1 Kings 11:36

36 but I will let Solomon's son keep one tribe, so that I will always have a descendant of my servant David ruling in Jerusalem, the city I have chosen as the place where I am worshiped.

1 Kings 11:36 Meaning and Commentary

1 Kings 11:36

And unto his son will I give one tribe
Judah and Benjamin reckoned as one; (See Gill on 1 Kings 11:13), that David my servant may have a light always before me in Jerusalem, the city which I have chosen me to put my name there; or a kingdom, as the Targum; or an illustrious prince, a successor, shining in royal majesty and glory, to guide and direct, cheer and comfort, the people of Israel; be an honour to David's family, and a means of continuing the pure worship of God in the temple at Jerusalem; see ( 2 Samuel 21:17 ) ( Psalms 132:17 ) .

1 Kings 11:36 In-Context

34 But I will not take the whole kingdom away from Solomon, and I will keep him in power as long as he lives. This I will do for the sake of my servant David, whom I chose and who obeyed my laws and commands.

35 I will take the kingdom away from Solomon's son and will give you ten tribes,

36 but I will let Solomon's son keep one tribe, so that I will always have a descendant of my servant David ruling in Jerusalem, the city I have chosen as the place where I am worshiped.

37 Jeroboam, I will make you king of Israel, and you will rule over all the territory that you want.

38 If you obey me completely, live by my laws, and win my approval by doing what I command, as my servant David did, I will always be with you. I will make you king of Israel and will make sure that your descendants rule after you, just as I have done for David.