Bathsheba Wife of David, Mother of Solomon

Q: Was Bathsheba guilty of adultery?

Scripture focuses David's guilt without explicitly addressing Bathsheba's culpability. As a subject of the king, her ability to refuse is unclear. The narrative emphasizes David's abuse of power. She is remembered in Jesus' genealogy not with shame but as part of God's redemptive plan.

Old Testament

About Bathsheba

Bathsheba was the wife of Uriah the Hittite before David saw her bathing and committed adultery with her. David then arranged Uriah's death in battle. After their first child died, she bore Solomon, who became king. She later advocated for Solomon's succession to the throne and became the queen mother.

Bathsheba's Character Traits

BeautifulMother of SolomonQueen Mother

Bathsheba's Life Timeline

View journey on map

Adulteryc. 990 BC

David sees Bathsheba bathing and commits adultery with her.

2SA 11:2-4

Death of Uriahc. 990 BC

David arranges for Bathsheba's husband Uriah to be killed in battle.

2SA 11:14-17

Marriagec. 990 BC

Bathsheba becomes David's wife; their first child dies.

2SA 11:27, 12:18

Solomon's Birthc. 990 BC

Bathsheba gives birth to Solomon, whom God loves.

2SA 12:24-25

Solomon Made Kingc. 970 BC

Bathsheba advocates for Solomon when Adonijah tries to seize the throne.

1KI 1:11-31

Bathsheba's Key Relationships

DavidFamily

Husband - Their relationship began in sin but produced Solomon.

SolomonFamily

Son - Solomon honored Bathsheba as queen mother.

Bathsheba's Key Locations

Jerusalem

Where Bathsheba lived as David's wife and Solomon's queen mother.

Spiritual Lessons from Bathsheba

Grace Amid Tragedy

Bathsheba's story begins with sin and death, yet she becomes ancestor of Jesus (Matthew 1:6). God's redemptive power can bring blessing from brokenness. Grace doesn't erase consequences but transforms outcomes.