1 kings 1:25 - For he has gone down today, and has slain cattle, fatlings, and sheep in abundance, and has called all the king’s sons, the captains of the army, and Abiathar the priest. Behold, they are eating and drinking before him, and saying, ‘Long live king Adonijah!’

Generated Verse: 1 kings 1:25

What does "1 kings 1:25" mean?


This verse from 1 Kings 1:25 describes a scene of a rebellion or a power grab orchestrated by Adonijah, one of King David's sons. Let's break it down:

"For he has gone down today, and has slain cattle, fatlings, and sheep in abundance...": This indicates that Adonijah has thrown a large feast. The mention of "cattle, fatlings, and sheep in abundance" suggests a lavish and impressive display of wealth and power. He's using a feast to garner support and create an atmosphere of celebration and allegiance.

"...and has called all the king’s sons, the captains of the army, and Abiathar the priest.": This is where the rebellious nature of the event becomes clearer. He's gathered key figures:

All the king's sons (except Solomon): He's consolidating support within the royal family, likely aiming to exclude Solomon, who David and Bathsheba had previously promised would be heir to the throne.
The captains of the army: Gaining the support of military leaders is crucial for a successful coup. If they back him, he can enforce his claim to the throne.
Abiathar the priest: Abiathar was a high-ranking priest. Gaining his support would lend religious legitimacy to Adonijah's claim.

"Behold, they are eating and drinking before him, and saying, ‘Long live king Adonijah!’": This confirms that Adonijah is actively seeking to be proclaimed king. The people present are publicly declaring their allegiance to him. The phrase "Long live king Adonijah!" is a declaration of his kingship.

In summary, the verse depicts Adonijah staging a rebellion by hosting a grand feast for important figures and having himself proclaimed king, in defiance of King David's wishes for Solomon to succeed him. It highlights the ambition, political maneuvering, and the potential for civil war that is brewing as David's health declines. It shows Adonijah actively taking steps to secure the throne by gaining the support of key influential figures in the kingdom.