◄ 1 Kings 1 ►
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Abishag Cares for David 1Now King David was old and well along in years, and though they covered him with blankets, he could not keep warm. 2So his servants said to him, “Let us search for a young virgin for our lord the king, to attend to him and care for him and lie by his side to keep him warm.” 3Then they searched throughout Israel for a beautiful girl, and they found Abishag the Shunammite and brought her to the king. 4The girl was unsurpassed in beauty; she cared for the king and served him, but he had no relations with her. Adonijah Usurps the Kingdom 5At that time Adonijah, David’s son by Haggith, began to exalt himself, saying, “I will be king!” And he acquired chariots and horsemen and fifty men to run ahead of him. 6(His father had never once reprimanded him by saying, “Why do you act this way?” Adonijah was also very handsome, born next after Absalom.) 7So Adonijah conferred with Joab son of Zeruiah and with Abiathar the priest, who supported him. 8But Zadok the priest, Benaiah son of Jehoiada, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, Rei, and David’s mighty men would not join Adonijah. 9And Adonijah sacrificed sheep, oxen, and fattened calves near the stone of Zoheleth,a which is next to En-rogel. He invited all his royal brothers and all the men of Judah who were servants of the king. 10But he did not invite Nathan the prophet, Benaiah, the mighty men, or his brother Solomon. Nathan and Bathsheba before David 11Then Nathan said to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, “Have you not heard that Adonijah son of Haggith has become king, and our lord David does not know it? 12Now please, come and let me advise you. Save your own life and the life of your son Solomon. 13Go at once to King David and say, ‘My lord the king, did you not swear to your maidservant, “Surely your son Solomon will reign after me, and he will sit on my throne”? Why then has Adonijah become king?’ 14Then, while you are still there speaking with the king, I will come in after you and confirm your words.” 15So Bathsheba went to see the king in his bedroom. Since the king was very old, Abishag the Shunammite was serving him. 16And Bathsheba bowed down in homage to the king, who asked, “What is your desire?” 17“My lord,” she replied, “you yourself swore to your maidservant by the LORD your God: ‘Surely your son Solomon will reign after me, and he will sit on my throne.’ 18But now, behold, Adonijah has become king, and you, my lord the king, do not know it. 19And he has sacrificed an abundance of oxen, fattened calves, and sheep, and has invited all the other sons of the king, as well as Abiathar the priest and Joab the commander of the army. But he has not invited your servant Solomon. 20And as for you, my lord the king, the eyes of all Israel are upon you to tell them who will sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21Otherwise, when my lord the king rests with his fathers, I and my son Solomon will be counted as criminals.” 22And just then, while Bathsheba was still speaking with the king, Nathan the prophet arrived. 23So the king was told, “Nathan the prophet is here.” And Nathan went in and bowed facedown before the king. 24“My lord the king,” said Nathan, “did you say, ‘Adonijah will reign after me, and he will sit on my throne’? 25For 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 commandersb of the army, and Abiathar the priest. And behold, they are eating and drinking before him, saying, ‘Long live King Adonijah!’ 26But me your servant he has not invited, nor Zadok the priest, nor Benaiah son of Jehoiada, nor your servant Solomon. 27Has my lord the king let this happen without informing your servant who should sit on the throne after my lord the king?” David Renews His Oath to Bathsheba 28Then King David said, “Call in Bathsheba for me.” So she came into the king’s presence and stood before him. 29And the king swore an oath, saying, “As surely as the LORD lives, who has redeemed my life from all distress, 30I will carry out this very day exactly what I swore to you by the LORD, the God of Israel: Surely your son Solomon will reign after me, and he will sit on my throne in my place.” 31Bathsheba bowed facedown in homage to the king and said, “May my lord King David live forever!” Solomon Anointed King (1 Chronicles 29:21–25) 32Then King David said, “Call in for me Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada.” So they came before the king. 33“Take my servants with you,” said the king. “Set my son Solomon on my own mule and take him down to Gihon. 34There Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet are to anoint him king over Israel. You are to blow the ram’s horn and declare, ‘Long live King Solomon!’ 35Then you shall go up with him, and he is to come and sit on my throne and reign in my place. For I have appointed him ruler over Israel and Judah.” 36“Amen,” replied Benaiah son of Jehoiada. “May the LORD, the God of my lord the king, so declare it. 37Just as the LORD was with my lord the king, so may He be with Solomon and make his throne even greater than that of my lord King David.” 38Then Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada, along with the Cherethites and Pelethites, went down and set Solomon on King David’s mule, and they escorted him to Gihon. 39Zadok the priest took the horn of oil from the tabernacle and anointed Solomon. Then they blew the ram’s horn, and all the people proclaimed, “Long live King Solomon!” 40All the people followed him, playing flutes and rejoicing with such a great joy that the earth was split by the sound. Adonijah Learns of Solomon’s Kingship 41Now Adonijah and all his guests were finishing their feast when they heard the sound of the ram’s horn. “Why is the city in such a loud uproar?” asked Joab. 42As he was speaking, suddenly Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest arrived. “Come in,” said Adonijah, “for you are a man of valor. You must be bringing good news.” 43“Not at all,” Jonathan replied. “Our lord King David has made Solomon king. 44And with Solomon, the king has sent Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada, along with the Cherethites and Pelethites, and they have set him on the king’s mule. 45Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet have anointed him king at Gihon, and they have gone up from there with rejoicing that rings out in the city. That is the noise you hear. 46Moreover, Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. 47The king’s servants have also gone to congratulate our lord King David, saying, ‘May your God make the name of Solomon more famous than your own name, and may He make his throne greater than your throne.’ And the king has bowed in worship on his bed, 48saying, ‘Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel! Today He has provided onec to sit on my throne, and my eyes have seen it.’” 49At this, all the guests of Adonijah arose in terror and scattered. 50But Adonijah, in fear of Solomon, got up and went to take hold of the horns of the altar. 51It was reported to Solomon: “Behold, Adonijah fears King Solomon, and he has taken hold of the horns of the altar, saying, ‘Let King Solomon first swear to me not to put his servant to the sword.’” 52And Solomon replied, “If he is a man of character, not a single hair of his will fall to the ground. But if evil is found in him, he will die.” 53So King Solomon summoned Adonijah down from the altar, and he came and bowed down before King Solomon, who said to him, “Go to your home.” Footnotes: 9 a Or the Serpent’s Stone 25 b Hebrew; LXX Joab the commander 48 c LXX one of my offspring Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Kings 1 Summary Solomon Anointed King Verses 1–4 – David’s Declining Vitality King David, now very old, cannot keep warm even under many blankets. His servants bring Abishag the Shunammite, a young woman who cares for him and lies beside him to provide body heat. Although she serves intimately, the text stresses, “the king did not cohabit with her,” underscoring David’s physical weakness and moral restraint. Verses 5–10 – Adonijah’s Self-Exaltation Sensing his father’s frailty, Adonijah—David’s handsome fourth son—claims the throne. He gathers chariots, horsemen, and fifty men to run before him, winning support from Joab the commander and Abiathar the priest. Yet he pointedly excludes Nathan the prophet, Zadok the priest, Benaiah, mighty men loyal to David, and Solomon. At En-rogel he hosts a grand sacrifice to seal his claim. Verses 11–27 – Nathan and Bathsheba Intervene Nathan alerts Bathsheba that Adonijah’s move threatens both her life and Solomon’s. She reminds David of his sworn promise: “Surely your son Solomon shall be king after me” (v 17). Nathan follows, confirming her words and informing David that Adonijah is already hailed as king. The aging monarch has made no such decree. Verses 28–37 – David Commissions Solomon Stirred to action, David renews his oath: “Solomon your son shall be king after me” (v 30). He orders Zadok, Nathan, and Benaiah to seat Solomon on the royal mule, escort him to Gihon, anoint him, blow the trumpet, and proclaim him king. Benaiah answers, “Amen! May the LORD, the God of my lord the king, so declare it” (v 36). Verses 38–40 – Solomon Anointed King The procession descends to the Gihon Spring. Zadok anoints Solomon with sacred oil from the tent, the trumpet sounds, and all the people shout, “Long live King Solomon!” Music erupts, and the noise is so great “the earth split with the sound” (v 40), announcing God-approved succession. Verses 41–53 – Adonijah Seeks Mercy Adonijah’s feast hears the commotion. Jonathan son of Abiathar arrives with news: David has made Solomon king. Panic strikes; the guests scatter. Adonijah flees to the altar’s horns for asylum. Solomon promises safety if he proves “a worthy man,” but warns that evil will be punished (v 52). Adonijah bows in submission, and the chapter closes with a fragile peace. 1 Kings 1 paints a vivid picture of the turbulent transition of power from King David to his successor, Solomon. Amid the backdrop of the frailty of the aging King David, this chapter introduces the political scheming of David's son Adonijah, who attempts to seize power prematurely. Yet, with divine guidance and human courage, the righteous Solomon is anointed and ascends to the throne, marking the dawn of a new era in Israelite history. Historical Setting and Chronology • David’s forty-year reign ends around 971 BC. The events occur in Jerusalem near the Gihon Spring, the city’s primary water source. • Ancient Near Eastern custom required swift succession when a monarch weakened, lest rivals split the kingdom. Scripture highlights the urgency without questioning David’s legitimacy or God’s choice. Key Locations and Archaeological Notes • Gihon Spring: Archaeologists have traced Hezekiah’s Tunnel and Warren’s Shaft connecting to this vital water supply. Crowning Solomon there linked the new king to the life-giving source of the city. • En-Rogel: A well just outside Jerusalem’s southern tip. Adonijah likely chose it to avoid immediate confrontation yet remain close to the capital. • Horns of the Altar: Four protrusions on the bronze altar offered asylum (cf. Exodus 21:13–14). Excavations at Tel Arad reveal horned altars typical of the period. Principal Characters and Their Motivations • David: Though weakened, he remains responsible to keep his oath and safeguard God’s plan (2 Samuel 7:12–13). • Solomon: The chosen heir, still young, trusts God and the elders to act on his behalf. • Adonijah: Repeats Absalom’s tactic—public display and chariot entourage (2 Samuel 15:1). His ambition overrides respect for God’s declared choice. • Nathan & Bathsheba: Courageously steer the king back to his promise, illustrating the vital role of prophetic accountability and maternal advocacy. • Zadok vs. Abiathar: Two priestly lines; Zadok’s fidelity is rewarded, while Abiathar’s allegiance to Adonijah foreshadows his later removal (1 Kings 2:26–27). Political and Spiritual Dynamics of Succession 1. Divine Selection: The throne passes by God’s word, not merely by birth order (Psalm 78:70–71). 2. Human Responsibility: David must act—anointing, public proclamation, practical steps. Faith does not cancel action. 3. Prophetic Voice: Nathan defends God’s promise, echoing Samuel’s earlier role with Saul and David. 4. Covenant Oath: Breaking a king’s oath jeopardizes national security and invites divine judgment (Numbers 30:2). 5. Mercy with Conditions: Solomon tempers justice—he spares Adonijah yet sets a clear line (“If evil is found in him, he will die,” v 52). Key Themes for Believers • God safeguards His purposes even through human frailty. • Ambition detached from God’s will breeds division. • A public stand for righteousness, like Nathan’s, may rescue a nation. • True mercy is neither weak nor blind; it insists on future obedience. Prophetic Threads and Messianic Foreshadowing • The anointing of Solomon, a son of David who brings peace (his name means “peaceful”), anticipates the ultimate Son of David—Jesus—whose coronation involves public acclaim (Matthew 21:9). • Solomon riding the royal mule recalls Christ’s humble entry on a colt, signaling legitimate yet gentle kingship (Zechariah 9:9). • Solomon’s early acts of mercy prefigure Christ’s offer of grace balanced with truth (John 8:11). Echoes in the Wider Canon • 1 Chronicles 28–29 retells the scene, highlighting temple preparations and national giving. • Psalm 132 celebrates the Lord’s choice of Zion and David’s line: “I will set upon your throne one from the fruit of your body.” • Proverbs 20:28—traditionally linked to Solomon—underscores that “loving devotion and faithfulness guard a king.” Lessons for Today’s Believer • Keep vows—whether marriage, leadership, or everyday promises. The integrity of words sustains trust. • Seek God’s counsel before pursuing opportunity; not every open door is from Him. • Respect godly process: prophetic insight, priestly intercession, and righteous leadership work together. • When confronted with wrongdoing, respond like Nathan—honor, clarity, and prompt action. • Extend mercy but establish boundaries; forgiveness is not permissiveness. Selected Scripture Connections • 2 Samuel 7:16 – “Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before Me.” • Psalm 89:35–36 – God will not lie to David; his line will continue. • Hebrews 6:17 – God shows “the unchangeable nature of His purpose” with an oath, mirroring David’s sworn promise. Concluding Thought 1 Kings 1 shows that God’s faithfulness outlasts human weakness. When leaders, prophets, and faithful believers align with His promise, even a kingdom on the brink can pivot toward peace and purpose. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. This verse echoes the consequences of Adonijah’s pride. James 4:10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you. This New Testament teaching aligns with the humility required to follow God’s will. Psalm 37:23 The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey. This verse reassures us of God’s sovereignty in guiding our paths. Teaching Points The Frailty of Human Leadership Now King David was old and advanced in years, and though they covered him with blankets, he could not get warm (1 Kings 1:1). David’s physical weakness highlights the limitations of human leaders and the need for God’s guidance. Adonijah’s Ambition Adonijah son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, 'I will be king.' So he prepared chariots, cavalry, and fifty men to run ahead of him (1 Kings 1:5). Adonijah’s self-exaltation contrasts with God’s choice, reminding us that human ambition often conflicts with divine will. The Role of Prophets and Priests Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, play crucial roles in alerting David to Adonijah’s actions (1 Kings 1:11-14). This underscores the importance of godly counsel and prophetic voices in guiding leadership decisions. David’s Response and Solomon’s Anointing Then King David said, 'Call in Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada for me.' When they came before the king, he said to them, 'Take my servants with you, have my son Solomon mount my own mule, and take him down to Gihon' (1 Kings 1:32-33). David’s decisive action in anointing Solomon demonstrates obedience to God’s plan. Practical Applications Seek God’s Will in Leadership Just as David sought God’s guidance in appointing Solomon, we should seek divine direction in our leadership roles and decisions. Beware of Self-Exaltation Adonijah’s downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-promotion. We should humbly submit to God’s timing and purposes. Value Godly Counsel Surround yourself with wise and godly advisors who can provide insight and guidance, much like Nathan and Bathsheba did for David. Act Decisively in Obedience When God’s will is clear, act with courage and decisiveness, trusting that He will establish His plans. People 1. King David The aging king of Israel who is described as being advanced in years and unable to keep warm. He is the central figure in the transition of power to his successor. 2. Abishag the Shunammite A young woman brought to attend to King David and keep him warm. She is described as very beautiful and serves the king, but they do not have sexual relations. 3. Adonijah The son of King David and Haggith, who exalts himself and declares his intention to become king. He is described as handsome and is the fourth son of David. 4. Joab son of Zeruiah The commander of David's army who supports Adonijah's claim to the throne. Joab is a seasoned military leader and a relative of David. 5. Abiathar the priest A priest who also supports Adonijah. He has served David faithfully in the past but chooses to align with Adonijah in this instance. 6. Zadok the priest A priest who remains loyal to King David and supports Solomon's claim to the throne. Zadok plays a crucial role in anointing Solomon as king. 7. Benaiah son of Jehoiada A loyal supporter of King David and Solomon, known for his bravery and leadership. He is the commander of David's bodyguard and later becomes a key military leader under Solomon. 8. Nathan the prophet A prophet who remains loyal to David and plays a pivotal role in ensuring Solomon's succession to the throne. Nathan advises Bathsheba on how to approach David regarding Solomon's kingship. 9. Shimei Mentioned as one of those not invited to Adonijah's feast, indicating his loyalty to David and Solomon. 10. Rei Another individual not invited to Adonijah's feast, suggesting his allegiance to David and Solomon. 11. Solomon The son of King David and Bathsheba, chosen by David to be his successor. Solomon is anointed king by Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet. 12. Bathsheba The mother of Solomon and wife of King David. She plays a significant role in securing Solomon's position as king by approaching David with Nathan's guidance. 13. Jonathan son of Abiathar A messenger who informs Adonijah of Solomon's anointing as king. He is the son of Abiathar the priest. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central city where much of the narrative takes place. It is the capital of Israel and the location of King David's palace. In Hebrew, Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), a city of great significance in biblical history. 2. Gihon Gihon is the site where Solomon is anointed as king. It is a spring located near Jerusalem, significant for its association with the anointing of kings. The Hebrew root "גִּיחוֹן" (Gihon) suggests a place of bursting forth, fitting for a site of royal anointing. 3. En Rogel En Rogel is a location near Jerusalem where Adonijah holds a feast to declare himself king. The name "עֵין רֹגֵל" (En Rogel) in Hebrew means "spring of the fuller," indicating a place where laundry was traditionally done. 4. Mount Zion While not explicitly named in 1 Kings 1, Mount Zion is often associated with Jerusalem and the City of David, where King David's palace is located. In Hebrew, "צִיּוֹן" (Tziyon) is a term that represents the spiritual and political heart of Israel. Events 1. David's Old Age and Abishag's Care King David was advanced in years and unable to keep warm, even when covered with blankets. His servants suggested finding a young virgin to attend to him and keep him warm. They found Abishag the Shunammite, who served the king but did not become his wife. (1 Kings 1:1-4) 2. Adonijah's Ambition for the Throne Adonijah, the son of Haggith, exalted himself, saying, "I will be king." He prepared chariots and horsemen and fifty men to run before him. His father, David, had never rebuked him, and he was very handsome, born after Absalom. (1 Kings 1:5-6) 3. Adonijah's Supporters Adonijah conferred with Joab, the son of Zeruiah, and Abiathar the priest, who supported him. However, Zadok the priest, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, Rei, and David's mighty men did not support Adonijah. (1 Kings 1:7-8) 4. Adonijah's Feast Adonijah sacrificed sheep, cattle, and fattened calves by the Stone of Zoheleth near En Rogel. He invited all his brothers, the king's sons, and all the royal officials of Judah, but he did not invite Nathan the prophet, Benaiah, the mighty men, or Solomon. (1 Kings 1:9-10) 5. Nathan and Bathsheba's Intervention Nathan the prophet approached Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, advising her to save her life and Solomon's by informing King David of Adonijah's actions. Nathan planned to come in after her to confirm her words. (1 Kings 1:11-14) 6. Bathsheba's Appeal to David Bathsheba went to King David, reminding him of his oath that Solomon would succeed him as king. She informed him of Adonijah's actions and the lack of invitation to Solomon. (1 Kings 1:15-21) 7. Nathan's Confirmation Nathan entered and confirmed Bathsheba's report to David, questioning if Adonijah's actions were with the king's approval. He highlighted the absence of Solomon and other key figures at Adonijah's feast. (1 Kings 1:22-27) 8. David's Decision to Anoint Solomon King David summoned Bathsheba, reaffirming his oath by the LORD, the God of Israel, that Solomon would reign after him. He instructed Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah to anoint Solomon as king over Israel. (1 Kings 1:28-35) 9. Solomon's Anointing Solomon rode on King David's mule to Gihon, where Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anointed him king. They blew the trumpet, and all the people shouted, "Long live King Solomon!" (1 Kings 1:38-40) 10. Adonijah's Fear and Submission Hearing the noise, Adonijah and his guests were alarmed. Jonathan, son of Abiathar the priest, informed them of Solomon's anointing. Adonijah feared Solomon and sought refuge by taking hold of the horns of the altar. Solomon spared him, provided he proved himself worthy. (1 Kings 1:41-53) Lessons from 1 Kings 1 1. The Importance of Godly Leadership In 1 Kings 1, we see the transition of leadership from King David to Solomon. This chapter reminds us of the importance of having leaders who seek God's wisdom and guidance. As David instructs Solomon, we are reminded of Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." Godly leadership is crucial for guiding others in righteousness and truth. 2. The Power of Prayer and Petition Bathsheba and Nathan approach King David with a request concerning Solomon's kingship. This act of petitioning the king is a powerful reminder of the importance of prayer in our lives. Philippians 4:6 encourages us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Just as Bathsheba and Nathan sought the king's favor, we too can approach our Heavenly Father with confidence. 3. The Consequences of Ambition Without God Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne without God's blessing serves as a cautionary tale. His ambition led him astray because he did not seek the Lord's will. James 4:3 warns, "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures." Ambition is not inherently wrong, but it must be aligned with God's purpose. 4. The Role of Wise Counsel Nathan the prophet plays a crucial role in guiding the events of 1 Kings 1. His wisdom and insight help ensure that God's plan is fulfilled. Proverbs 11:14 states, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." Surrounding ourselves with wise, godly counsel can help us navigate life's challenges and make decisions that honor God. 5. The Faithfulness of God's Promises God had promised David that Solomon would succeed him as king, and despite the challenges, this promise was fulfilled. 1 Kings 1 is a testament to God's faithfulness. As Hebrews 10:23 reminds us, "Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful." We can trust that God will fulfill His promises in our lives as well. 6. The Significance of Anointing Solomon's anointing as king is a powerful symbol of God's chosen leadership. Anointing signifies being set apart for God's purpose. In 1 John 2:20, we read, "But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth." As believers, we are anointed by the Holy Spirit, set apart to live out God's calling in our lives. 7. The Value of Humility Solomon's ascent to the throne is marked by humility and reliance on God's guidance. In contrast, Adonijah's pride leads to his downfall. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Embracing humility allows us to be open to God's leading and to serve others selflessly. 8. The Impact of Obedience David's obedience to God's direction in appointing Solomon as king demonstrates the importance of following God's commands. 1 Samuel 15:22 reminds us, "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." Obedience to God brings about His perfect will and blessings in our lives. 9. The Necessity of Courage Nathan and Bathsheba's courage in approaching King David highlights the importance of standing up for what is right. Joshua 1:9 encourages us, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Courage, rooted in faith, empowers us to act according to God's will. 10. The Assurance of God's Sovereignty Throughout 1 Kings 1, we see God's sovereign hand at work, orchestrating events according to His divine plan. Romans 8:28 assures us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Trusting in God's sovereignty gives us peace and confidence, knowing that He is in control of every situation. Topics 1. David's Old Age and Abishag the Shunammite In 1 Kings 1:1-4, King David is described as being "old and advanced in years," unable to keep warm. His servants suggest finding a young virgin to attend to him and keep him warm. Abishag the Shunammite is chosen for this role. The Hebrew term for "advanced in years" (זָקֵן, zaken) emphasizes David's frailty and the need for a successor. 2. Adonijah's Ambition for the Throne Verses 5-10 detail Adonijah, the son of Haggith, who "exalted himself, saying, 'I will be king.'" He prepares chariots and horsemen and gathers supporters, including Joab and Abiathar the priest. The Hebrew root for "exalted" (נָשָׂא, nasa) indicates Adonijah's self-promotion and ambition. 3. Nathan and Bathsheba's Intervention In 1 Kings 1:11-14, Nathan the prophet approaches Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, to inform her of Adonijah's actions. He advises her to speak to King David to remind him of his promise that Solomon would succeed him. The narrative highlights the importance of prophetic counsel and maternal influence in royal succession. 4. Bathsheba Appeals to King David Verses 15-21 describe Bathsheba's audience with King David, where she reminds him of his oath regarding Solomon's kingship. The Hebrew word for "oath" (שְׁבוּעָה, shevu'ah) underscores the binding nature of David's promise. 5. Nathan Confirms Bathsheba's Report In 1 Kings 1:22-27, Nathan enters the king's presence to confirm Bathsheba's report and to question why Adonijah is acting as king without David's knowledge. This section emphasizes the role of prophetic authority in affirming God's chosen leader. 6. David's Declaration of Solomon as King Verses 28-37 recount David's response to the situation. He reaffirms his oath and commands that Solomon be anointed king. The Hebrew term for "anoint" (מָשַׁח, mashach) is significant, as it denotes the divine appointment and consecration of a leader. 7. Solomon's Anointing and Enthronement In 1 Kings 1:38-40, Solomon is anointed by Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet at Gihon. The people rejoice, and the city is filled with the sound of celebration. The Hebrew root for "rejoice" (שָׂמַח, samach) reflects the public's approval and joy at Solomon's ascension. 8. Adonijah's Fear and Submission Verses 41-53 describe Adonijah's reaction to Solomon's anointing. Fearing for his life, he seeks refuge at the altar. Solomon shows mercy, allowing Adonijah to return home if he proves himself worthy. The Hebrew concept of seeking asylum at the altar highlights the sacredness and protection associated with the sanctuary. Themes 1. Transition of Leadership The chapter begins with the aging King David, highlighting the need for a new leader for Israel. This theme is evident in the opening verse: "Now King David was old and advanced in years" (1 Kings 1:1). The Hebrew word for "advanced" (בָּא בַּיָּמִים, ba bayamim) suggests the natural progression of time and the necessity for succession. 2. Divine Providence and Kingship The theme of divine providence is seen in the selection of Solomon as king, despite Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne. Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba remind David of God's promise: "Did you not, my lord the king, swear to your maidservant, saying, ‘Surely your son Solomon shall reign after me, and he shall sit on my throne’?" (1 Kings 1:17). This reflects the Hebrew understanding of God's sovereign will in leadership. 3. Human Ambition and Intrigue Adonijah's self-exaltation as king illustrates human ambition and political intrigue. He "exalted himself, saying, 'I will be king'" (1 Kings 1:5). The Hebrew verb for "exalted" (וַיִּתְנַשֵּׂא, vayyitnasse) conveys a sense of self-promotion and pride, contrasting with God's chosen plan. 4. Prophetic Intervention Nathan the prophet plays a crucial role in ensuring God's will is fulfilled. His intervention is a reminder of the importance of prophetic voices in guiding and correcting leadership: "Nathan spoke to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon" (1 Kings 1:11). The Hebrew root נָבִיא (navi) for "prophet" underscores the role of speaking forth God's truth. 5. Legitimacy and Authority The anointing of Solomon as king by Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet establishes his legitimate authority. "Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet have anointed him king at Gihon" (1 Kings 1:45). The act of anointing (מָשַׁח, mashach) signifies divine approval and the conferring of authority. 6. Divine Justice and Order The resolution of the conflict between Adonijah and Solomon reflects divine justice and the restoration of order. Solomon's ascension to the throne is seen as the rightful fulfillment of God's plan, bringing peace and stability to the kingdom. This theme is encapsulated in the people's response: "And all the people went up after him, playing flutes and rejoicing with great joy" (1 Kings 1:40). The Hebrew word for "rejoicing" (שָׂמַח, samach) indicates a communal celebration of divine justice. Prayer Points Pray for humility and a heart aligned with God’s will, avoiding the pitfalls of pride and self-exaltation. Ask for wisdom and discernment in leadership roles, seeking God’s guidance in all decisions. Pray for the courage to act decisively when God’s direction is clear, trusting in His plans and purposes. Seek God’s protection and guidance for current leaders, that they may be surrounded by wise and godly counsel. Answering Tough Questions 1. How credible is the account of David’s old age and his inability to stay warm in 1 Kings 1:1–4, given the practice of using a young attendant for warmth? 2. Why is there scant historical or archaeological evidence supporting Adonijah’s self-declaration as king (1 Kings 1:5–10)? 3. Is the sudden political shift to support Solomon, described in 1 Kings 1:11–14, historically plausible without records of major resistance or conflict? 4. Does Nathan and Bathsheba’s intervention (1 Kings 1:11–27) contradict earlier portrayals of divine appointment of kings in Israel? 5. Why does Solomon’s succession in 1 Kings 1:28–40 ignore the usual primogeniture, given the elder sons who remained alive? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the frailty of King David at the beginning of this chapter reflect the vulnerability of human power? 2. What traits in Adonijah's character led him to prematurely claim the throne? 3. How do Adonijah's actions demonstrate the consequences of ambition without wisdom or righteousness? 4. Compare the roles of the different priests - Abiathar and Zadok - in this chapter. What does this tell us about religious authority and political power? 5. Discuss Nathan's role as a prophet and his courage to confront King David. How can we apply this to standing up for truth in today's society? 6. Bathsheba had a critical role in securing Solomon's ascension. Discuss her character and her influence as a woman in this historical context. 7. Analyze King David's response to Bathsheba and Nathan's appeal. What does this reveal about David's leadership and his respect for his promise? 8. How does Solomon's anointing contrast with Adonijah's feast? What does this tell us about the difference between human and divine appointments? 9. The account mentions that Solomon was led on David's mule. What might this symbolize? 10. What does the overwhelming joy of the people at Solomon's anointment signify about their perception of Solomon's rule? 11. Discuss the importance of mercy in leadership, as demonstrated by Solomon's decision to spare Adonijah. How can this principle be applied in modern-day leadership? 12. How does the narrative reflect the theme of divine providence over human ambition? 13. Reflect on how God's promise to David was fulfilled despite Adonijah's attempts to usurp the throne. 14. How does the concept of rightful succession in 1 Kings 1 resonate in today's political systems? 15. What are some lessons modern leaders can learn from Solomon's ascension to the throne? 16. How do the actions of Nathan and Bathsheba serve as examples of effective intercession? 17. How does Solomon's response to Adonijah's fear reflect wisdom and understanding? 18. What does the reaction of Adonijah's guests reveal about loyalty in times of crisis? 19. What lessons on conflict resolution can be drawn from this chapter? 20. In today's context, how can one discern between rightful ambition and the pursuit of power for its own sake, as exhibited by Adonijah? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions