1 Kings 1:25

For today he has gone down and sacrificed an abundance of oxen, fattened calves, and sheep, and has invited all the sons of the king, the commanders of the army, and Abiathar the priest. And behold, they are eating and drinking before him, saying, 'Long live King Adonijah!'

Study Bible

For he has gone down today
The phrase "gone down" indicates a deliberate action taken by Adonijah, the son of King David, to assert his claim to the throne. In the Hebrew context, "gone down" (יָרַד, yarad) often implies a descent to a specific location with purpose. This action signifies Adonijah's attempt to establish his kingship by performing a public and ceremonial act, which was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures to legitimize authority.

sacrificed an abundance of oxen, fattened cattle, and sheep
Sacrifices were central to Israelite worship and political life. The Hebrew word for "sacrificed" (זָבַח, zabach) denotes a ritual offering to God, often to seek favor or divine approval. The "abundance" of sacrifices underscores Adonijah's wealth and his attempt to gain popular support by displaying generosity. In the ancient world, such lavish offerings were also a means to curry favor with influential figures and the populace.

He has invited all the king’s sons, the commanders of the army, and Abiathar the priest
The invitation of "all the king’s sons" and key military and religious leaders highlights Adonijah's strategic move to consolidate power. By including "the commanders of the army," Adonijah sought military backing, crucial for any claim to the throne. "Abiathar the priest" was a significant religious figure, and his support would lend spiritual legitimacy to Adonijah's claim. This gathering reflects the political maneuvering typical of royal successions in the ancient Near East.

And behold, they are eating and drinking before him
The act of "eating and drinking" in the presence of a would-be king was a sign of allegiance and celebration. In biblical times, shared meals were covenantal acts, symbolizing unity and agreement. The Hebrew word for "behold" (הִנֵּה, hinneh) serves as an attention-grabbing device, emphasizing the importance of the scene and the participants' complicity in Adonijah's claim.

saying, ‘Long live King Adonijah!’
The acclamation "Long live" (יְחִי, yechi) is a traditional expression of loyalty and support for a ruler. By proclaiming "King Adonijah," the attendees publicly endorse his kingship, despite the absence of David's approval. This phrase underscores the tension and potential conflict within the royal succession, as it directly challenges the divine and dynastic promises made to Solomon, David's chosen heir.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Adonijah
The son of King David who attempts to declare himself king without David's blessing. His actions are central to the events of this chapter.

2. King David
The aging king of Israel, whose succession is in question. His decision will determine the future of the kingdom.

3. Solomon
The son of David and Bathsheba, whom God has chosen to succeed David as king, though not yet publicly declared.

4. Abiathar the Priest
A priest who supports Adonijah's claim to the throne, indicating a division among the religious leaders.

5. Joab
The commander of David's army, who also supports Adonijah, showing a split in military loyalty.

6. Jerusalem
The city where these events unfold, the political and spiritual center of Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite human attempts to control outcomes, God's will prevails. Adonijah's self-exaltation contrasts with God's choice of Solomon, reminding us to seek God's guidance in leadership decisions.

The Danger of Self-Promotion
Adonijah's actions serve as a warning against self-promotion and ambition that disregards God's will. We should be wary of pursuing positions or roles without seeking God's direction.

The Importance of Godly Counsel
The absence of Nathan the prophet and other godly advisors at Adonijah's feast highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise, God-fearing counsel.

Faithfulness to God's Promises
God's promise to David about his lineage is a testament to His faithfulness. We can trust that God will fulfill His promises in our lives, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Adonijah's attempt to become king reflect human tendencies to seek power and control? How can we guard against similar tendencies in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the support of Abiathar and Joab for Adonijah illustrate the potential for division within a community? How can we work towards unity in our own communities?

3. How does the account of Solomon's eventual rise to the throne encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, even when it seems delayed?

4. What role does godly counsel play in making important decisions, and how can we ensure we are seeking and listening to such counsel?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to wait for God's promise to be fulfilled. How did that experience strengthen your faith, and how can it encourage others who are waiting on God's promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16
The anointing of David as king, highlighting God's choice versus human ambition.

2 Samuel 7
God's covenant with David, promising that his lineage will continue to rule, which is fulfilled through Solomon.

1 Kings 2
The eventual establishment of Solomon as king, showing the fulfillment of God's plan despite human interference.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord's plan rather than leaning on one's own understanding, relevant to the contrast between Adonijah's self-promotion and God's choice of Solomon.