In 1 Kings 11:36, the King James Version Bible states, "And unto his son will I give one tribe, that David my servant may have a light always before me in Jerusalem, the city which I have chosen me to put my name there."

This verse comes in the context of Solomon's disobedience to God, particularly in his later years when he allowed foreign wives to turn his heart away from God. As a result of this, God declares through the prophet Ahijah that He will tear the kingdom away from Solomon but for the sake of David, He will not do it in Solomon's lifetime. Instead, He will give one tribe to Solomon's son so that David, His servant, may always have a light before Him in Jerusalem, the city which He has chosen to put His name there.

This verse expresses several important themes that are recurrent throughout the Bible, such as faithfulness, consequences of disobedience, and God's faithfulness to His promises.

The first theme in this verse is faithfulness. Despite Solomon's disobedience, God remains faithful to His promises and the covenant He made with David. The reference to David having a "light always before me in Jerusalem" reflects God's faithfulness to the Davidic covenant, in which God promised that David's line would always have a descendant on the throne. This emphasizes God's unwavering faithfulness despite the unfaithfulness of man.

The consequences of disobedience is another important theme in this verse. Solomon's disobedience led to the splitting of the kingdom after his death. The tearing of the kingdom away from Solomon and the division of the tribes are a direct result of his disobedience. This theme is a recurring motif throughout the Bible, illustrating the importance of obedience and the consequences that follow disobedience.

God's faithfulness to His promises is also evident in this verse. Despite Solomon's failings, God's promise to David remains intact. This reaffirms the steadfastness of God's covenant and the reliability of His word. It also exemplifies God's grace and mercy, as He continues to honor His promise to David despite the failings of his descendants.

The context of this verse is also significant in understanding its meaning. Solomon's reign was marked by great wisdom and prosperity, yet he ultimately turned away from God in his later years due to his marriages to foreign women who led him astray. As a result, the once united kingdom of Israel was split after Solomon's death. This context provides a backdrop for understanding the gravity of Solomon's disobedience and the resulting consequences. It serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of forsaking God's commandments and the far-reaching implications of such actions.

Furthermore, the symbolism in this verse is rich and multi-layered. "David my servant may have a light always before me in Jerusalem" can be seen as a symbol of the enduring presence of God in the lineage of David, and His continued favor towards David's descendants. The idea of a "light" before God implies a sense of guidance, protection, and favor. This symbolism serves to underscore God's faithfulness and His enduring plan for the house of David despite the failings of individual rulers.

In conclusion, 1 Kings 11:36 encapsulates important themes of faithfulness, consequences of disobedience, and God's faithfulness to His promises. It also highlights the rich symbolism of God's enduring presence and favor towards the house of David. The verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the unchanging nature of His faithfulness. It also provides a glimpse into the overarching plan of God throughout history.