Topical Bible: Flattery by Adonijah

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Adonijah, the fourth son of King David, is a biblical figure whose actions are recorded in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Samuel. His account is a cautionary tale about ambition, manipulation, and the use of flattery to achieve personal goals.

Background and Context

Adonijah was born to David and Haggith, and he was the elder brother of Solomon. As David's health declined and his reign neared its end, Adonijah sought to position himself as the successor to the throne of Israel. His ambition was fueled by the fact that he was the eldest surviving son after the deaths of his brothers Amnon and Absalom.

Flattery and Manipulation

Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne is marked by strategic flattery and manipulation. In 1 Kings 1:5-10, Adonijah declared himself king without David's knowledge or blessing. He gathered chariots, horsemen, and fifty men to run ahead of him, presenting himself as a kingly figure. To solidify his claim, he sought the support of key figures in David's court, including Joab, the commander of the army, and Abiathar the priest. These alliances were likely secured through flattery and promises of power and position in his prospective reign.

Adonijah's actions can be seen as a form of flattery towards these influential leaders, appealing to their ambitions and desires for continued influence. By aligning himself with them, he attempted to legitimize his claim to the throne and create a sense of inevitability about his kingship.

Contrast with Solomon

Adonijah's use of flattery stands in stark contrast to the divine appointment of Solomon as king. While Adonijah relied on human manipulation and the flattery of powerful allies, Solomon's ascension was orchestrated by divine will and the prophetic word. In 1 Kings 1:11-40, the prophet Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, intervened to remind David of his promise that Solomon would succeed him. David then publicly declared Solomon as king, an act that was ratified by the anointing of Solomon by the priest Zadok and the prophet Nathan.

Consequences of Flattery

Adonijah's reliance on flattery and self-promotion ultimately led to his downfall. After Solomon was established as king, Adonijah's actions were seen as a direct threat to the divinely ordained order. In 1 Kings 1:50-53, Adonijah sought refuge at the altar, fearing retribution from Solomon. Although Solomon initially spared him, Adonijah's continued ambition and subsequent request to marry Abishag, David's former concubine, were perceived as another attempt to claim the throne. This led to his execution, as recorded in 1 Kings 2:13-25.

Biblical Perspective on Flattery

The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of flattery, which is often associated with deceit and manipulation. Proverbs 29:5 states, "A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet." Flattery is portrayed as a tool of the wicked, used to ensnare and deceive others for personal gain. Adonijah's account serves as a vivid illustration of these warnings, highlighting the futility and peril of relying on flattery to achieve one's ambitions.

In summary, Adonijah's use of flattery in his quest for power underscores the biblical theme that true leadership and authority come from God, not from human scheming or manipulation. His account is a reminder of the importance of humility, obedience to God's will, and the dangers inherent in seeking power through deceitful means.

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1 Kings 1:42
And while he yet spoke, behold, Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest came; and Adonijah said to him, Come in; for you are a valiant man, and bring good tidings.
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