Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is a central figure in the history of Israel, known for his wisdom, wealth, and the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. His anointing and enthronement as king are pivotal events that mark the transition of leadership from David to Solomon, ensuring the continuation of the Davidic line as promised by God.

Background and Context

The narrative of Solomon's anointing and enthronement is primarily found in 1 Kings 1-2 and 1 Chronicles 28-29. As King David aged, the question of succession became pressing. Although David had other sons, including Adonijah, who was the natural heir by birth order, God had chosen Solomon to succeed David. This divine choice was communicated to David, who promised Bathsheba that Solomon would be king (1 Kings 1:13).

Adonijah's Attempt to Seize the Throne

Before Solomon's anointing, Adonijah, David's son by Haggith, attempted to claim the throne for himself. He gathered support from key figures, including Joab, the commander of the army, and Abiathar the priest (1 Kings 1:5-7). Adonijah's self-exaltation was a direct challenge to God's plan and David's intentions.

Nathan and Bathsheba's Intervention

The prophet Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, played crucial roles in ensuring Solomon's rightful succession. Nathan informed Bathsheba of Adonijah's actions and advised her to remind David of his promise regarding Solomon (1 Kings 1:11-14). Bathsheba approached David, and Nathan confirmed her words, prompting David to take immediate action to secure Solomon's kingship.

Solomon's Anointing

David ordered that Solomon be anointed as king without delay. He instructed Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada to take Solomon to Gihon, where he would be anointed (1 Kings 1:32-34). The anointing was a public declaration of Solomon's divine appointment and David's endorsement. "So Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada, along with the Kerethites and Pelethites, went down and had Solomon mount King David’s mule, and they escorted him to Gihon" (1 Kings 1:38).

Zadok took the horn of oil from the sacred tent and anointed Solomon. The people rejoiced, and the sound of their celebration was so loud that it shook the ground (1 Kings 1:39-40). This public acclamation was a powerful affirmation of Solomon's kingship.

Solomon's Enthronement

Following his anointing, Solomon ascended the throne of his father David. David's blessing and the people's acceptance solidified his position as king. David charged Solomon to walk in obedience to God, emphasizing the importance of following God's statutes and commands (1 Kings 2:1-4).

David's final instructions to Solomon included dealing with unfinished matters of justice and loyalty, ensuring a stable and righteous reign. Solomon's enthronement marked the beginning of a new era for Israel, characterized by peace and prosperity.

Significance

Solomon's anointing and enthronement are significant for several reasons. They demonstrate God's sovereign choice and the fulfillment of His promises to David. The events underscore the importance of divine guidance and prophetic intervention in the leadership of Israel. Solomon's reign, initiated by this anointing, would become a golden age for Israel, with the construction of the Temple and the expansion of the kingdom's influence.

The anointing of Solomon also prefigures the anointing of Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic covenant, who reigns eternally as King. Solomon's wisdom and reign, though imperfect, point to the perfect wisdom and eternal reign of Jesus Christ.