1 Kings 3:25

25 Then he gave an order. He said, "Cut the living child in two. Give half to one woman and half to the other."

1 Kings 3:25 Meaning and Commentary

1 Kings 3:25

And the king said
To one of his officers: divide the living child in two;
not that he meant it should be actually done, though it might at first be thought he really intended it, and so strike the minds of some with horror, as it did, however, the mother; but he ordered this, to try the affections of the women, and thereby come to the true knowledge of the affair; though, some think he knew it before by their countenances and manner of speech, but that he was desirous all present might see it, and be satisfied of it: and give half to the one, and half to the other;
since both claimed it.

1 Kings 3:25 In-Context

23 The king said, "One of you says, 'My son is alive. Your son is dead.' The other one says, 'No! Your son is dead. Mine is alive.' "

24 He continued, "Bring me a sword." So a sword was brought to him.

25 Then he gave an order. He said, "Cut the living child in two. Give half to one woman and half to the other."

26 The woman whose son was alive was filled with deep concern for her son. She said to the king, "My master, please give her the living baby! Don't kill him!" But the other woman said, "Neither one of us will have him. Cut him in two!"

27 Then the king made his decision. He said, "Give the living baby to the first woman. Don't kill him. She's his mother."