Solomon
Son of David, anointed king of Israel at Gihon.
Solomon is a son of King David and Bathsheba, born in Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:14; 2 Samuel 12:24). He is designated by David as his successor to the throne of Israel, anointed king by Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet, and acclaimed by the people (1 Kings 1:30, 1 Kings 1:33-34, 1 Kings 1:39).
Quick Facts
- Born in jerusalem
- 2 Samuel 5:14
- Anointed king at gihon
- 1 Kings 1:38-39
- Sat on david's throne
- 1 Kings 1:46; 1 Kings 2:12
- Called 'solomon' by david
- 2 Samuel 12:24
Lore & Background
Solomon is first named among the children born to David in Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:14). His birth follows David's comfort of Bathsheba after their first child's death, and the Lord loved him (2 Samuel 12:24). Later, as David aged, Adonijah attempted to seize the throne without David's knowledge, prompting Nathan the prophet to warn Bathsheba that her and Solomon's lives were at risk (1 Kings 1:11-12). Bathsheba reminded David of his oath that Solomon would reign after him (1 Kings 1:13, 1 Kings 1:17). David then commanded that Solomon be taken to Gihon, ride the king's mule, and be anointed king by Zadok and Nathan (1 Kings 1:33-34). The people proclaimed, 'God save king Solomon' (1 Kings 1:39). After David's charge to Solomon (1 Kings 2:1), Solomon sat on the throne and his kingdom was established (1 Kings 2:12). Adonijah later sought to marry Abishag through Bathsheba's intercession, and Solomon received his mother with honor (1 Kings 2:13, 1 Kings 2:17, 1 Kings 2:19).
Reader's Guide
The passages portray Solomon as the divinely favored and legitimately anointed successor to David, in contrast to Adonijah's self-proclaimed reign. His kingship is established through David's explicit oath and public ceremony at Gihon, involving the priest, prophet, and royal guard (1 Kings 1:33-39). Solomon is shown as a figure of authority who grants mercy conditionally to Adonijah (1 Kings 1:52-53) and later receives his mother with deference (1 Kings 2:19). The narrative emphasizes that Solomon's throne was given by David's decree and divine favor, not by force, and that his rule was recognized by the people and the court (1 Kings 1:43, 1 Kings 1:46-47).
Elsewhere in Figures of Scripture
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