MPV Commentary

Shimei Put to Death.

34. Benaiah executed the king's order by dragging Shimei from the altar and killing him elsewhere. This was in accordance with the law (Exodus 21:14) and a precedent set in similar cases (2 Kings 11:15). Although the sanctity of the altar was compromised, God's command to execute the criminal took precedence.

Shimei was buried on his own property in the wilderness of Judah. This was part of the king's order, as instructed by divine law (Deuteronomy 21:23).

36. The king summoned Shimei from Bahurim, where he likely resided. However, due to his suspicious nature and past treason against David, Solomon condemned him to live in Jerusalem under threat of death for leaving the city without permission. For three years, Shimei complied with this restriction before breaking his oath and being arrested by Solomon. He was put to death for perjury, compounded by his earlier crime of high treason.

46. With Shimei's execution, all leaders of opposing factions had been eliminated, securing Solomon's position as king.