But Adonijah, in fear of Solomon, got up and went to take hold of the horns of the altar. AdonijahAdonijah, whose name means "my Lord is Yahweh," was the fourth son of King David. His actions in this chapter reflect a common theme in the Old Testament: the struggle for power and the consequences of ambition. Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne without David's blessing highlights the importance of divine appointment and the dangers of self-exaltation. Historically, the succession of kings in Israel was a divine matter, often revealed through prophets or direct divine intervention, as seen in the anointing of David by Samuel. in fear
The phrase "in fear" captures Adonijah's realization of the gravity of his actions. Fear, in the biblical sense, often denotes a profound respect or reverence, but here it is more about terror and dread of the consequences. Adonijah's fear is a recognition of the legitimate authority of Solomon, whom God had chosen. This fear is not just of Solomon's potential wrath but also of divine retribution, as the kingship was seen as a divine institution. of Solomon
Solomon, whose name means "peace," was the son of David and Bathsheba. His rise to the throne was marked by divine favor and prophetic endorsement, as seen in 1 Chronicles 22:9-10. Solomon's wisdom and eventual reign of peace were foretold, making his kingship a fulfillment of God's promise to David. The fear of Solomon by Adonijah underscores the legitimacy and divine backing of Solomon's rule, contrasting with Adonijah's self-appointed claim. went and took hold
This action signifies a desperate plea for mercy. In ancient Israel, taking hold of something often symbolized seeking refuge or protection. The act of physically grasping an object was a way to claim sanctuary or appeal for clemency. This reflects a common practice in the ancient Near East, where individuals sought asylum in sacred spaces or by holding onto sacred objects. of the horns of the altar
The altar, particularly the horns, was a place of asylum in ancient Israel. The horns of the altar were considered sacred, and touching them was a way to seek divine protection. This practice is rooted in the belief that the altar was a place where God's presence dwelled, and thus, it was a place of mercy and refuge. The altar's horns, protruding from its corners, symbolized strength and divine power. By grasping them, Adonijah was appealing to the mercy of God and the king, acknowledging his wrongdoing and seeking pardon. This act is reminiscent of the cities of refuge described in Numbers 35, where those who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum. Persons / Places / Events 1. AdonijahThe son of King David who attempted to claim the throne of Israel without his father's blessing. His actions were driven by ambition and a desire for power. 2. SolomonThe son of David and Bathsheba, chosen by David and anointed by the prophet Nathan and priest Zadok to be the next king of Israel. His rise to power was divinely ordained. 3. The AltarA sacred place in the tabernacle where sacrifices were made to God. The "horns of the altar" were considered a place of asylum or refuge, symbolizing God's mercy and protection. 4. FearAdonijah's fear of Solomon's retribution led him to seek sanctuary at the altar, highlighting the consequences of his rebellion and the recognition of Solomon's legitimate authority. 5. SanctuaryThe act of taking hold of the altar's horns was a plea for mercy and protection, reflecting ancient customs where the altar served as a place of refuge for those seeking divine intervention. Teaching Points The Consequences of AmbitionAdonijah's account warns against unchecked ambition and the importance of seeking God's will rather than pursuing personal desires. Seeking Refuge in GodThe act of taking hold of the altar's horns symbolizes seeking God's mercy and protection. Believers are encouraged to seek refuge in God during times of fear and uncertainty. Recognizing Divine AuthorityAdonijah's fear of Solomon underscores the importance of recognizing and submitting to God's chosen leaders and His divine order. Repentance and MercyThe altar represents a place of repentance and mercy. Believers are reminded of the importance of seeking forgiveness and the assurance of God's grace. The Role of Fear in Decision-MakingAdonijah's fear led him to seek refuge, highlighting how fear can drive decisions. Christians are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty rather than be driven by fear. Bible Study Questions 1. What motivated Adonijah to seek refuge at the altar, and how does this reflect his understanding of God's mercy? 2. How does the concept of sanctuary at the altar relate to the New Testament understanding of seeking refuge in Christ? 3. In what ways can unchecked ambition lead to fear and insecurity, as seen in Adonijah's actions? 4. How can believers today find refuge in God during times of fear and uncertainty, and what practical steps can they take to seek His protection? 5. How does recognizing and submitting to God's chosen leaders apply to our lives today, and what challenges might we face in doing so? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 21:14This verse discusses the concept of sanctuary and the limitations of the altar as a place of refuge, emphasizing that premeditated murderers could not find protection there. Psalm 118:27The psalmist speaks of binding the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar, symbolizing dedication and submission to God's will. Hebrews 6:18This passage speaks of fleeing for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us, drawing a parallel to seeking sanctuary in God's promises. People Abiathar, Abishag, Absalom, Adonijah, Bathsheba, Benaiah, Cherethites, David, Haggith, Jehoiada, Joab, Jonathan, Kerethites, Nathan, Pelethites, Rei, Shimei, Solomon, Zadok, ZeruiahPlaces En-rogel, Gihon, Jerusalem, Serpent's StoneTopics Adonijah, Adoni'jah, Afraid, Altar, Caught, Fear, Feared, Feareth, Full, Got, Hands, Hold, Horns, Layeth, Riseth, SolomonDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Kings 1:5-53 5087 David, reign of 1 Kings 1:50-51 4654 horn
7302 altar Library David Appointing Solomon
'Then king David answered and said, Call me Bath-sheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29. And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30. Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31. Then Bath-sheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureGihon, the Same with the Fountain of Siloam.
I. In 1 Kings 1:33,38, that which is, in the Hebrew, "Bring ye Solomon to Gihon: and they brought him to Gihon"; is rendered by the Chaldee, "Bring ye him to Siloam: and they brought him to Siloam." Where Kimchi thus; "Gihon is Siloam, and it is called by a double name. And David commanded, that they should anoint Solomon at Gihon for a good omen, to wit, that, as the waters of the fountain are everlasting, so might his kingdom be." So also the Jerusalem writers; "They do not anoint the king, but …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Adonijah
BY REV. ALFRED ROWLAND, D.D., LL.B. It is notorious that the sons of devout men sometimes prove a curse to their parents, and bring dishonour on the cause of God. When Eve rejoiced over her first-born, she little suspected that passions were sleeping within him which would impel him to slay his own brother; and the experience of the first mother has been repeated, though in different forms, in all lands and in all ages. Isaac's heart was rent by the deceit of Jacob, and by the self-will of Esau. …
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known Whether Prayer Should be Vocal?
Objection 1: It would seem that prayer ought not to be vocal. As stated above [3025](A[4]), prayer is addressed chiefly to God. Now God knows the language of the heart. Therefore it is useless to employ vocal prayer. Objection 2: Further, prayer should lift man's mind to God, as stated above (A[1], ad 2). But words, like other sensible objects, prevent man from ascending to God by contemplation. Therefore we should not use words in our prayers. Objection 3: Further, prayer should be offered to God …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica The Reign of David.
2 Sam.; 1 Chron. Chs. 11-29; 1 K 1:1-2:11. His Reign over Judah. The reign of David is divided into two parts. The first part was over Judah, with the capitol at Hebron, and lasted seven and one-half years. During this period Ishbosheth, son of Saul, reigned over Israel in the North. It is probable that both of these kings were regarded as vassals of the Philistines and paid tribute. On account of rival leaders, there was constant warfare between these two rival kings. The kingdom of Judah, however, …
Josiah Blake Tidwell—The Bible Period by Period The Fact of the Redeemer's Return was Typified in the Lives of Joseph and Solomon.
In the Old Testament there are numerous references to the Second Coming of Christ, references both direct and typical, but in every instance it was His return to the earth which was in view. The secret coming of Christ into the air, to catch up the saints to Himself, was an event quite unknown to the Old Testament prophets, an event kept secret until revealed by God to the apostle Paul who, when writing to the Corinthians upon this particular aspect of our subject, said, "Behold, I show you a mystery …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return Of Justification by Faith. Both the Name and the Reality Defined.
Sections. 1. Connection between the doctrine of Justification and that of Regeneration. The knowledge of this doctrine very necessary for two reasons. 2. For the purpose of facilitating the exposition of it, the terms are explained. 1. What it is to be justified in the sight of God. 2. To be justified by works. 3. To be justified by faith. Definition. 3. Various meanings of the term Justification. 1. To give praise to God and truth. 2. To make a vain display of righteousness. 3. To impute righteousness …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents
"Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it."--Prov. 22:6. I SUPPOSE that most professing Christians are acquainted with the text at the head of this page. The sound of it is probably familiar to your ears, like an old tune. It is likely you have heard it, or read it, talked of it, or quoted it, many a time. Is it not so? But, after all, how little is the substance of this text regarded! The doctrine it contains appears scarcely known, the duty it puts …
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men
WHEN St. Paul wrote his Epistle to Titus about his duty as a minister, he mentioned young men as a class requiring peculiar attention. After speaking of aged men and aged women, and young women, he adds this pithy advice, "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded" (Tit. 2:6). I am going to follow the Apostle's advice. I propose to offer a few words of friendly exhortation to young men. I am growing old myself, but there are few things I remember so well as the days of my youth. I have a most …
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times Christ a Complete Saviour:
OR, THE INTERCESSION OF CHRIST, AND WHO ARE PRIVILEGED IN IT. BY JOHN BUNYAN Advertisement by the Editor. However strange it may appear, it is a solemn fact, that the heart of man, unless prepared by a sense of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, rejects Christ as a complete Saviour. The pride of human nature will not suffer it to fall, as helpless and utterly undone, into the arms of Divine mercy. Man prefers a partial Saviour; one who had done so much, that, with the sinner's aid, the work might be …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 1 Kings 1:50 NIV1 Kings 1:50 NLT1 Kings 1:50 ESV1 Kings 1:50 NASB1 Kings 1:50 KJV
1 Kings 1:50 Commentaries
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