מלכים א, פרק א׳, פסוק כ״ג

Approaching a ruling monarch requires strict adherence to royal protocol and clear displays of respect. When Nathan the Prophet arrives to speak with King David, his entry highlights the established order of the kingdom. Nathan does not simply walk right into the royal chambers. Instead, he waits outside in the courtyard. It is only after his arrival is announced, and the king formally grants him permission to enter, that the prophet moves from the courtyard into the house to stand before the monarch [מצודת דוד].

Once inside, Nathan immediately bows down, pressing his face completely to the ground. This deep physical display of submission might seem surprising coming from a holy prophet. However, because the king is the head of the political government, the requirement to honor and fear him applies to every single person in the kingdom, without any exceptions [ביאור שטיינזלץ].