David’s Charge to Solomon: Chapter 1 anticipated David’s death. Chapter 2 will describe it. First, however, David has a few things to say to Solomon about his conduct as king (2:1–4). Then there are certain “loose ends” to be tied up (2:5–9). Only after he has seen to the good of the kingdom in this way will he be able to die in peace (2:10–11).

2:1–4 Like God’s words to Joshua upon his “succession” to the leadership of Israel after Moses’ death (Josh. 1:6–9), David’s parting words to Solomon open with an injunction to be strong (the language of warriorship, cf. 1 Sam. 4:9 for the conjunction of be strong and show yourself [be] a man), before moving on immediately to define the framework within which that strength must be exercised (obedience to God). The exercise of royal power is not to b…