We do not know precisely how long David and Solomon reigned as co-regents. As the second chapter opens, this period of time was about to come to an end. We may or may not conclude that David’s advice to Solomon was literally given on his deathbed.

Many commentators point out that here David followed the ancient leaders of Israel in transferring the leadership to other hands. This is true of Moses as he handed that leadership to Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:3, Deuteronomy 31:7, Deuteronomy 31:14; Deuteronomy 34:9). It was also true of Joshua as he made way for the rule of the judges (Joshua 23:1–16), and it was true of Samuel at the end of his ministry (1 Samuel 16:1–13).

As we approach David’s words, we see that they can be divided into two major divisions. First, there are David’s spiritual exhortations that encourage Solomon to follow the way of obedience to God’s directives in the law of Moses. Then, the second division consists of practical political advice that was aimed at the establishment of stability in the kingdom.

Though we can acknowledge the division, we do not have to follow the commentators who commend the words of David in the first division and condemn his words in the second division. It is almost certain that there was no thought in David’s mind that he was ignoring his own spiritual advice (just stated) in the political advice he gave afterward. This fact is implicitly denied by those who suggest that David’s words are self-consciously hypocritical and ruthless.

It is, of course, possible to argue that David mistook his advice as righteous when it was not. Nevertheless, the burden of proof is on the shoulders of those who condemn David for his words and Solomon for putting them into practice.

Let us approach these verses with an open mind. For, if God’s Word does not condemn David for these words, it is wise if we follow its lead.