The account of Hadad's father's servants is found within the historical narrative of the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the political and military dynamics of the ancient Near East. This entry explores the role and significance of these servants in the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to Hadad, an Edomite adversary of King Solomon.

Biblical Context

The primary reference to Hadad's father's servants is found in 1 Kings 11:14-22. This passage details the rise of Hadad as an adversary to Solomon, following the latter's deviation from the covenantal laws of God. The text states:

"Then the LORD raised up against Solomon an adversary, Hadad the Edomite, from the royal line of Edom. Earlier, when David was fighting with Edom, Joab the commander of the army had gone up to bury the dead, and he had struck down every male in Edom. For Joab and all Israel had stayed there six months, until he had killed every male in Edom. But Hadad fled to Egypt, along with some Edomites from his father’s servants. Hadad was a young boy at the time." (1 Kings 11:14-17)

Historical and Cultural Background

The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and had a longstanding enmity with Israel. During King David's reign, Edom was subjugated, and a significant military campaign led by Joab resulted in the decimation of the male population in Edom. This campaign is crucial for understanding the context in which Hadad's father's servants fled with the young Hadad to Egypt.

In the ancient Near Eastern context, servants of a royal household were often more than mere laborers; they could include trusted officials, military personnel, and advisors. The fact that Hadad's father's servants were able to escape with him suggests a level of loyalty and resourcefulness, indicating their possible roles as protectors or retainers of the royal family.

Role in Hadad's Rise

The escape to Egypt was a strategic move, as Egypt was a powerful nation and often a place of refuge for political exiles. The presence of Hadad in Egypt, under the protection of Pharaoh, allowed him to grow and eventually become a significant adversary to Solomon. The text notes that Hadad found favor with Pharaoh, who gave him a house, land, and even his sister-in-law in marriage (1 Kings 11:18-19).

The loyalty and actions of Hadad's father's servants were instrumental in preserving the Edomite royal line through Hadad. Their successful flight to Egypt ensured that Hadad could later return to Edom and challenge Solomon's rule, fulfilling the divine purpose of raising adversaries against Solomon due to his unfaithfulness.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the narrative of Hadad and his father's servants underscores the sovereignty of God in using historical and political events to fulfill His purposes. Despite Solomon's wisdom and power, his turning away from God led to the rise of adversaries, including Hadad, as a form of divine judgment. The loyalty and actions of Hadad's father's servants played a crucial role in this unfolding divine plan, highlighting themes of providence and the consequences of disobedience.

In summary, Hadad's father's servants are a testament to the intricate interplay of human agency and divine sovereignty in the biblical narrative. Their role in preserving Hadad and facilitating his rise as an adversary to Solomon is a significant element in the broader account of Israel's history and God's dealings with His people.