In this verse the record shows that Bathsheba added something in the conversation with her husband that Nathan did not tell her to say. She informed David, or at least reminded him, that all of the people of Israel waited for some sign from him concerning the one who would rule after him. The implication was that—if David remained silent, seeming to accept Adonijah’s accession—Adonijah would be acknowledged as king after David’s passing.
Bathsheba’s mention of all Israel
may support the belief of some commentators that the support that Adonijah had, came almost exclusively from the tribe of Judah and those who had supported David when he was king of Judah in Hebron. If this was the case, it would appear that Bathsheba was suggesting that the rest of the tribes of Israel were looking at David to give them a reason for resisting the attempt of Adonijah to gain control of the kingdom.
20 And now, my lord the king, the eyes of all Israel are on you, to tell them who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him.