1 Kings 1:34

KJV

And let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel: and blow ye with the trumpet, and say, God save king Solomon.

KJV (with Strong's)

And let Zadok {H6659} the priest {H3548} and Nathan {H5416} the prophet {H5030} anoint {H4886} him there king {H4428} over Israel {H3478}: and blow {H8628} ye with the trumpet {H7782}, and say {H559}, God save {H2421} king {H4428} Solomon {H8010}.

Complete Jewish Bible

There Tzadok the cohen and Natan the prophet are to anoint him king over Isra'el. Sound the shofar and say, "Long live King Shlomo!"

Berean Standard Bible

There Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet are to anoint him king over Israel. You are to blow the ram’s horn and declare, ‘Long live King Solomon!’

American Standard Version

and let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel; and blow ye the trumpet, and say, Long live king Solomon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 1:34 records the decisive command from King David to publicly anoint his son Solomon as king over Israel, a pivotal moment that solidified the legitimate transfer of power amidst a brewing dynastic crisis. This divinely sanctioned act, carried out by the priest Zadok and the prophet Nathan, involved a ceremonial anointing, a trumpet blast, and a communal acclamation, all designed to establish Solomon's authority and secure the throne in accordance with God's promise to David.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the climax of a dramatic narrative in [1 Kings 1](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - David's Old Age and Solomon's Succession"), which opens with King David's advanced age and physical decline. The vacuum of power leads to Adonijah, David's fourth son, presumptuously declaring himself king (see [1 Kings 1:5-10](/1_kings/1-5 "1 Kings 1:5-10 - Adonijah's Usurpation Attempt")). This act of usurpation prompts Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, and Nathan the prophet to appeal to David, reminding him of his oath to make Solomon his successor (see [1 Kings 1:11-27](/1_kings/1-11 "1 Kings 1:11-27 - Bathsheba and Nathan Appeal to David")). David's swift and firm response, culminating in the commands of [1 Kings 1:32-33](/1_kings/1-32 "1 Kings 1:32-33 - David's Command for Solomon's Anointing"), directly precedes our verse. The public anointing and acclamation detailed in [1 Kings 1:34](/1_kings/1-34 "1 Kings 1:34 - Solomon's Anointing") serve as the official counter-declaration, immediately followed by the joyous procession and Solomon's secure enthronement (see [1 Kings 1:38-40](/1_kings/1-38 "1 Kings 1:38-40 - Solomon's Anointing and Acclamation")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite kingship, unlike some neighboring monarchies, was often marked by divine appointment rather than strict primogeniture. The anointing of a king with oil was a crucial ritual, symbolizing divine selection, empowerment by the Spirit of God, and consecration for sacred office. This act was typically performed by a prophet or priest, underscoring the theological legitimacy of the ruler. The ceremony at the Gihon spring (mentioned in [1 Kings 1:33](/1_kings/1-33 "1 Kings 1:33 - David's Command for Solomon's Anointing")) was significant, as springs were associated with life and purity, and Gihon was a traditional location for royal ceremonies. The blowing of the trumpet (shofar) and the public acclamation ("Long live the king!") were customary means of publicizing the new king's reign and eliciting communal loyalty, essential for stabilizing the volatile political landscape of the time.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "The Book of 1 Kings") and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty in Kingship**, demonstrating that God, through His chosen agents (Nathan the prophet and Zadok the priest), orchestrates the succession despite human intrigue. It underscores the **Fulfillment of God's Covenant Promise** to David, specifically that his dynasty would endure (see [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")). The swift and public nature of the anointing also highlights the importance of **Orderly Succession and Legitimacy** in maintaining national stability, contrasting sharply with Adonijah's illegitimate self-proclamation. Finally, the acclamation "God save king Solomon" points to the theme of **Divine Blessing and Protection** invoked upon the new monarch.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Anoint (Hebrew, _mashach_):** This verb signifies the act of smearing or rubbing with oil, particularly in a ceremonial or sacred context. In ancient Israel, it was the ritual by which individuals were consecrated and set apart for a specific, divinely appointed office, whether as a priest (e.g., [Exodus 28:41](/exodus/28-41 "Exodus 28:41 - Consecration of Priests")), a prophet (e.g., [1 Kings 19:16](/1_kings/19-16 "1 Kings 19:16 - Elisha Anointed Prophet")), or a king (e.g., [1 Samuel 10:1](/1_samuel/10-1 "1 Samuel 10:1 - Saul Anointed King")). The word is the root of _mashiach_ (Messiah), meaning "anointed one," underscoring the sacred and divinely chosen nature of Solomon's kingship and its typological significance.
* **God save king Solomon (Hebrew, _yechi ha-melech Shlomo_):** This phrase is an idiomatic acclamation, literally meaning "May the king live!" or "Long live King Solomon!" It is not a plea for God to rescue the king from immediate danger, but rather a fervent wish and prayer for a long, prosperous, and successful reign. It functions as a public declaration of loyalty, allegiance, and hope for the future under the new monarch, effectively cementing his popular legitimacy and authority.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel:":** This clause specifies the key individuals responsible for the anointing and the scope of Solomon's kingship. Zadok, representing the priestly authority and the sacred covenant, and Nathan, embodying the prophetic voice and direct divine revelation, provide a dual, irrefutable stamp of divine approval and legitimacy. Their presence signifies that Solomon's kingship is not merely a political maneuver but a divinely ordained appointment. The "there" refers to the Gihon spring (from [1 Kings 1:33](/1_kings/1-33 "1 Kings 1:33 - David's Command for Solomon's Anointing")), a public and symbolically significant location.
* **"and blow ye with the trumpet,"** This command dictates the public announcement of the anointing. The blowing of the shofar (trumpet) was a traditional signal in Israel, used for assembling the people, announcing festivals, and, crucially, proclaiming a new king. It served as an immediate, audible declaration to the entire city of Jerusalem, ensuring that the news of Solomon's legitimate enthronement would spread rapidly and decisively, countering Adonijah's quiet usurpation.
* **"and say, God save king Solomon."** This final instruction commands the public acclamation. This shout of "Long live the king!" was a communal affirmation of Solomon's reign, a pledge of loyalty from the people, and a prayer for his success and longevity. It solidified the transfer of power with popular consent and divine blessing, publicly rejecting any rival claims.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent **Literary Devices**. **Symbolism** is prominent: the anointing oil symbolizes divine consecration and the impartation of God's Spirit for leadership; the trumpet blast symbolizes a public, authoritative declaration and a call to attention; and the Gihon spring, where the anointing takes place, symbolizes life, purity, and continuity of the Davidic line. The narrative also employs **Contrast**, setting Solomon's divinely sanctioned, publicly affirmed anointing against Adonijah's self-proclaimed, illegitimate, and ultimately futile attempt at kingship. There is also an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as Adonijah and his co-conspirators are feasting and celebrating his supposed ascension while, unbeknownst to them, the legitimate king is being anointed just outside the city walls. This creates a powerful tension that resolves with the swift downfall of Adonijah's rebellion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This pivotal moment in 1 Kings 1:34 profoundly illustrates God's active involvement in human affairs and His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises. It underscores that true authority, especially in leadership over God's people, stems from divine appointment and not merely human ambition or political maneuvering. Even amidst the chaos of a succession crisis, God works through His chosen instruments—the prophet Nathan and the priest Zadok—to establish His sovereign will. This event serves as a powerful reminder that God is faithful to His word, ensuring the continuity of the Davidic line despite internal threats, thereby laying the groundwork for the ultimate King.

* [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")
* [Psalm 2:6-7](/psalm/2-6 "Psalm 2:6-7 - God's Anointed King")
* [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - Prophecy of the Messianic King")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The anointing of Solomon in [1 Kings 1:34](/1_kings/1-34 "1 Kings 1:34 - Solomon's Anointing") offers profound lessons for believers today regarding leadership, divine authority, and the nature of God's faithfulness. It reminds us that God is sovereign over all transitions, whether in our personal lives, our communities, or our nations. Even when faced with uncertainty, intrigue, or opposition, God's purposes will ultimately prevail. This passage encourages us to seek and affirm leadership that is divinely appointed and consecrated, recognizing that true authority is not self-proclaimed but bestowed by God and affirmed by His people. It also highlights the importance of public transparency and communal affirmation in significant transitions, ensuring unity and stability. For us, this means trusting in God's overarching plan, supporting those whom He has raised up, and participating in the communal affirmation of His will, knowing that His promises are always "Yes" and "Amen."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the divine authorization of Solomon's kingship challenge our modern understanding of leadership and power?**
* **In what ways can we, as believers, discern and affirm God's chosen leaders in our own contexts today?**
* **How does the public nature of Solomon's anointing encourage transparency and communal participation in significant decisions within the church or community?**
* **What lessons can we draw from David's decisive action in securing Solomon's succession regarding fulfilling our own commitments and promises?**

### FAQ

**Why were Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet specifically chosen to anoint Solomon?**

Answer: The selection of Zadok and Nathan was crucial for establishing Solomon's legitimacy and divine authorization. Zadok, as the high priest, represented the religious authority and the covenant relationship between God and Israel. His participation signified God's blessing and the sacred nature of Solomon's kingship. Nathan, as a prophet, was God's direct mouthpiece, having previously delivered God's covenant promise to David regarding his enduring dynasty (see [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant")). Their joint involvement underscored that Solomon's anointing was not merely a political maneuver but a direct fulfillment of God's will and promise, providing irrefutable spiritual and theological endorsement for his reign.

**What was the significance of the trumpet blast and the acclamation "God save king Solomon"?**

Answer: The trumpet blast (shofar) served as a powerful, immediate, and public announcement of Solomon's anointing. In ancient Israel, the shofar was used for various significant occasions, including calling assemblies, signaling war, and proclaiming a new king. Its sound would have reached throughout Jerusalem, ensuring that the news of the legitimate succession was widely known and understood, effectively countering Adonijah's quiet usurpation. The acclamation, "God save king Solomon" (literally "May the king live!"), was a traditional shout of loyalty, allegiance, and a prayer for a long and prosperous reign. It was a communal affirmation of the new king's authority, solidifying popular support and demonstrating the people's acceptance of God's chosen ruler.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The anointing of Solomon in [1 Kings 1:34](/1_kings/1-34 "1 Kings 1:34 - Solomon's Anointing") serves as a profound Old Testament type pointing to the ultimate Anointed One, Jesus Christ, the true King of Israel and the world. Just as Solomon was divinely chosen and consecrated by God through His representatives, so too was Jesus set apart and anointed by the Holy Spirit for His messianic office (see [Acts 10:38](/acts/10-38 "Acts 10:38 - Jesus Anointed with the Holy Spirit")). Solomon's peaceful reign, symbolized by his name meaning "peace," foreshadows the eternal reign of the "Prince of Peace" (see [Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Prince of Peace")). While Solomon's kingdom was earthly and temporary, Christ's kingdom is spiritual and eternal, extending to all nations (see [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus' Eternal Kingdom")). The public acclamation "God save king Solomon" finds its ultimate fulfillment in the universal confession that Jesus is Lord, the King of kings and Lord of lords, to whom every knee will bow (see [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Jesus, the greater Son of David, fulfills the Davidic Covenant not merely by sitting on a physical throne but by establishing a spiritual kingdom that knows no end, reigning with perfect justice and righteousness (see [Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - Christ's Eternal Throne")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 10:1

¶ Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured [it] upon his head, and kissed him, and said, [Is it] not because the LORD hath anointed thee [to be] captain over his inheritance?

2 Samuel 15:10

But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron.

1 Kings 1:25

For he is gone down this day, and hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the king's sons, and the captains of the host, and Abiathar the priest; and, behold, they eat and drink before him, and say, God save king Adonijah.

1 Kings 19:16

And Jehu the son of Nimshi shalt thou anoint [to be] king over Israel: and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abelmeholah shalt thou anoint [to be] prophet in thy room.

1 Samuel 16:3

And call Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will shew thee what thou shalt do: and thou shalt anoint unto me [him] whom I name unto thee.

2 Samuel 5:3

So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David made a league with them in Hebron before the LORD: and they anointed David king over Israel.

2 Kings 11:12

And he brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and [gave him] the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God save the king.