2 Samuel 3:4

his fourth was Adonijah, the son of Haggith; his fifth was Shephatiah, the son of Abital;

Study Bible

the fourth, Adonijah
The name "Adonijah" means "Yahweh is my Lord" in Hebrew. Adonijah was the fourth son of King David, and his name reflects a common practice of the time to incorporate the name of God (Yahweh) into personal names, signifying a dedication or acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. Historically, Adonijah later attempted to claim the throne of Israel, which provides a narrative of ambition and the complexities of royal succession in ancient Israel. His account is a reminder of the human tendency to seek power and the importance of divine guidance in leadership.

the son of Haggith
Haggith is one of David's wives, and her name means "festive" or "rejoicing" in Hebrew. The mention of the mother alongside the son in genealogical records highlights the importance of maternal lineage in the biblical narrative. This practice underscores the role of women in the heritage and identity of their children, even in a patriarchal society. Haggith's inclusion in the text reminds us of the often-overlooked influence of women in biblical history.

the fifth, Shephatiah
The name "Shephatiah" means "Yahweh has judged" in Hebrew. This name reflects a common theme in biblical names, where the character and actions of God are acknowledged. Shephatiah's position as the fifth son of David places him within the royal lineage, though he is less prominent in the biblical narrative. His name serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority and justice, a central theme throughout the Scriptures.

the son of Abital
Abital, another of David's wives, has a name meaning "my father is dew" in Hebrew, which can symbolize freshness, blessing, and life. The mention of Abital alongside her son Shephatiah highlights the significance of family connections and the continuity of God's promises through generations. In the broader biblical context, the inclusion of maternal names in genealogies emphasizes the integral role of women in the unfolding of God's plan, even when their accounts are not fully detailed in the text.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Adonijah
The fourth son of King David, born to Haggith. Adonijah later attempted to claim the throne of Israel, which led to significant conflict within David's family.

2. Haggith
One of King David's wives and the mother of Adonijah. Her role is primarily noted in the context of her son's ambitions.

3. Shephatiah
The fifth son of King David, born to Abital. Little is known about Shephatiah beyond his mention in the genealogies.

4. Abital
Another of King David's wives, the mother of Shephatiah. Like Haggith, her significance is tied to her offspring.

5. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his complex family dynamics and the challenges that arose from his multiple marriages and children.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Polygamy
David's multiple marriages led to complex family dynamics and strife. This serves as a cautionary tale about the complications that arise from not adhering to God's design for marriage.

Ambition and Its Dangers
Adonijah's ambition to become king, despite not being chosen by God, led to conflict and division. This highlights the importance of seeking God's will rather than pursuing personal ambition.

The Importance of Parental Guidance
David's lack of intervention in his children's lives, particularly with Adonijah, underscores the need for active and godly parenting.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite human attempts to control outcomes, God's sovereign plan prevails, as seen in Solomon's eventual anointing as king.

Family Dynamics and Faithfulness
The account encourages believers to navigate family relationships with wisdom and faithfulness, seeking God's guidance in all interactions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Adonijah's ambition reflect the potential pitfalls of unchecked personal desires? What can we learn from this about aligning our ambitions with God's will?

2. In what ways do the family dynamics in David's household illustrate the consequences of not following God's design for marriage? How can this inform our understanding of biblical marriage today?

3. How does David's response (or lack thereof) to his children's actions serve as a lesson for modern-day parenting? What biblical principles can guide us in raising our children?

4. How does the account of David's sons connect with the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty in leadership? What other biblical accounts reinforce this theme?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced family conflict. How can the lessons from David's family help you approach similar situations with wisdom and faithfulness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 1-2
These chapters detail Adonijah's attempt to usurp the throne and the subsequent anointing of Solomon as king, highlighting the familial strife and political intrigue within David's household.

1 Chronicles 3:1-9
This passage provides a parallel genealogy of David's sons, offering additional context and details about his family.

Deuteronomy 17:17
This verse warns against kings taking many wives, which can lead to their hearts being led astray. David's multiple marriages and the resulting family issues can be seen as a fulfillment of this warning.