Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, ascended to the throne of Israel in a period marked by political intrigue and divine intervention. His accession is a pivotal event in the biblical narrative, illustrating the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of a kingdom characterized by wisdom and prosperity.

Background and Context

Solomon's path to kingship was not without challenges. As David's reign neared its end, the question of succession became pressing. Although Solomon was not David's eldest son, he was chosen by God to succeed his father. This divine selection is rooted in the covenantal promises made to David, as recorded in 2 Samuel 7:12-13 : "When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. He will build a house for My Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever."

Adonijah's Attempted Usurpation

Before Solomon's accession, Adonijah, another son of David, attempted to claim the throne. Adonijah's actions are detailed in 1 Kings 1:5 : "At that time Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith, exalted himself, saying, 'I will be king.' So he prepared chariots, cavalry, and fifty men to run ahead of him." Adonijah's self-exaltation and premature claim to kingship posed a significant threat to Solomon's rightful succession.

Nathan and Bathsheba's Intervention

The prophet Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, played crucial roles in ensuring Solomon's accession. Recognizing the threat posed by Adonijah, Nathan approached Bathsheba, urging her to remind King David of his promise regarding Solomon's kingship. Bathsheba's appeal to David is recorded in 1 Kings 1:17 : "My lord, you yourself swore to your maidservant by the LORD your God: 'Surely your son Solomon shall be king after me, and he shall sit on my throne.'"

David's Declaration and Solomon's Anointing

In response to Bathsheba and Nathan's intervention, David reaffirmed his commitment to Solomon's kingship. He instructed Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada to anoint Solomon as king. This event is described in 1 Kings 1:39 : "Zadok the priest took the horn of oil from the tabernacle and anointed Solomon. Then they blew the trumpet, and all the people proclaimed, 'Long live King Solomon!'"

Solomon's Establishment as King

Following his anointing, Solomon's position as king was solidified. Adonijah's supporters dispersed, and Solomon extended mercy to his brother, provided he proved himself worthy. Solomon's accession marked the beginning of a reign characterized by wisdom, wealth, and the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling the divine mandate given to David.

Divine Wisdom and Solomon's Reign

Solomon's reign is distinguished by his request for wisdom, which he made at Gibeon. In 1 Kings 3:9 , Solomon prays, "Give Your servant, therefore, an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?" God granted Solomon unparalleled wisdom, as well as riches and honor, establishing him as a model of wise and just leadership.

Solomon's accession to the throne is a testament to God's sovereign will and the fulfillment of His promises. His reign set the stage for a period of unprecedented peace and prosperity in Israel, reflecting the divine favor bestowed upon him.