MPV Commentary

Solomon, by David's Appointment, Is Anointed King.

33. Directions were immediately given for Solomon's coronation. A procession was to be formed by the king's bodyguard, with mules provided for all the princes. However, there was a state mule reserved exclusively for the king, and its use by anyone else was punishable by death. By granting this privilege to Solomon, David publicly declared his favor as the future king.

34. The coronation procession would proceed from Jerusalem to Gihon, a public fountain on the west side of the city. This location was chosen for its visibility and accessibility.

35. Once they arrived at Gihon, the people were to anoint Solomon with sacred oil taken from the tabernacle. This practice was reserved for the inauguration of new dynasties or in cases of disputed succession.

36-37. The public recognition of a successor during the old king's lifetime was a common custom in the East.

39. The sacred oil used for the anointing ceremony was extracted according to the instructions given in Exodus 30:25.

40. As the people followed Solomon from Gihon back to Zion, they publicly acknowledged his new status as king.

41-49. Meanwhile, Adonijah and his guests heard the news of Solomon's coronation as they finished their meal. The loud cheers and shouts raised by the crowd at Gihon were easily audible from a distance, and soon a messenger arrived with details of the ceremony. This news spread panic among Adonijah's followers, who quickly dispersed in search of safety.