Adonijah, the fourth son of King David, sought to establish himself as king of Israel during the waning days of his father's reign. His ambition to ascend the throne was marked by a strategic gathering of influential supporters, which is documented in the biblical narrative found in 1 Kings 1. These supporters played a crucial role in his attempt to secure the kingship, although ultimately, his efforts were thwarted by the divine appointment of Solomon as David's successor.

Joab, Son of Zeruiah

Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was a prominent military leader and the commander of David's army. Known for his prowess in battle and his sometimes ruthless tactics, Joab had been a loyal servant to King David throughout his reign. However, in the matter of succession, Joab aligned himself with Adonijah. The Bible records, "But Joab son of Zeruiah and Abiathar the priest supported Adonijah" (1 Kings 1:7). Joab's support was significant due to his military influence and his longstanding position within David's administration.

Abiathar the Priest

Abiathar, a priest from the line of Eli, had served David faithfully during his years of hardship and reign. He was one of the two chief priests during David's kingship, sharing duties with Zadok. Despite his previous loyalty to David, Abiathar chose to support Adonijah's claim to the throne. This decision is noted in the same passage: "But Joab son of Zeruiah and Abiathar the priest supported Adonijah" (1 Kings 1:7). Abiathar's support lent religious legitimacy to Adonijah's cause, although it ultimately led to his downfall and removal from the priesthood under Solomon's rule (1 Kings 2:26-27).

Other Supporters

Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne was not without broader support. He hosted a sacrificial feast at the Stone of Zoheleth, near En Rogel, inviting "all his brothers, the king’s sons, and all the men of Judah, the king’s servants" (1 Kings 1:9). This gathering was a calculated move to consolidate his claim by rallying the support of key figures within the royal family and the tribe of Judah. However, it is important to note that not all of David's sons or key officials supported Adonijah. Notably absent from this gathering were Nathan the prophet, Benaiah, the mighty men, and Solomon himself (1 Kings 1:10).

The Role of Nathan and Bathsheba

While not supporters of Adonijah, Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, played pivotal roles in countering Adonijah's bid for the throne. Nathan, aware of the divine promise that Solomon would succeed David, informed Bathsheba of Adonijah's actions and advised her to appeal to King David. Bathsheba's intervention, along with Nathan's support, prompted David to publicly declare Solomon as his chosen successor, thereby undermining Adonijah's efforts (1 Kings 1:11-31).

Outcome

The support Adonijah garnered was ultimately insufficient to secure his claim to the throne. King David's decisive action in proclaiming Solomon as king, coupled with the loyalty of key figures like Nathan, Benaiah, and Zadok, ensured the fulfillment of God's promise regarding the Davidic line. Adonijah's supporters, particularly Joab and Abiathar, faced consequences for their allegiance to his cause, highlighting the importance of divine will and prophetic endorsement in the establishment of Israel's monarchy.