Adonijah Attempts to Seize the Throne
1 Kings 1:1-27
1 K.1.1 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והמלך: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- דוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- זקן: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- בא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בימים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ויכסהו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בבגדים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ולא: CONJ
- יחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 23:1 (verbal): Chronicles uses the formula that David was "old and full of days," echoing the language about David's infirmity and introducing the transfer of power to his son.
- 1 Chronicles 29:1 (structural): A parallel account of David's last days and his preparations for Solomon's succession; Chronicles retells the same situation of an aged David organizing the transition.
- 1 Kings 2:1 (structural): Immediate literary continuation in the Deuteronomistic history: the narrative moves from David's old age in ch.1 to the imminent end of his life and his final charge to Solomon in ch.2.
- Psalm 71:9 (thematic): A poetic reflection on vulnerability in old age—"do not cast me off in the time of old age"—which thematically parallels the depiction of the aged, weakened David who needs to be kept warm and cared for.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now King David was old, advanced in days; they covered him with garments, but he could not keep warm.
- Now King David was old, advanced in days; he covered himself with garments, but he could not keep warm.
1 K.1.2 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- עבדיו: NOUN,m,pl,abs+3ms
- יבקשו: VERB,qal,imf,3,m,pl
- לאדני: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,m,poss1s
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- נערה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בתולה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ועמדה: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,f,sg
- לפני: PREP
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ותהי: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- סכנת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ושכבה: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,f,sg
- בחיקך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,suff2m
- וחם: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,f,sg
- לאדני: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,m,poss1s
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Kgs 1:4 (structural): Immediate parallel within the same narrative — explains the result of the servants’ suggestion: a young virgin (Abishag the Shunammite) is sought and attended to the king.
- 2 Sam 11:2-5 (thematic): David’s sexual encounter with Bathsheba: another episode where a king engages with a young woman who comes to him, highlighting themes of royal sexual access and vulnerability.
- 2 Sam 12:8 (allusion): Nathan’s rebuke to David speaks of giving a man his master’s house and wives into his bosom — echoes the idea of women placed in the king’s bed and the political/sexual implications of royal intimacy.
- Gen 24:16-67 (verbal): Eliezer’s search and selection of a young virgin (Rebekah) as a bride for Isaac parallels the formulaic language and social practice of seeking a virgin to serve and lie with a patriarchal lord.
- Prov 7:6-23 (thematic): Depicts the deliberate placement of a woman to seduce and ensnare a man — resonates thematically with the use of a young woman’s body and proximity to influence a powerful man’s actions.
Alternative generated candidates
- And his servants said to him, 'Let them seek for my lord the king a young virgin; let her stand before the king, attend him, lie in your bosom, and be a source of warmth for my lord the king.'
- And his servants said to him, “Let a young virgin be sought for my lord the king, and let her stand before the king and attend him; let her be a provider for the king and lie in his bosom, that my lord the king may be warm.”
1 K.1.3 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויבקשו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- נערה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- יפה: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- בכל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- גבול: NOUN,m,sg,cs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וימצאו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- אבישג: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- השונמית: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- למלך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:4 (verbal): Immediate continuation: the verse that follows identifies Abishag by name and describes her role as David’s attendant/nurse, completing the action introduced in 1:3.
- 1 Kings 2:13-25 (thematic): Later narrative significance: Adonijah’s request for Abishag as a wife/beard becomes a political pretext for Solomon to order Adonijah’s execution, showing the political implications of Abishag’s position.
- Esther 2:2-4 (verbal): Parallel procedure: royal households searching for attractive young women to bring into the king’s service/household; similar language and social practice of selecting attendants for a monarch.
- 2 Kings 4:8-17 (allusion): Shared epithet: another well‑known ‘Shunammite’ woman appears in Elisha’s stories; while a different person, the common geographic designation (Shunammite) evokes regional identity and literary echoes.
Alternative generated candidates
- So they searched throughout all the territory of Israel for a beautiful young woman, and they found Abishag the Shunammite; and they brought her to the king.
- So they sought for a fair young woman throughout all the territory of Israel; and they found Abishag the Shunammite, and brought her to the king.
1 K.1.4 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והנערה: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,def
- יפה: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- עד: PREP
- מאד: ADV
- ותהי: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- למלך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- סכנת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ותשרתהו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,f,sg+PRON,3,m,sg
- והמלך: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- לא: PART_NEG
- ידעה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
Parallels
- 1 Kgs 1:3 (structural): Immediate context: the servants seek 'a young virgin' to attend the king — the very request that brings Abishag and leads into v.4's description.
- 1 Kgs 2:13-22 (thematic): Later episode in which Adonijah's request for Abishag becomes a political charge against him; continues and reinterprets her role as the king's attendant.
- Gen 24:16 (verbal): Rebekah is described as 'very fair' and serves as a maiden in a household — verbal and thematic similarity in portraying exceptional beauty and maiden-servant status.
- 2 Sam 12:24-25 (thematic): Bathsheba is comforted by David and bears him a son — contrasts with Abishag, whom the text explicitly says 'the king knew not,' highlighting different kinds of relationships between David and prominent women.
- 1 Sam 25:42-43 (thematic): Abigail, described as beautiful and prudent, becomes David's wife after serving him; parallels the motif of a beautiful woman associated with David's household and protection.
Alternative generated candidates
- The young woman was very beautiful; she became a servant to the king and ministered to him, but the king knew her not.
- The young woman was very beautiful; she ministered to the king and attended him, but the king knew her not.
1 K.1.5 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ואדניה: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חגית: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מתנשא: VERB,hitp,ptcp,3,m,sg
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- אני: PRON,1,sg
- אמלך: VERB,qal,impf,1,m,sg
- ויעש: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- רכב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ופרשים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- וחמשים: CONJ+NUM,card,pl,m
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רצים: VERB,qal,ptcp,3,m,pl
- לפניו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 2 Samuel 15:1-6 (verbal): Absalom’s self-exaltation uses nearly identical language and imagery—he makes himself a reputation, prepares chariots and horses, and sets fifty men to run before him (a close verbal and narrative parallel to Adonijah’s bid for the throne).
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (structural): The contrasting account in the same chapter where Solomon is anointed king (by Zadok, Nathan, and others) provides a structural parallel and counterpoint to Adonijah’s attempt to seize the throne.
- 1 Chronicles 29:22-25 (structural): The parallel Chronicles account records the public anointing and establishment of Solomon as king, corroborating and expanding the outcome that counters Adonijah’s usurpation (structural parallel to 1 Kgs 1).
- Psalm 2 (thematic): Psalm 2 thematically frames rebellions against God’s anointed king: earthly pretenders plot in vain while God installs his chosen ruler—this provides theological background to episodes of usurpation like Adonijah’s and Absalom’s.
Alternative generated candidates
- Adonijah son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, 'I will be king.' He prepared for himself a chariot and horsemen, and fifty men who ran before him.
- Now Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, “I will be king”; and he prepared for himself chariots and horsemen and fifty men running before him.
1 K.1.6 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ולא: CONJ
- עצבו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- אביו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- מימיו: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs,3ms
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- מדוע: ADV
- ככה: ADV
- עשית: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- וגם: CONJ
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- תאר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מאד: ADV
- ואתו: CONJ+PRON,3,m,sg
- ילדה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- אחרי: PREP
- אבשלום: NOUN,m,sg,abs,prop
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:7 (verbal): Repeats the observation that David 'had not displeased him at any time' and links Adonijah's advantage to his youth and the absence of paternal rebuke.
- 2 Samuel 14:25-27 (allusion): Describes Absalom's celebrated handsomeness ('none so highly praised for his beauty'), providing the background for the comparison 'born after Absalom' and the association with physical attractiveness.
- Proverbs 13:24 (thematic): Speaks to parental discipline ('He who spares the rod hates his son'); thematically contrasts the expected reproof of a son with David's failure to rebuke Adonijah.
- 1 Chronicles 3:1-4 (structural): Genealogical listing of David's sons (including Absalom and Adonijah), corroborating the phrase 'his mother bare him after Absalom' as a statement of birth order.
Alternative generated candidates
- And his father had not at any time rebuked him, saying, 'Why have you done so?' He was also very handsome in appearance, and his mother had borne him after Absalom.
- His father had not at any time rebuked him by saying, “Why have you done so?” He was also a very handsome man, and he was born after Absalom.
1 K.1.7 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהיו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- דבריו: NOUN,m,pl,abs+3m
- עם: PREP
- יואב: NOUN,prop,m,sg
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- צרויה: NOUN,prop,f,sg
- ועם: CONJ+PREP
- אביתר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הכהן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויעזרו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אחרי: PREP
- אדניה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:8 (structural): Immediate narrative contrast listing those who supported Solomon (Zadok, Nathan, Benaiah, the army) against Adonijah’s supporters Joab and Abiathar.
- 1 Kings 2:26-27 (structural): Solomon’s punishment of Abiathar (removal from the priesthood and banishment) directly results from Abiathar’s support for Adonijah.
- 1 Kings 2:31-34 (structural): Joab is executed on Solomon’s orders because he had supported Adonijah, showing the political consequences of backing the rival.
- 1 Samuel 22:20-23 (allusion): Earlier episode where Abiathar the priest escapes to David and serves him—contrasts Abiathar’s prior loyalty to David with his later support for Adonijah.
- 2 Samuel 15:1-6 (thematic): Absalom’s conspiracy illustrates a parallel pattern: a royal son gathers military and political supporters (counselors, commanders, priests) to press a claim to the throne, similar to Adonijah’s action.
Alternative generated candidates
- His supporters were Joab son of Zeruiah and Abiathar the priest; they helped Adonijah.
- And his supporters were Joab the son of Zeruiah and Abiathar the priest; they helped him.
1 K.1.8 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- וצדוק: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הכהן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ובניהו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוידע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ונתן: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- הנביא: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ושמעי: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ורעי: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- והגבורים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- לדוד: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- היו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- עם: PREP
- אדניהו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kgs 1:5 (thematic): Contrasts Adonijah’s own supporters (chariots, horsemen, and followers) with those loyal to David who were not with Adonijah.
- 1 Kgs 1:32-40 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: Zadok, Nathan, and Benaiah appear to anoint Solomon—showing these same leaders were aligned against Adonijah’s claim.
- 1 Chr 11:10-47 (verbal): Catalogue of David’s ‘mighty men’ (parallel to the phrase “the mighty men that belonged to David”), listing many of the same warriors and emphasizing their importance to David’s household.
- 1 Kgs 2:13-25 (thematic): Later episodes in Solomon’s accession and consolidation where Zadok and Benaiah act on Solomon’s behalf, illustrating the continued loyalty of those who were not with Adonijah.
Alternative generated candidates
- But Zadok the priest, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada, and the prophet Nathan, and Shimei and Reaiah, and the mighty men who belonged to David were not with Adonijah.
- But Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and Nathan the prophet, and Shimei, and Rei, and the mighty men who belonged to David were not with Adonijah.
1 K.1.9 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויזבח: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- אדניהו: NOUN,prop,m,sg
- צאן: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ובקר: CONJ,NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ומריא: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- עם: PREP
- אבן: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הזחלת: NOUN,prop,f,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אצל: PREP
- עין: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- רגל: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ויקרא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- כל: DET
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ולכל: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אנשי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- עבדי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:5 (structural): Earlier in the same narrative Adonijah 'exalts himself' and gathers supporters—this verse (1:9) describes the feast he holds as part of that bid for the throne.
- 1 Kings 1:39-40 (structural): Solomon's anointing and the ensuing public celebration provide a direct contrast to Adonijah's private sacrificial feast, highlighting competing claims and legitimate installation.
- 1 Chronicles 29:22-23 (thematic): The formal installation of Solomon with anointing and a great feast parallels the pattern of royal succession rituals and contrasts with Adonijah's unofficial gathering.
- 2 Samuel 15:10-13 (thematic): Absalom's secret plotting and move to set himself up as king in Hebron echoes the pattern of a royal son rallying support and arranging events to advance a claim to the throne.
- 1 Kings 2:13-25 (structural): The later episode in which Adonijah makes requests and is executed shows the consequences of his earlier bid (including the feast in 1:9) and completes the narrative arc.
Alternative generated candidates
- Adonijah sacrificed sheep, oxen, and fatlings by the stone of Zoheleth which is by the spring of Rogel, and he called all his brothers, the king's sons, and all the men of Judah, the king's servants.
- Adonijah sacrificed sheep, oxen, and fatlings by the stone of Zoheleth that is near En-rogel, and called all his brothers, the king’s sons, and all the men of Judah, the king’s servants.
1 K.1.10 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ואת: CONJ
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הנביא: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ובניהו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- הגבורים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ואת: CONJ
- שלמה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- קרא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:11 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: Nathan the prophet, who Adonijah did not call here, is next shown being summoned by Bathsheba and taking action to secure Solomon’s kingship.
- 1 Kings 1:26 (verbal): Parallel contrast in wording: this verse describes whom Adonijah did summon (his brothers and the men of Judah), highlighting by contrast the specific important figures he omitted in 1:10.
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (thematic): Description of Solomon’s anointing supported by Nathan, Benaiah and the king’s mighty men—directly contrasts with 1:10’s note that Adonijah did not call these legitimate supporters.
- 1 Chronicles 29:22-25 (allusion): Chronicles’ account of Solomon’s accession likewise emphasizes the role of Benaiah, Zadok and the king’s officers in establishing Solomon, offering a parallel version of the exclusion and subsequent legitimation implied in 1 Kings 1:10.
Alternative generated candidates
- But he did not call Nathan the prophet, nor Benaiah, nor the mighty men, nor Solomon his brother.
- But he did not call Nathan the prophet, nor Benaiah, nor the mighty men, nor Solomon his brother.
1 K.1.11 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- בת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- שבע: NUM,card
- אם: CONJ
- שלמה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- הלוא: PART
- שמעת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- מלך: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- אדניהו: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חגית: NOUN,prop,f,sg,abs
- ואדנינו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,pre:W,suf:1pl
- דוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- ידע: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:5 (verbal): Describes Adonijah's self-exaltation and gathering of supporters — the immediate narrative background to Nathan's report that Adonijah has acted as if king.
- 1 Kings 1:14-16 (structural): Continues the scene where Bathsheba is sent to David and Nathan gives the explicit instructions that follow verse 11; shows the joint strategy to counter Adonijah's move.
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (thematic): Records Solomon's anointing and public proclamation as king — the decisive response to Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne mentioned in 1:11.
- 2 Samuel 3:8-11 (thematic): A parallel episode of rival kingship during David's rise: Abner sets up Ish-bosheth as king, illustrating the recurring theme of contested succession and political maneuvering in Davidic history.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then Nathan said to Bathsheba, mother of Solomon, 'Have you not heard that Adonijah son of Haggith is king? And our lord David knows nothing of it.'
- Then Nathan said to Bathsheba, “Have you not heard that Adonijah the son of Haggith has become king, and our lord the king knows it not?
1 K.1.12 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ועתה: CONJ
- לכי: VERB,qal,impv,2,f,sg
- איעצך: VERB,qal,impf,1,_,sg
- נא: PART
- עצה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומלטי: VERB,qal,imp,2,f,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- נפשך: NOUN,f,sg,abs,2,m
- ואת: CONJ
- נפש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בנך: NOUN,m,sg,cstr+poss,2,m,sg
- שלמה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:11 (structural): Immediate narrative pair: Nathan's instruction to Bathsheba to go in to David; same counsel and episode leading to Solomon's preservation.
- Genesis 27:8–10 (thematic): Rebekah urges Jacob to follow her plan to obtain Isaac's blessing—mother's counsel enacted to secure a son's future/succession.
- Esther 4:14–16 (thematic): Mordecai urges Esther to risk approaching the king to save lives—advice to intercede with the ruler in order to preserve life and destiny.
- 1 Samuel 19:2–3 (thematic): Jonathan warns and helps David escape Saul's plot—an ally's counsel and intervention to save the life of a threatened heir/leader.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now therefore, go, I will counsel you a plan; save your life and the life of your son Solomon.
- Now therefore come, let me advise you, that I may preserve your life and the life of your son Solomon.
1 K.1.13 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- לכי: VERB,qal,impv,2,f,sg
- ובאי: VERB,qal,impv,2,f,sg
- אל: NEG
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- דוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואמרת: CONJ+VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- הלא: PART
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- נשבעת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- לאמתך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- כי: CONJ
- שלמה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- בנך: NOUN,m,sg,cstr+poss,2,m,sg
- ימלך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אחרי: PREP
- והוא: CONJ+PRON,3,m,sg
- ישב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- כסאי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,1,sg
- ומדוע: CONJ+ADV
- מלך: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- אדניהו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 2 Samuel 7:12-16 (thematic): God's promise that a son of David will succeed and establish an enduring dynasty — background covenantal basis for Solomon's succession.
- 1 Chronicles 22:6-10 (verbal): David explicitly charges Solomon as his appointed successor and rehearses God's choice, echoing the claim that Solomon should sit on David's throne.
- 1 Chronicles 28:4-7 (verbal): David states that the LORD chose Solomon to be ruler after him, providing a parallel affirmation of Solomon's divine appointment against Adonijah's claim.
- Psalm 89:3-4,29-37 (thematic): Poetic reflection on God's covenant with David that his offspring and throne will endure — theological underpinning for opposition to Adonijah.
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (structural): Immediate narrative fulfilment: Solomon is anointed and proclaimed king, directly resolving the succession question raised in v.13.
Alternative generated candidates
- Go in and appear before King David, and say to him, "Did you not, my lord the king, swear to your servant by the LORD your God, saying, 'Surely Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne' ?"
- Go, and you shall enter in to the king’s chamber; and you shall say, ‘My lord the king, you swore to your maid by the LORD your God, saying, “Surely Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne”; why then does Adonijah reign?’”
1 K.1.14 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- הנה: PART
- עודך: ADV+2,m,sg
- מדברת: VERB,qal,part,3,f,sg
- שם: ADV
- עם: PREP
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ואני: PRON,1,sg
- אבוא: VERB,qal,impf,1,NA,sg
- אחריך: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,m
- ומלאתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- דבריך: NOUN,m,pl,abs+2ms
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:15 (structural): Immediate parallel in the same episode: Nathan instructs Bathsheba to go in to the king and she responds that she will go and carry out his counsel — same setting and speech-act (going to the king to speak).
- 1 Kings 2:13-20 (thematic): Bathsheba later personally petitions Solomon on behalf of Adonijah; parallels the motif of a royal woman approaching the king to intercede and influence succession/justice in the palace.
- Esther 5:1-4 (thematic): Esther’s bold approach to the king to plead for her people parallels the motif of a woman entering the royal presence to deliver a petition and secure the ruler’s favor.
- 1 Samuel 25:18-35 (thematic): Abigail’s swift intervention and personal approach to David to avert disaster echoes the theme of a woman acting as intermediary before a king/leader to influence judgment and enact a requested outcome.
- 2 Samuel 12:1-7 (structural): Nathan’s role in confronting David and delivering a decisive message in the royal court parallels the function of advisers/agents who bring sensitive petitions or revelations before a king in the narrative context.
Alternative generated candidates
- While you are still speaking there with the king, I will come after you and confirm your words.
- Behold, while you are yet speaking with the king I will come after you and confirm your words.
1 K.1.15 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותבא: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- בת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- שבע: NUM,card
- אל: NEG
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- החדרה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- והמלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- זקן: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- מאד: ADV
- ואבישג: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- השונמית: NOUN,f,sg,def
- משרת: NOUN,m,sg,cstr
- את: PRT,acc
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Kgs 1:4 (verbal): Same episode introducing Abishag the Shunammite who 'ministered unto the king'—paralleling the wording and the motif of David’s advanced age and his need for attendants.
- 1 Kgs 1:17 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: Bathsheba speaks to David in the king’s chamber to secure Solomon’s succession; this follows directly after her entrance described in 1:15.
- 1 Kgs 2:13-21 (thematic): Later political use of Abishag: Adonijah asks Bathsheba to request Abishag as his wife, exploiting her connection to David as a claim to status/power—shows the political significance of Abishag’s service to the king.
- 2 Sam 12:24-25 (allusion): Background on Bathsheba and Solomon: reports Solomon’s birth to Bathsheba and David’s consolation—provides key context for Bathsheba’s central role in the succession narrative referenced in 1 Kgs 1:15.
Alternative generated candidates
- So Bathsheba went into the king's chamber. The king was very old, and Abishag the Shunammite ministered to the king.
- So Bathsheba went into the king’s chamber; and the king was very old, and Abishag the Shunammite was ministering to the king.
1 K.1.16 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותקד: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- בת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- שבע: NUM,card
- ותשתחו: VERB,hitpael,wayyiqtol,3,f,sg
- למלך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מה: PRON,int
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
Parallels
- Esther 5:2-3 (verbal): Esther approaches the king and bows; the king asks her what she desires—close verbal and functional parallel to the king’s question to Bathsheba ('What is thy wish?').
- 1Kgs 2:19 (structural): Bathsheba again comes before the king (now Solomon) and is received at court; similar scene of the king’s mother presenting a petition and the royal audience protocol.
- 1Sam 25:24-31 (thematic): Abigail falls and bows before David to make a petition on behalf of her household—same motif of a supplicant bowing before the king and pleading for mercy/protection.
- 2Sam 9:6 (thematic): Mephibosheth falls on his face and bows before King David seeking favor—another instance of a bowed petitioner before the monarch and the king’s ensuing response.
Alternative generated candidates
- Bathsheba bowed and did obeisance to the king. The king said, 'What do you want?'
- And she bowed herself, and did obeisance to the king; and the king said, “What do you desire?”
1 K.1.17 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- נשבעת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- ביהוה: PREP+PN,sg
- אלהיך: NOUN,m,sg,prsuf-2ms
- לאמתך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- שלמה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- בנך: NOUN,m,sg,cstr+poss,2,m,sg
- ימלך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אחרי: PREP
- והוא: CONJ+PRON,3,m,sg
- ישב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- כסאי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+1cs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:30 (quotation): David's immediate response — he takes the oath Bathsheba requests, promising that Solomon shall sit on his throne (direct continuation of the same episode).
- 1 Chronicles 29:22-23 (structural): Parallel narrative showing the formal anointing and ascent of Solomon to the throne after David's reign, completing the succession Bathsheba seeks to secure.
- 2 Samuel 7:12-13 (thematic): God's promise that David's offspring will build a house and that his throne will be established — theological background for Solomon's kingship and the royal succession Bathsheba invokes.
- 1 Chronicles 28:5-6 (allusion): David's public designation of Solomon as chosen by the LORD to be ruler, reflecting the divine choice behind the human act of securing Solomon's throne.
- 2 Samuel 12:24-25 (thematic): Announcement of Solomon's birth (called Jedidiah) and God's favor toward him — the origin narrative that underlies efforts to ensure Solomon's succession.
Alternative generated candidates
- She answered, 'My lord, you swore by the LORD your God to your servant, saying, "Surely Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne."'
- She said, “My lord, you swore to your maid by the LORD your God, saying, ‘Surely Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne.’”
1 K.1.18 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ועתה: CONJ
- הנה: PART
- אדניה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מלך: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- ועתה: CONJ
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לא: PART_NEG
- ידעת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:5 (verbal): Describes Adonijah's self-exaltation and effective proclamation as king (he 'made himself king'), the event Bathsheba reports in 1:18.
- 1 Kings 1:19-27 (thematic): Bathsheba and Nathan's immediate consultation and their plan to inform David — the direct narrative response to Bathsheba's report that 'my lord the king does not know.'
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (structural): The public anointing of Solomon by Zadok and Nathan to counter Adonijah's claim and secure the succession — the concrete resolution to the situation described in 1:18.
- 1 Kings 2:13-25 (thematic): The later incident in which Adonijah requests Abishag and is executed by Solomon — the fatal aftermath of Adonijah's earlier bid for the throne.
Alternative generated candidates
- And now—behold—Adonijah is king, and my lord the king does not know it.
- And now behold, Adonijah is king; and now, my lord the king, you do not know it.
1 K.1.19 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויזבח: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- שור: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומריא: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וצאן: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לרב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויקרא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- לכל: PREP
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ולאביתר: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- הכהן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וליאב: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- שר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הצבא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולשלמה: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- עבדך: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,ms
- לא: PART_NEG
- קרא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:5-10 (structural): Immediate context: earlier verses describe Adonijah exalting himself and gathering supporters—same episode that explains why he sacrificed and called the king’s sons and officials.
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (structural): Contrast episode: Solomon is anointed and proclaimed king with a public sacrificial celebration and the sounding of trumpets, showing the legitimate installation that Adonijah attempted to preempt.
- 1 Chronicles 29:22-24 (structural): Parallel account of Solomon’s accession: public proclamation, sacrifices, and rejoicing accompany Solomon’s installation, echoing and legitimizing the sacrificial/ceremonial elements in 1 Kgs 1.
- 1 Samuel 11:14-15 (thematic): An earlier instance where a king is publicly confirmed with a communal celebration and offerings at Gilgal; parallels the use of sacrifice/feasting as part of royal legitimation.
- 2 Samuel 15:1-12 (thematic): Absalom’s gathering of followers and bid for the throne (a rival claimant assembling supporters) parallels Adonijah’s move to secure power by summoning princes and commanders.
Alternative generated candidates
- He has sacrificed oxen, fatlings, and sheep for a great company, and he has called all the king's sons, and Abiathar the priest, and Joab the commander of the army; but he did not call Solomon your servant.
- He has sacrificed oxen, fatlings, and sheep for a great company, and has called all the king’s sons and Abiathar the priest and Joab the captain of the army; but he has not called Solomon your servant.
1 K.1.20 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ואתה: CONJ+PRON,2,m,sg
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- עיני: NOUN,f,pl,cons+1s
- כל: DET
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עליך: PREP+2ms
- להגיד: INF,hiph
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- ישב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- כסא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אחריו: PREP,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (structural): Direct continuation of the same episode: David publicly endorses and anoints Solomon as successor, fulfilling the demand that Israel be told who will sit on the king's throne.
- 1 Chronicles 29:22-23 (thematic): Summarizes Solomon’s enthronement after David’s death — a parallel account emphasizing the transition of kingship and the establishment of Solomon on the throne of the LORD.
- 2 Samuel 5:1-3 (thematic): The elders of Israel come to Hebron to make David king over Israel and Judah — a precedent for national attention and elder involvement in recognizing and installing a king.
- Deuteronomy 17:14-15 (allusion): Legal provision for Israel to appoint a king from among their brothers — the canonical background for concerns about rightful succession and who should sit on the king’s throne.
- 1 Samuel 8:4-20 (thematic): Israel’s demand for a human king and the attendant procedure and expectations about kingship — thematically related to public concern over royal leadership and the selection of a king.
Alternative generated candidates
- Yet now, my lord the king, the eyes of all Israel are upon you; you must tell them who shall sit on my lord the king's throne after him.
- And you, my lord the king— the eyes of all Israel are upon you— tell them who shall sit on my lord the king’s throne after him.
1 K.1.21 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והיה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- כשכב: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- עם: PREP
- אבתיו: NOUN,m,pl,abs,3s
- והייתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,m,sg
- אני: PRON,1,sg
- ובני: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- שלמה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- חטאים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 2:10 (verbal): Uses the same formula “slept with his fathers” to mark the death of a king (David’s death); a common OT death-formula echoed here.
- 1 Kings 1:5-10 (thematic): Earlier description of Adonijah’s self-exaltation and attempt to secure the throne—gives context for his claim that he and Solomon would be guilty if David does not act.
- 1 Kings 1:38-40 (structural): Contrasts Adonijah’s move by recording Solomon’s anointing by Zadok and the people—shows the competing claims and the legitimate succession enacted.
- 1 Kings 2:13-25 (thematic): Later episode in which Adonijah’s petition (and attempt to secure power) leads to Solomon’s decisive action—illustrates the consequences of Adonijah’s usurpation attempt.
Alternative generated candidates
- When my lord the king lies down with his fathers, I and my son Solomon will be counted offenders.
- For when my lord the king lies down with his fathers, I and my son Solomon will be counted as transgressors.”
1 K.1.22 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והנה: ADV
- עודנה: ADV
- מדברת: VERB,qal,part,3,f,sg
- עם: PREP
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ונתן: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- הנביא: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Kgs 1:32-40 (structural): Same scene continued: Nathan the prophet takes the initiative to orchestrate Solomon’s anointing immediately after entering while Bathsheba is still with David, showing the prophet’s active role in the palace episode.
- 1 Kgs 2:13-25 (thematic): Bathsheba again appears as a palace petitioner whose intervention affects succession and court politics (Adonijah’s request concerning Abishag and Solomon’s response), continuing the dynamics introduced in 1 Kings 1.
- 2 Sam 12:1-15 (thematic): Nathan’s role as David’s prophetic interlocutor is prominent: here he confronts David over Bathsheba and Uriah, illustrating the prophet’s involvement in intimate royal matters and moral/political correction.
- 1 Sam 25:23-31 (thematic): A woman (Abigail) timely intercedes with a future/actual king (David) and alters royal action by direct speech; parallels Bathsheba’s bold approach to the king and the influence of female petitioners at court.
Alternative generated candidates
- While she was still speaking with the king, behold, Nathan the prophet came in.
- While she was yet speaking with the king, behold, Nathan the prophet also came in.
1 K.1.23 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויגידו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- למלך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- הנה: PART
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הנביא: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- לפני: PREP
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וישתחו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- למלך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- אפיו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+SUF,3,m,sg
- ארצה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:47 (structural): Same chapter—reports the formal anointing of Solomon and the subsequent prostration of those present; parallels the act of bowing before the king in the narrative context.
- 2 Samuel 9:6 (verbal): Mephibosheth 'fell on his face and bowed' before King David; similar language and action of prostration before a monarch.
- 1 Samuel 25:23 (verbal): Abigail 'fell at his feet, bowed to the ground' before David—another instance of a subordinate or petitioner prostrating himself before a king/leader using comparable phrasing.
- 1 Chronicles 29:20 (thematic): The people 'bowed and prostrated themselves' before King David in a scene of royal worship and loyalty—thematically similar expression of homage to a king.
- Genesis 18:2 (allusion): Abraham 'ran to meet them and bowed himself toward the ground'—an earlier Near Eastern idiom of bowing to honored visitors or superiors that parallels the physical gesture in 1 Kgs 1:23.
Alternative generated candidates
- They told the king, 'Behold, Nathan the prophet!' and he came before the king and prostrated himself to the king with his face to the ground.
- They told the king, “Behold, Nathan the prophet!” So he came in before the king and bowed himself to the king with his face to the ground.
1 K.1.24 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- אמרת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- אדניהו: NOUN,prop,m,sg
- ימלך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אחרי: PREP
- והוא: CONJ+PRON,3,m,sg
- ישב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- כסאי: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1cs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:10 (verbal): Same episode — earlier report that Adonijah exalted himself and proclaimed himself king, providing the immediate background to Nathan’s complaint.
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (structural): Direct counterpoint: Nathan and Zadok arrange Solomon’s anointing on David’s throne, thwarting Adonijah’s bid and securing the rightful succession.
- 2 Samuel 12:1-7 (thematic): Nathan’s prior role as the prophet who confronts and instructs King David (’You are the man’) shows the prophet’s access and authority in addressing the king’s household and affairs.
- 1 Chronicles 29:22-23 (structural): Chronicles’ parallel account of Solomon’s installation as king, reinforcing the official transfer of the throne that Nathan defends in 1 Kings 1.
- 1 Kings 2:13-25 (thematic): Later resolution of the succession struggle — Adonijah’s continued maneuvering and eventual downfall — shows the consequences of his earlier attempt to sit on the royal throne.
Alternative generated candidates
- Nathan said, 'My lord the king, have you said, "Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne"?'
- Then Nathan said, “My lord the king, have you said, ‘Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne’?
1 K.1.25 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- ירד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויזבח: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- שור: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומריא: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- וצאן: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לרב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויקרא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- לכל: PREP
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ולשרי: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- הצבא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולאביתר: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- הכהן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- והנם: CONJ+DEM,3,m,pl
- אכלים: VERB,ptc,qal,act,_,m,pl
- ושתים: NUM,f,pl,abs
- לפניו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- יחי: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אדניהו: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 1:9-10 (structural): Same episode of Adonijah's self-exaltation—he prepares chariots and supporters and seeks the throne, providing narrative background for the feast/proclamation in v.25.
- 1 Kings 1:35-40 (verbal): Solomon's anointing at Gihon features sacrificial celebration and the crowd shouting 'Long live King Solomon!'—a direct verbal and situational contrast to Adonijah's feast and self-proclamation.
- 2 Samuel 15:13-14 (thematic): Absalom's secret preparations and being proclaimed king in Hebron echo the theme of a rival royal claimant organizing supporters and public acclamation to seize the throne.
- 2 Chronicles 23:11-12 (structural): Jehoiada's orchestration of Joash's coronation (priests, captains, public proclamation, and ritual actions) parallels the cultic/political mechanics of installing a king found in Adonijah's feast and the later counter-move to secure David's chosen successor.
Alternative generated candidates
- For today he has sacrificed oxen, fatlings, and sheep for all his guests, and he has called all the king's sons and the captains of the host and Abiathar the priest; they have eaten and drunk before him, and he has said, "Long live King Adonijah!"'
- For behold, today he has sacrificed sheep, fatlings, and oxen for all his company, and he has called all the king’s sons and the captains of the army and Abiathar the priest; and they are eating and drinking before him, and they say, ‘Long live King Adonijah!’
1 K.1.26 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ולי: CONJ+PREP+PRON,1,sg
- אני: PRON,1,sg
- עבדך: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,ms
- ולצדק: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הכהן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ולבניהו: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוידע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולשלמה: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עבדך: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,ms
- לא: PART_NEG
- קרא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1Kgs.1.32 (verbal): Same scene/commands — king summons Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet and others to secure Solomon's succession; repeats the calling of these figures.
- 1Kgs.1.39 (quotation): Zadok the priest anoints Solomon at Gihon after the call; directly continues and fulfills the call named in v.26.
- 2Sam.5.3 (thematic): The assembly of Israel anoints David as king — parallels the use of anointing and public designation to establish legitimate kingship.
- 1Chr.29.22-23 (structural): David formally installs Solomon and has him sit on the throne of the LORD — a later, fuller account of the transfer of royal authority comparable to the appointment and enthronement actions in 1 Kgs 1.
Alternative generated candidates
- But he did not call me, your servant, nor Zadok the priest, nor Benaiah son of Jehoiada, nor Solomon your servant.
- But I, your servant, and Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and Solomon your servant were not called.
1 K.1.27 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- אם: CONJ
- מאת: PREP
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- נהיה: VERB,niphal,impf,1,pl
- הדבר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
- ולא: CONJ
- הודעת: VERB,hiph,perf,2,f,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- עבדך: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,ms
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- ישב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- כסא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אחריו: PREP,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 2 Samuel 7:12-13 (allusion): God's promise that David's offspring will succeed him and that God will establish his son's throne provides the theological background for questions about who will sit on David's throne.
- 1 Chronicles 28:5-7 (structural): David publicly identifies Solomon as the LORD's choice to succeed him and commissions him for the kingship—an explicit antecedent to the dispute over succession in 1 Kings 1.
- 1 Kings 1:32-40 (verbal): Immediate narrative resolution: David is informed, Solomon is anointed and proclaimed king, directly answering the question who will sit on the king's throne.
- Psalm 89:3-4 (thematic): The psalm affirms God's covenant with David to establish his offspring and throne forever, reflecting the covenantal expectation behind concerns about Davidic succession.
Alternative generated candidates
- Is this thing from my lord the king? For if you have meant this and have not made known to your servant who shall sit on my lord the king's throne after him—
- Is this thing done by my lord the king, and have you not made known to your servant who shall sit on my lord the king’s throne after him?”
Now King David was old, advanced in days; they covered him with garments, but he was not warmed. And his servants said to him, "Let a young virgin be sought for my lord the king, and let her stand before the king and attend him; let her lie in your bosom and be to my lord the king a source of warmth." So they sought for a beautiful young woman throughout all the territory of Israel, and they found Abishag the Shunammite and brought her to the king.
The young woman was very beautiful; she became a servant to the king and ministered to him, but the king did not know her. Now Adonijah son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, "I will be king." He prepared chariots and horsemen and fifty men who ran before him.
His father had never rebuked him at any time by asking, "Why have you done so?" Also he was very handsome in appearance, and his mother bore him after Absalom. And he was supported by Joab son of Zeruiah and by Abiathar the priest; they helped him. But Zadok the priest and Benaiah son of Jehoiada and Nathan the prophet and Shimei and Rei and the mighty men of David were not with Adonijah.
Adonijah sacrificed sheep, oxen, and fatlings in abundance by the stone of Zoheleth which is near En‑rogel, and he called all his brothers, the king's sons, and all the men of Judah, the king's servants. But he did not call Nathan the prophet, nor Benaiah, nor the mighty men, nor Solomon his brother.
Then Nathan said to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, "Have you not heard that Adonijah son of Haggith is now king, and our lord King David does not know it?" Now therefore come, let me give you counsel, that you may save your life and the life of your son Solomon.
Go in and enter before the king and speak to him thus: 'My lord the king, did you not swear to your servant by the LORD your God, saying, "Surely Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit on my throne"? Why then has Adonijah become king?'
Behold, while you are yet speaking with the king I will come after you and confirm your words. So Bathsheba went into the king's chamber. The king was very old, and Abishag the Shunammite was ministering to the king.
Bathsheba bowed and did obeisance to the king; the king said, "What do you desire?"
She said, "My lord, you swore by the LORD your God to your servant, saying, 'Surely Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne.'" Now then, behold—Adonijah has become king, and my lord the king does not know.
He has sacrificed oxen, fatlings, and sheep in great abundance and has called all the king's sons and the commanders of the army and Abiathar the priest; and they are eating and drinking before him and are saying, "Long live King Adonijah!" And you, my lord the king— all Israel's eyes are upon you; tell them who will sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. And it will be, when my lord the king lies down with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon will be counted guilty.
While she was yet speaking with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in.
They told the king, "Behold, Nathan the prophet is here." And he came in before the king and prostrated himself before the king with his face to the ground.
Then Nathan said, "My lord the king, did you say, 'Adonijah shall be king after me, and he shall sit on my throne'?
For today he has sacrificed oxen, fatlings, and sheep in abundance, and he has invited all the king's sons and the commanders of the army and Abiathar the priest; and they are eating and drinking before him and saying, 'Long live King Adonijah!' But he did not call me, your servant, nor Zadok the priest, nor Benaiah son of Jehoiada, nor Solomon your servant.
Is this from my lord the king? You have not informed your servant who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him.