Background and Context

Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is one of the most prominent figures in the Old Testament. His anointing as king marks a significant transition in the history of Israel, as it represents the continuation of the Davidic dynasty and the fulfillment of God's promises to David. The narrative of Solomon's anointing is primarily found in 1 Kings 1 and 1 Chronicles 28-29.

The Political Climate

The latter years of King David's reign were marked by political intrigue and familial strife. As David aged, questions about his successor became increasingly urgent. Adonijah, another son of David, sought to claim the throne for himself, declaring, "I will be king" (1 Kings 1:5). He garnered support from key figures such as Joab, the commander of the army, and Abiathar the priest. However, he did not have the support of Nathan the prophet, Benaiah, or the mighty men loyal to David, nor did he have the support of Solomon.

Nathan and Bathsheba's Intervention

Recognizing the threat posed by Adonijah's actions, Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, intervened. Nathan advised Bathsheba to remind David of his promise that Solomon would succeed him as king. Bathsheba approached David, saying, "My lord, you 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'" (1 Kings 1:17). Nathan confirmed her words, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

David's Response

King David, reaffirming his commitment to God's will and his promise to Bathsheba, took decisive action. He instructed Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada to anoint Solomon as king over Israel. David commanded, "Take with you the servants of your lord, have my son Solomon mount my own mule, and take him down to Gihon. There Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet are to anoint him king over Israel" (1 Kings 1:33-34).

The Anointing Ceremony

The anointing of Solomon was a public and divinely sanctioned event. Solomon rode on King David's mule, a symbol of royal authority, to the spring of Gihon. There, Zadok the priest took the horn of oil from the tabernacle and anointed Solomon. The people rejoiced, playing flutes and shouting, "Long live King Solomon!" (1 Kings 1:39). The sound of celebration was so great that it shook the ground.

Adonijah's Reaction

The news of Solomon's anointing quickly reached Adonijah and his supporters, who were feasting at the time. Fearing retribution, Adonijah sought refuge by taking hold of the horns of the altar, a place of asylum. Solomon, demonstrating wisdom and mercy, spared Adonijah's life on the condition of his future loyalty, saying, "If he is found worthy, not a hair of his head will fall to the ground; but if evil is found in him, he will die" (1 Kings 1:52).

Significance

Solomon's anointing as king is a pivotal moment in biblical history. It underscores the themes of divine providence, the legitimacy of the Davidic line, and the importance of adhering to God's chosen leadership. Solomon's reign would later be characterized by wisdom, prosperity, and the building of the Temple in Jerusalem, further solidifying his role as a key figure in the unfolding narrative of God's covenant with Israel.