Read 1 Kings 1.1-9. In 1.1-53: Solomon succeeds David. In verses 1-4: The choice of Abishag (v. 3) to serve David (v. 4) is a test of his virility. The fact that he did not know her sexually (v. 4) indicates that he is impotent and therefore no longer fit to be king. In verse 5: The knowledge of David's impotence spurs Adonijah to declare himself king. The chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him were trappings of kingship (2 Sam 15.1). As the next after Absalom, Adonijah was David's oldest living son (see 2 Sam 3.2-5; nothing is known about Chileab; and many scholars assume he died in infancy). Therefore he was by all rights the heir to the throne. In verses 7-8: The court is divided between those who support Adonijah for king (Joab and Abiathar, v. 7) and those who support Solomon (Zadok, Benaiah and Nathan, among others, v. 8). Since Adonijah was the rightful heir, it must be explained how Solomon came to succeed David. That is the topic of the rest of the chapter. In verses 9-10: Adonijah holds a sacrifice to celebrate his coronation. Such sacrifices were like banquets because the meat from the sacrificed animals was eaten. Adonijah recognized Solomon as his rival and did not invite him or those who supported him sacrifice. Comments or Questions..
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