י֖וֹם
לֶכְתִּ֣/י
מַחֲנָ֑יִם
וְ/הֽוּא
יָרַ֤ד
לִ/קְרָאתִ/י֙
הַ/יַּרְדֵּ֔ן
וָ/אֶשָּׁ֨בַֽע
ל֤/וֹ
בַֽ/יהוָה֙
לֵ/אמֹ֔ר
אִם
אֲמִֽיתְ/ךָ֖
בֶּ/חָֽרֶב
וְ/הִנֵּ֣ה
hinnêh
H2009
behold
Conj | Part
עִ֠מְּ/ךָ
ʻim
H5973
with
Prep | Suff
שִֽׁמְעִ֨י
Shimʻîy
H8096
Shimei
N-proper
בֶן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
גֵּרָ֥א
Gêrâʼ
H1617
Gera
N-proper
בֶן
Ben-yᵉmîynîy
H1145
Benjaminite
N-ms
הַ/יְמִינִי֮
Ben-yᵉmîynîy
H1145
Benjaminite
Art | Ngmsa
מִ/בַּחֻרִים֒
Bachurîym
H980
Bahurim
Prep | N-proper
וְ/ה֤וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Conj | Pron
קִֽלְלַ֨/נִי֙
qâlal
H7043
to lighten
V-Piel-Perf-3ms | Suff
קְלָלָ֣ה
qᵉlâlâh
H7045
curse
N-fs
נִמְרֶ֔צֶת
mârats
H4834
be sick
V-Niphal
בְּ/י֖וֹם
yôwm
H3117
day
Prep | N-ms
לֶכְתִּ֣/י
yâlak
H3212
to walk
V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
מַחֲנָ֑יִם
Machănayim
H4266
Mahanaim
N-proper
וְ/הֽוּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Conj | Pron
יָרַ֤ד
yârad
H3381
to go down
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
לִ/קְרָאתִ/י֙
qirʼâh
H7125
befall
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
הַ/יַּרְדֵּ֔ן
Yardên
H3383
Jordan
Art | N-proper
וָ/אֶשָּׁ֨בַֽע
shâbaʻ
H7650
to swear
Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-1cs
ל֤/וֹ
Prep | Suff
בַֽ/יהוָה֙
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
Prep | N-proper
לֵ/אמֹ֔ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
אֲמִֽיתְ/ךָ֖
mûwth
H4191
to die
V-Hiphil-Imperf-1cs | Suff
בֶּ/חָֽרֶב
chereb
H2719
sword
Prep | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 2:8
וְ/הִנֵּ֣ה
hinnêh
H2009
"behold"
Conj | Part
This Hebrew word is an expression that means 'behold' or 'look', often used to draw attention to something. It appears in Genesis and Isaiah, and is translated as 'behold' or 'lo' in the KJV.
Definition: behold, lo, see, if
Usage: Occurs in 799 OT verses. KJV: behold, lo, see. See also: Genesis 1:29; Genesis 42:35; Deuteronomy 19:18.
עִ֠מְּ/ךָ
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
שִֽׁמְעִ֨י
Shimʻîy
H8096
"Shimei"
N-proper
Shimei was a common name among Israelites, with at least 20 people having this name. One notable Shimei was the brother of David and son of Jesse, who lived during the United Monarchy.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Sa.16.9; son of: Jesse (H3448); brother of: David (H1732), Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?) and Elihu (H0453J); father of: Jonadab (H3122); also called Shimei (KJV: Shimea) at 2Sa.21.21; Shammah at 1Sa.16.9; 17.13; Shimea at 1Ch.2.13; 20.7; Another name of shim.ah (שִׁמְעָה "Shimeah" H8093) § Shimei or Shimhi or Shimi or Shimea = "renowned" 1) a Benjamite, son of Gera of the house of Saul in the time of David 2) a Benjamite, son of Elah and commissariat officer in the time of Solomon 3) the Ramathite in charge of the vineyards of David 4) son of Gershon and grandson of Levi 5) a Levite, son of Jeduthun and chief of the 10th division of singers in the time of David 6) a Levite of the sons of Heman who took part in the purification of the temple in the time of king Hezekiah of Judah 7) a Levite, brother of Cononiah in charge of receiving the tithes and offerings in the reign of king Hezekiah of Judah 8) a Levite who had a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 9) a Judaite, son of Pedaiah and brother of Zerubbabel 10) a Simeonite, son of Zacchur 11) a Reubenite, son of Gog and father of Micah 12) one of the sons of Hashum who had a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 13) one of the sons of Bani who had a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 14) a Benjamite, son of Kish, father of Jair, and grandfather of Mordecai in the time of Esther 15) a Levite, son of Jahath, grandson of Gershon, and great grandson of Levi 16) Benjamite, father of Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath. Spelled 'Shimhi'
Usage: Occurs in 40 OT verses. KJV: Shimeah (from the margin), Shimei, Shimhi, Shimi. See also: Exodus 6:17; 1 Chronicles 3:19; Esther 2:5.
בֶן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
גֵּרָ֥א
Gêrâʼ
H1617
"Gera"
N-proper
Gera is a name in the Bible, given to six different Israelites, including a son of Ehud and a grandson of Benjamin, as mentioned in 1 Chronicles 8:7.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living before Israel's Monarchy, only mentioned at 1Ch.8.7; son of: Ehud (H0164); brother of: Naaman (H5283J), Ahijah (H0281K), Uzza (H5798H) and Ahihud (H0284); also called Heglam (KJV: "removed"; NIV: "deported") at 1Ch.8.7; Also named: ga.lah (הֶגְלָם "Heglam" H1540) § Gera = "a grain" 1) a son of Benjamin 2) a son of Bela and grandson of Benjamin 3) any member of the Gera family of the Benjamite tribe
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: Gera. See also: Genesis 46:21; 2 Samuel 19:19; 1 Chronicles 8:7.
בֶן
Ben-yᵉmîynîy
H1145
"Benjaminite"
N-ms
A Benjaminite is a descendant of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob. This term refers to someone from the tribe of Benjamin, such as Bela and Becher, who were sons of Benjamin.
Definition: Someone from the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.35.18; son of: Israel (H3478) and Rachel (H7354); brother of: Joseph (H3130); half-brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); father of: Bela (H1106A), Becher (H1071), Ashbel (H0788), Gera (H1617), Naaman (H5283), Ehi (H0278), Rosh (H7220), Muppim (H4649), Huppim (H2650H), Ard (H0714), Ahiram (H0297) and Jediael (H3043); also called Jamin at 1Sa.9.1,4; 22.7; 1x Group of bin.ya.min (בִּנְיָמִין "Benjamin" H1144) § Benjamite = "a son of the right hand" one of the tribe of Benjamin
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: Benjamite, of Benjamin. See also: Judges 3:15; 2 Samuel 19:17; Psalms 7:1.
הַ/יְמִינִי֮
Ben-yᵉmîynîy
H1145
"Benjaminite"
Art | Ngmsa
A Benjaminite is a descendant of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob. This term refers to someone from the tribe of Benjamin, such as Bela and Becher, who were sons of Benjamin.
Definition: Someone from the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.35.18; son of: Israel (H3478) and Rachel (H7354); brother of: Joseph (H3130); half-brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); father of: Bela (H1106A), Becher (H1071), Ashbel (H0788), Gera (H1617), Naaman (H5283), Ehi (H0278), Rosh (H7220), Muppim (H4649), Huppim (H2650H), Ard (H0714), Ahiram (H0297) and Jediael (H3043); also called Jamin at 1Sa.9.1,4; 22.7; 1x Group of bin.ya.min (בִּנְיָמִין "Benjamin" H1144) § Benjamite = "a son of the right hand" one of the tribe of Benjamin
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: Benjamite, of Benjamin. See also: Judges 3:15; 2 Samuel 19:17; Psalms 7:1.
מִ/בַּחֻרִים֒
Bachurîym
H980
"Bahurim"
Prep | N-proper
Bahurim is a place in the Bible, a town in the region of Benjamin, located between Jerusalem and Jericho, near the Mount of Olives.
Definition: § Bahurim = "young men's village" a town in Benjamin between Jerusalem and Jericho beyond the Mount of Olives on the way to Jericho
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: Bahurim. See also: 2 Samuel 3:16; 2 Samuel 17:18; 1 Kings 2:8.
וְ/ה֤וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Conj | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
קִֽלְלַ֨/נִי֙
qâlal
H7043
"to lighten"
V-Piel-Perf-3ms | Suff
The Hebrew word qalal means to make something light or easy, but it can also mean to curse or bring into contempt. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament, including in the books of Exodus and Psalms.
Definition: 1) to be slight, be swift, be trifling, be of little account, be light 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be slight, be abated (of water) 1a2) to be swift 1a3) to be trifling, be of little account 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be swift, show oneself swift 1b2) to appear trifling, be too trifling, be insignificant 1b3) to be lightly esteemed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to make despicable 1c2) to curse 1d) (Pual) to be cursed 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to make light, lighten 1e2) to treat with contempt, bring contempt or dishonour 1f) (Pilpel) 1f1) to shake 1f2) to whet 1g) (Hithpalpel) to shake oneself, be moved to and fro
Usage: Occurs in 79 OT verses. KJV: abate, make bright, bring into contempt, (ac-) curse, despise, (be) ease(-y, -ier), (be a, make, make somewhat, move, seem a, set) light(-en, -er, -ly, -ly afflict, -ly esteem, thing), [idiom] slight(-ly), be swift(-er), (be, be more, make, re-) vile, whet. See also: Genesis 8:8; 2 Kings 3:18; Psalms 37:22.
קְלָלָ֣ה
qᵉlâlâh
H7045
"curse"
N-fs
This Hebrew word means a curse, which is a wish for harm or evil to come to someone. It is used in many places, including the book of Numbers and Deuteronomy. Curses were taken seriously in biblical times.
Definition: curse, vilification, execration
Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: (ac-) curse(-d, -ing). See also: Genesis 27:12; 1 Kings 2:8; Psalms 109:17.
נִמְרֶ֔צֶת
mârats
H4834
"be sick"
V-Niphal
Means to be sick or to make someone sick. It can also mean to be painful or irritating. This word is used in the Bible to describe physical and emotional suffering.
Definition: 1) to be or make sick 1a) (Niphal) to be grievous or painful 1b) (Hiphil) to make sick
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: embolden, be forcible, grievous, sore. See also: 1 Kings 2:8; Job 16:3; Micah 2:10.
בְּ/י֖וֹם
yôwm
H3117
"day"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
לֶכְתִּ֣/י
yâlak
H3212
"to walk"
V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
To walk or go, this verb means to move from one place to another, used literally or figuratively, as in to live or die, or to lead someone.
Definition: 1) to go, walk, come 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away 1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.) 1b) (Hiphil) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] again, away, bear, bring, carry (away), come (away), depart, flow, [phrase] follow(-ing), get (away, hence, him), (cause to, made) go (away, -ing, -ne, one's way, out), grow, lead (forth), let down, march, prosper, [phrase] pursue, cause to run, spread, take away (-journey), vanish, (cause to) walk(-ing), wax, [idiom] be weak. See also: Genesis 3:14; Exodus 5:8; Deuteronomy 28:14.
מַחֲנָ֑יִם
Machănayim
H4266
"Mahanaim"
N-proper
Mahanaim was a place in Palestine where Jacob met angels, and its name means 'two camps'. It's east of the Jordan River and is an important location in biblical history.
Definition: § Mahanaim = "two camps" a place east of the Jordan, named from Jacob's encounter with angels
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: Mahanaim. See also: Genesis 32:3; 2 Samuel 2:29; 1 Chronicles 6:65.
וְ/הֽוּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Conj | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
יָרַ֤ד
yârad
H3381
"to go down"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To go down or descend, like going to a lower place or falling. It appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing people and things moving downwards.
Definition: 1) to go down, descend, decline, march down, sink down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come down 1a2) to sink 1a3) to be prostrated 1a4) to come down (of revelation) 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to bring down 1b2) to send down 1b3) to take down 1b4) to lay prostrate 1b5) to let down 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be brought down 1c2) to be taken down
Usage: Occurs in 345 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abundantly, bring down, carry down, cast down, (cause to) come(-ing) down, fall (down), get down, go(-ing) down(-ward), hang down, [idiom] indeed, let down, light (down), put down (off), (cause to, let) run down, sink, subdue, take down. See also: Genesis 11:5; Judges 3:28; 2 Kings 1:15.
לִ/קְרָאתִ/י֙
qirʼâh
H7125
"befall"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
To encounter or meet someone or something, either by accident or on purpose, as seen in the story of Joseph meeting his brothers in Genesis 37:23. This word can also mean to befall or happen to someone. It is used in various contexts, including friendly or hostile encounters.
Definition: 1) (BDB) to encounter, befall, meet 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to meet, encounter 1a2) to befall (fig)
Usage: Occurs in 98 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] against (he come), help, meet, seek, [idiom] to, [idiom] in the way. See also: Genesis 14:17; 2 Samuel 10:9; Psalms 35:3.
הַ/יַּרְדֵּ֔ן
Yardên
H3383
"Jordan"
Art | N-proper
The Jordan River, which runs from Lebanon to the Dead Sea, is a key location in the Bible, including in the stories of Jesus and the Israelites.
Definition: Jordan = "descender" the river of Palestine running from the roots of Anti-Lebanon to the Dead Sea a distance of approx 200 miles (320 km) Also named: Iordanēs (Ἰορδάνης "Jordan" G2446)
Usage: Occurs in 164 OT verses. KJV: Jordan. See also: Genesis 13:10; Joshua 12:1; Psalms 42:7.
וָ/אֶשָּׁ֨בַֽע
shâbaʻ
H7650
"to swear"
Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-1cs
This Hebrew word means to swear an oath, like making a promise or vow. In the Bible, it is used when someone is making a serious promise, often with God as a witness. The KJV translates it as adjure or take an oath.
Definition: 1) to swear, adjure 1a) (Qal) sworn (participle) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to swear, take an oath 1b2) to swear (of Jehovah by Himself) 1b3) to curse 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to take an oath 1c2) to adjure
Usage: Occurs in 175 OT verses. KJV: adjure, charge (by an oath, with an oath), feed to the full (by mistake for H7646 (שָׂבַע)), take an oath, [idiom] straitly, (cause to, make to) swear. See also: Genesis 21:23; Judges 21:18; Psalms 15:4.
ל֤/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
בַֽ/יהוָה֙
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
Prep | N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
לֵ/אמֹ֔ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
אֲמִֽיתְ/ךָ֖
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-1cs | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
בֶּ/חָֽרֶב
chereb
H2719
"sword"
Prep | N-fs
A sword or cutting instrument is what this Hebrew word refers to, including knives and tools for cutting stone. It is used in the Bible to describe weapons and sharp objects.
Definition: 1) sword, knife 1a) sword 1b) knife 1c) tools for cutting stone
Usage: Occurs in 372 OT verses. KJV: axe, dagger, knife, mattock, sword, tool. See also: Genesis 3:24; 2 Samuel 2:16; Psalms 7:13.
Study Notes — 1 Kings 2:8
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 1 Kings 2:8 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 2:8
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 2:8
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
- Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 2:8
- Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
- Sermons on 1 Kings 2:8
Context — David Instructs Solomon
6So act according to your wisdom, and do not let his gray head go down to Sheol in peace.
7But show loving devotion to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be among those who eat at your table, because they stood by me when I fled from your brother Absalom.
8Keep an eye on Shimei the son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim who is with you. He called down bitter curses against me on the day I went to Mahanaim, but when he came down to meet me at the Jordan, I swore to him by the LORD: ‘I will never put you to the sword.’
9Now therefore, do not hold him guiltless, for you are a wise man. You know what you ought to do to him to bring his gray head down to Sheol in blood.” 10Then David rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Samuel 16:5–8 | As King David approached Bahurim, a man from the family of the house of Saul was just coming out. His name was Shimei son of Gera, and as he approached, he kept yelling out curses. He threw stones at David and at all the servants of the king, though the troops and all the mighty men were on David’s right and left. And as he yelled curses, Shimei said, “Get out, get out, you worthless man of bloodshed! The LORD has paid you back for all the blood of the house of Saul, in whose place you have reigned, and the LORD has delivered the kingdom into the hand of your son Absalom. See, you have come to ruin because you are a man of bloodshed!” |
| 2 | 1 Kings 2:36–46 | Then the king summoned Shimei and said to him, “Build a house for yourself in Jerusalem and live there, but do not go anywhere else. On the day you go out and cross the Kidron Valley, know for sure that you will die; your blood will be on your own head.” “The sentence is fair,” Shimei replied. “Your servant will do as my lord the king has spoken.” And Shimei lived in Jerusalem for a long time. After three years, however, two of Shimei’s slaves ran away to Achish son of Maacah, king of Gath. And Shimei was told, “Look, your slaves are in Gath.” So Shimei saddled his donkey and set out to Achish at Gath in search of his slaves, and he brought them back from Gath. When Solomon was told that Shimei had gone from Jerusalem to Gath and had returned, the king summoned Shimei and said to him, “Did I not make you swear by the LORD and warn you, ‘On the day you leave and go elsewhere, know for sure that you will die’? And you told me, ‘The sentence is fair; I will comply.’ So why have you not kept your oath to the LORD and the command that I gave you?” The king also said, “You know in your heart all the evil that you did to my father David. Therefore the LORD will bring your evil back upon your head. But King Solomon will be blessed and David’s throne will remain secure before the LORD forever.” Then the king commanded Benaiah son of Jehoiada, and he went out and struck Shimei down, and he died. Thus the kingdom was firmly established in the hand of Solomon. |
| 3 | 2 Samuel 19:16–23 | Then Shimei son of Gera, a Benjamite from Bahurim, hurried down with the men of Judah to meet King David, along with a thousand men of Benjamin, as well as Ziba the steward of the house of Saul and his fifteen sons and twenty servants. They rushed down to the Jordan before the king and crossed at the ford to carry over the king’s household and to do what was good in his sight. When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, he fell down before the king and said, “My lord, do not hold me guilty, and do not remember your servant’s wrongdoing on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. May the king not take it to heart. For your servant knows that I have sinned, so here I am today as the first of all the house of Joseph to come down to meet my lord the king.” But Abishai son of Zeruiah said, “Shouldn’t Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed the LORD’s anointed?” And David replied, “Sons of Zeruiah, what have I to do with you, that you should be my adversaries today? Should any man be put to death in Israel today? Am I not indeed aware that today I am king over Israel?” So the king said to Shimei, “You shall not die.” And the king swore an oath to him. |
| 4 | Jeremiah 4:2 | and if you can swear, ‘As surely as the LORD lives,’ in truth, in justice, and in righteousness, then the nations will be blessed by Him, and in Him they will glory.” |
1 Kings 2:8 Summary
This verse, 1 Kings 2:8, is about King David telling his son Solomon to watch out for a man named Shimei, who had cursed him in the past. Even though King David had promised not to harm Shimei, he wants Solomon to be careful around him. This shows that King David is concerned about justice and wants to protect his kingdom, but also values keeping his promises, as seen in Numbers 23:19. It's a reminder that we should respect those in authority and keep our promises, just like God does (as seen in Psalm 119:90), and strive to balance justice with mercy and forgiveness, as taught in Matthew 6:14-15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did King David not punish Shimei immediately for cursing him?
King David chose not to punish Shimei at the time because he had sworn to him by the Lord that he would not put him to the sword, as seen in 1 Kings 2:8, demonstrating his commitment to keeping his promises, even to those who had wronged him, much like God's own character as described in Numbers 23:19.
What is the significance of Shimei's actions against King David?
Shimei's actions against King David, as mentioned in 1 Kings 2:8, show a lack of respect and gratitude towards the king, who had shown him kindness, highlighting the importance of respecting those in authority, as taught in Romans 13:1-2 and 1 Peter 2:13-14.
How does King David's instruction to Solomon regarding Shimei relate to his own character?
King David's instruction to Solomon to keep an eye on Shimei, as seen in 1 Kings 2:8, demonstrates his concern for justice and his desire to protect his kingdom, while also showing his trust in Solomon's wisdom to handle the situation, much like God's trust in humans to be good stewards, as described in Genesis 1:28.
What does this verse reveal about the importance of forgiveness and mercy?
This verse, 1 Kings 2:8, reveals that King David was willing to show mercy and forgiveness to Shimei, despite his wrongdoing, illustrating the value of forgiveness and mercy, as also taught in Matthew 6:14-15 and Ephesians 4:32.
Reflection Questions
- How can I, like King David, show mercy and forgiveness to those who have wronged me, and what does this reveal about my character?
- In what ways can I demonstrate respect and gratitude towards those in authority, as taught in Scripture?
- How can I balance the need for justice with the importance of showing mercy and forgiveness, as seen in King David's actions?
- What does this verse teach me about the importance of keeping my promises, and how can I apply this to my own life?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 2:8
And behold [thou hast] with thee Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite of Bahurim,.... Of whom, and of his native place, [See comments on 2 Samuel 16:5]; he was now at Jerusalem, and so with Solomon,
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 2:8
And, behold, thou hast with thee Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite of Bahurim, which cursed me with a grievous curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim: but he came down to meet me at Jordan, and I
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
With thee, i.e. in thy power, as that phrase is oft used. Cursed me with a grievous curse; or, reproached me with bitter reproaches, ,8; which David could not but deeply resent from him, though, as it was an affliction sent from God, he patiently submitted to it. I will not put thee to death with the sword. Quest. How then could David lawfully engage Solomon to punish him for it? And did David upon his death-bed bear malice against Shimei? Answ. First, David was not a private person, which might remit such offences without any inconvenience; but a public magistrate, who for the honour and maintenance of government was obliged to punish such insolent and opprobrious speeches, if the necessity of his affairs had not then engaged him to pass it by. Otherwise it appears from divers passages of the Psalms, and of this history, how free David was from a rancorous and revengeful spirit, even towards his enemies. Secondly, The following advice is not contrary to David’ s oath, both because that was only personal, that David would not kill him either at that time, as Abishai desired him, or whilst he lived, and did not oblige his successors; and especially, because it was not David’ s mind that Shimei should be put to death for that fault, (as is evident; for then there was no need of Solomon’ s wisdom to find out an occasion, but only of his justice to punish him for the old crime,) but for some other competent crime, which Solomon’ s wisdom, narrowly prying into all his actions, would easily find out.
And if the condition which Solomon imposed upon Shimei, ,37, seem hard, it must be remembered that David only swore that he would pardon him as to life, but not that he would exempt him from all punishment or confinement.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
1 Kings 2:8 And, behold, [thou hast] with thee Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite of Bahurim, which cursed me with a grievous curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim: but he came down to meet me at Jordan, and I sware to him by the LORD, saying, I will not put thee to death with the sword.Ver. 8. Thou hast with thee Shimei the son of Gerah.] Some think that, moved by David’ s favour in forgiving him, he would not take part with Adonijah. But if it were the same Shimei, and not rather another and better of his name, yet now he must answer for his old faults. So that deferring payment is no breach of bond: there will come a time wherein the Lord will have a full blow at the impenitent person, be the pretences of impunity what they will. Which cursed me with a grievous curse.] Heb., Strong; Gr., Dolorous; Chald., Bitter. Indeed his mouth was "full of cursing and bitterness," as if he had been as far as hell to fetch every word. And I sware to him.] See on 2 Samuel 19:23.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
(8) Thou hast with thee Shimei.—The most ungenerous charge is the virtual withdrawal of the pardon, freely granted to Shimei long before (2 Samuel 19:18-23). It is, perhaps, partly dictated by policy; for the notice of Shimei (2 Samuel 16:5-8; 2 Samuel 19:17) shows that he was powerful, and that he assumed a dangerous championship of the fallen house of Saul. But there are unmistakable traces of the old grudge rankling in David’s heart, reminding us of the bitterness of such psalms as Psalms 69.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
Verse 8. Thou hast with thee Shimei] See on 2 Samuel 16:5, c., and the notes on 2 Samuel 19:18-23.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 2:8
8. thou hast with thee Shimei] Shimei was not at present living in Jerusalem (see 1 Kings 2:36), but that his conduct might be more closely watched Solomon compelled him to come and dwell in the city. Bahurim] Besides its connexion with the story of Shimei, this place is mentioned (2 Samuel 17:18) as the spot where Jonathan and Ahimaaz were concealed in the well, or cistern, to avoid the pursuit of Absalom’s servants; and in the account of Phaltiel’s separation from Michal when she was sent back to David (2 Samuel 3:16) by Ishbosheth. It must have been situate near the road from Jerusalem to the fords of the Jordan, but it is not mentioned in Joshua, nor has its situation been identified. Mahanaim] was on the east of Jordan, and was so named by Jacob (Genesis 32:2) because he there saw the host (Mahaneh) of God. Abner made his head-quarters there while he was supporting Ishbosheth against David (2 Samuel 2:8). Its strong position and fortification, which are specially dwelt on by Josephus (Ant. vii. 9, 8) no doubt led Abner to choose it, as did David likewise in his flight before Absalom. came down to meet me] Shimei makes a merit of being among the first to give the king welcome on his return (2 Samuel 19:20). And though Abishai urged that he should straightway be put to death, David refused to have the day of his restoration stained by the blood of any man.
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 2:8
8. Shimei the son of Gera — The same remarks which show the nature of David’s charge concerning Joab, 1 Kings 2:5, apply here also.
Sermons on 1 Kings 2:8
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
America's Greatest Need by B.R. Lakin | Dr. B. R. Lakin delivers a powerful sermon titled 'America’s Greatest Need,' emphasizing the importance of patriotism, gratitude, responsibility, and faith in God for the nation's |