Solomon Anointed King

During the United Monarchy around 970 BC, King David had grown old, and his son Adonijah exalted himself, stating he would be king. Adonijah prepared chariots and horsemen, and he conferred with Joab and Abiathar the priest (1 Kings 1:5-7). Adonijah held a sacrificial feast by the stone of Zoheleth, inviting his brothers and the king's servants, but he did not invite Solomon, Nathan the prophet, or the mighty men. Nathan informed Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, of these events and advised her to speak to King David to save her life and the life of her son (1 Kings 1:11-12).

Bathsheba entered the king's chamber and reminded him of his oath that Solomon would reign after him. While she was speaking, Nathan entered and confirmed her report, asking if David had authorized Adonijah's kingship. The text does not say why David had not previously made his decision public. King David responded by swearing that Solomon would sit on his throne that day. He summoned Zadok the priest, Nathan, and Benaiah, commanding them to set Solomon on the king’s own mule and bring him down to Gihon (1 Kings 1:32-33).

At Gihon, Zadok the priest took a horn of oil from the tabernacle and anointed Solomon. The people blew the trumpet and shouted, 'God save king Solomon,' following him with pipes and great joy (1 Kings 1:39-40). Upon hearing the noise, Adonijah and his guests were informed by Jonathan the son of Abiathar that David had indeed made Solomon king. The text does not say how the guests physically reacted beyond their immediate departure in fear. Adonijah fled to the horns of the altar, seeking a promise from Solomon that he would not be put to the sword (1 Kings 1:50-51).