Bathsheba is one of the most complex women in the Bible. Her story is woven with sorrow, strength, wisdom, and grace. Though remembered for her early connection to King David, Bathsheba’s life holds much more than a single moment. Below are ten interesting facts that reveal her role in God’s plan.
1. Bathsheba Was the Wife of Uriah the Hittite
Bathsheba was married to Uriah, a loyal soldier in King David’s army. The Bible first introduces her during David’s reign when he saw her bathing from his rooftop.
2 Samuel 11:3 (ESV)
“And David sent and inquired about the woman. And one said, ‘Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?’”
2. She Was the Daughter of Eliam and Granddaughter of Ahithophel
Bathsheba came from a notable family. Her father, Eliam, was one of David’s mighty warriors, and her grandfather, Ahithophel, was a trusted counselor to the king.
2 Samuel 23:34 (ESV)
“…Eliam the son of Ahithophel of Gilo…”
3. David Committed Adultery with Her
David saw Bathsheba while she was bathing and called her to the palace. He slept with her, which led to an unplanned pregnancy. This act was a serious sin before God.
2 Samuel 11:4 (ESV)
“So David sent messengers, and took her, and she came to him, and he lay with her…”
4. Bathsheba’s Husband Was Killed on David’s Orders
David tried to cover his sin by bringing Uriah home. When that failed, he sent Uriah to the front lines of battle, ensuring his death.
2 Samuel 11:15 (ESV)
“Set Uriah in the forefront of the hardest fighting, and then draw back from him, that he may be struck down, and die.”
5. She Became David’s Wife After Uriah Died
After a period of mourning, Bathsheba became David’s wife. But the Lord was displeased with David’s actions.
2 Samuel 11:27 (ESV)
“And when the mourning was over, David sent and brought her to his house, and she became his wife and bore him a son. But the thing that David had done displeased the LORD.”
6. Her First Child with David Died as Judgment
Batheba’s baby became ill and died despite David’s fasting and prayers. This was part of God’s judgment on David.
2 Samuel 12:18 (ESV)
“On the seventh day the child died. And the servants of David were afraid to tell him…”
7. She Later Gave Birth to Solomon
God later blessed Bathsheba with another son—Solomon—who would become Israel’s wisest and most powerful king.
2 Samuel 12:24 (ESV)
“Then David comforted his wife, Bathsheba, and went in to her and lay with her, and she bore a son, and he called his name Solomon. And the LORD loved him.”
8. Bathsheba Helped Solomon Become King
Bathsheba played a key political role by reminding David of his promise that Solomon would be king, preventing Adonijah’s takeover.
1 Kings 1:17 (ESV)
“My lord, you swore to your servant by the LORD your God, saying, ‘Solomon your son shall reign after me…’”
9. She Was Honored as Queen Mother
When Solomon became king, he honored Bathsheba as queen mother by rising to meet her and giving her a throne at his right hand.
1 Kings 2:19 (ESV)
“So the king rose to meet her and bowed down to her. Then he sat on his throne and had a seat brought for the king’s mother, and she sat on his right.”
10. She Is Listed in Jesus’ Genealogy
Bathsheba is included in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. Matthew does not name her but refers to her as the wife of Uriah, highlighting the grace of God.
Matthew 1:6 (ESV)
“…and David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah…”
Summary Table
| Fact | Bible Reference |
|---|---|
| Wife of Uriah | 2 Samuel 11:3 |
| Daughter of Eliam | 2 Samuel 23:34 |
| Committed adultery with David | 2 Samuel 11:4 |
| Uriah’s death ordered by David | 2 Samuel 11:15 |
| Became David’s wife | 2 Samuel 11:27 |
| First child died | 2 Samuel 12:18 |
| Mother of Solomon | 2 Samuel 12:24 |
| Helped Solomon become king | 1 Kings 1:17 |
| Honored as queen mother | 1 Kings 2:19 |
| In Jesus’ family line | Matthew 1:6 |
