MPV Commentary

5-6. Adonijah, son of Haggith, began to assert himself as the rightful heir to the throne. Although David's fourth son (2 Samuel 3:4; 1 Chronicles 3:2), Adonijah was now the oldest living son and had gained popularity among the courtiers due to his charming personality and mannerisms (1 Samuel 9:2). His father, despite being aware of Adonijah's growing ambitions, remained silent, which many people, including Adonijah himself, interpreted as a sign of consent. The king's declining health prompted Adonijah to take bold action in pursuit of his goal.

7. He conspired with Joab, the seasoned military commander, who had recently harbored resentment towards the king (see 2 Samuel 19:13). It was natural for Adonijah to seek out Joab's influence, given his reputation and control over the army. Abiathar, the high priest, also joined Adonijah's cause, leveraging his authority over the priests and Levites, a powerful faction in the kingdom.

8. However, Zadok, another high priest, opposed Adonijah's claim to the throne. Zadok had previously served as high priest under Saul (1 Chronicles 16:39) and was appointed by David alongside Abiathar (2 Samuel 8:17; 15:24, 29, 35). It is likely that a rift had developed between them, leading each to support opposing factions. Benaiah, the brave captain of the king's bodyguard (2 Samuel 8:18; 20:23; 1 Chronicles 18:17), and Nathan, the respected prophet (2 Samuel 12:25), also opposed Adonijah.

9-10. Adonijah hosted a lavish feast at En-rogel, a well-known location east of Jerusalem (Joshua 15:7-10). This festive gathering was a common practice in ancient times, where leaders would entertain their guests with elaborate meals and festivities. However, it is probable that Adonijah's intentions were not purely celebratory but rather a calculated move to gain support for his claim to the throne.

11-27. Nathan, aware of God's will (2 Samuel 7:12; 1 Chronicles 22:9), took action to prevent Adonijah's usurpation. The succession of the Hebrew monarchy had not been clearly established, and it was known that God reserved the right of nomination for Himself (Deuteronomy 17:15). Nathan knew that David had promised Solomon the throne (2 Samuel 7:12) and that this promise was sanctioned by God. He feared that Adonijah's sudden rise to power would cause chaos in the kingdom, so he devised a plan to inform the king of the situation without alarming him.

20. The eyes of all Israel were upon David, expecting him to declare who should succeed him as king. In ancient times, kings often designated their successors before their death or at the time of their passing (1 Samuel 11:15).

21. Nathan and his son would be considered offenders, subject to execution according to Eastern custom.

28-31. King David responded by summoning Bath-sheba, reiterating the solemn pledge he had made to her regarding Solomon's succession in a manner that demonstrated his resolve and urgency in the face of Adonijah's rebellion.