1 Kings 1:34

Translation
King James Version
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.
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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.
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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!"
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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!’
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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.
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World English Bible Messianic
Let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel. Blow the shofar, and say, ‘Long live king Solomon!’
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Geneva Bible (1599)
And let Zadok the Priest and Nathan the Prophet anoint him there King ouer Israel, and blowe ye the trumpet, and say, God saue king Salomon.
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Young's Literal Translation
and anointed him there hath Zadok the priest--and Nathan the prophet--for king over Israel, and ye have blown with a trumpet, and said, Let king Solomon live;
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See also
1 Samuel 10:12 Samuel 15:101 Kings 1:251 Kings 19:161 Samuel 16:32 Samuel 5:32 Kings 11:12
See on the biblical-era map
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of Solomon
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of Solomon View full PDF
Solomon and Adonijah
Solomon and Adonijah View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 8,752 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Kings 1:34 records King David's decisive command 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 dramatic climax of 1 Kings 1, which opens with the aged King David's physical decline, creating a power vacuum. This precarious situation is exploited by Adonijah, David's fourth son, who presumptuously declares himself king (see 1 Kings 1:5-10). His attempted coup prompts Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, and Nathan the prophet to urgently appeal to David, reminding him of his solemn oath to make Solomon his successor (see 1 Kings 1:11-27). David's swift and firm response, culminating in the precise commands of 1 Kings 1:32-33, directly precedes our verse. The public anointing and acclamation detailed in 1 Kings 1:34 serve as the official counter-declaration, immediately followed by the joyous procession and Solomon's secure enthronement, which effectively crushes Adonijah's rebellion (see 1 Kings 1:38-40).
  • Historical & Cultural Context: Ancient Israelite kingship, unlike some neighboring monarchies that relied on strict primogeniture, was often characterized by divine appointment and prophetic anointing. The anointing of a king with oil was a crucial ritual, symbolizing divine selection, the impartation of the Spirit of God, and consecration for a sacred office. This act was typically performed by a prophet or priest, underscoring the theological legitimacy of the ruler, as seen with Saul and David. The ceremony at the Gihon spring (mentioned in 1 Kings 1:33) was highly significant, as springs were associated with life, purity, and continuity, 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 often-volatile political landscape of the ancient Near East.
  • Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within 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 and ambition. It underscores the Fulfillment of God's Covenant Promise to David, specifically that his dynasty would endure and that a son would succeed him on the throne (see 2 Samuel 7:12-16). The swift and public nature of the anointing also highlights the critical importance of Orderly Succession and Legitimacy in maintaining national stability and unity, 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, emphasizing that true leadership is sustained by God's favor.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Anoint (Hebrew, mâshach, H4886): This primitive root verb signifies the act of rubbing or smearing with oil, especially in a ceremonial or sacred context. In ancient Israel, anointing was the ritual by which individuals were consecrated and set apart for a specific, divinely appointed office. This applied to priests (e.g., Exodus 28:41), prophets (e.g., 1 Kings 19:16), and most notably, kings (e.g., 1 Samuel 10:1). The term is the root of mashiach (Messiah), meaning "anointed one," underscoring the sacred and divinely chosen nature of Solomon's kingship and its typological significance for the ultimate Messiah.
  • King (Hebrew, melek, H4428): Derived from the root meaning "to rule," this noun denotes a sovereign ruler, a monarch. In the context of Israel, a king was understood not merely as a political leader but as God's chosen representative, ruling on His behalf. Solomon's anointing as "king over Israel" signifies his legitimate claim to the Davidic throne, established by divine decree and human agency, thereby confirming his authority over the entire nation as God's appointed shepherd.
  • Save (Hebrew, châyâh, H2421): This primitive root means "to live," "to revive," or "to preserve alive." In the phrase "God save king Solomon," it functions as an idiomatic expression, a fervent wish and prayer for the king's long life, prosperity, and successful reign. It is not a plea for rescue from immediate danger, but rather an invocation of divine blessing and sustained vitality for the monarch, signifying the people's desire for God's continued favor upon him and his rule.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel:": This clause specifies the key individuals entrusted with the sacred task of anointing Solomon and the scope of his new authority. Zadok, representing the priestly authority and the sacred covenant, and Nathan, embodying the prophetic voice and direct divine revelation, together provide an irrefutable stamp of divine approval and legitimacy. Their joint involvement signifies that Solomon's kingship is not merely a political maneuver but a divinely ordained appointment, consecrated by both the religious and prophetic offices. The adverb "there" refers to the Gihon spring, a public and symbolically significant location for royal inaugurations.
  • "and blow ye with the trumpet," This command dictates the public announcement of the anointing. The blowing of the shofar (trumpet) was a traditional and powerful 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, effectively countering Adonijah's quiet and illegitimate usurpation. The sound would have carried far, leaving no doubt about the official transfer of power.
  • "and say, God save king Solomon." This final instruction commands the public acclamation of the new king. This shout of "Long live the king!" (literally, "May the king live!") was a communal affirmation of Solomon's reign, a pledge of loyalty from the people, and a prayer for his success, longevity, and divine blessing. It solidified the transfer of power with popular consent and divine endorsement, publicly rejecting any rival claims and cementing the new monarch's authority.

Literary Devices

The passage employs several potent Literary Devices to convey its message. Symbolism is profoundly present: the anointing oil symbolizes divine consecration, the impartation of God's Spirit, and the setting apart for a sacred office; the trumpet blast symbolizes a public, authoritative declaration, a call to attention, and the inauguration of a new era; and the Gihon spring, the location of the anointing, symbolizes life, purity, and the continuity of the Davidic line. The narrative also employs stark Contrast, setting Solomon's divinely sanctioned, publicly affirmed anointing against Adonijah's self-proclaimed, illegitimate, and ultimately futile attempt at kingship. This contrast highlights the difference between human ambition and divine appointment. Furthermore, there is 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 and the triumph of God's ordained plan.

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, political maneuvering, or primogeniture. 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 who would inherit David's throne.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The anointing of Solomon in 1 Kings 1:34 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 within any body, especially the church. For us, this means trusting in God's overarching plan, discerning and 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" in Christ Jesus.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does the divine authorization of Solomon's kingship challenge our modern understanding of leadership and power, especially in secular contexts?
  • In what ways can we, as believers, discern and affirm God's chosen leaders in our own contexts today, whether in the church, family, or community?
  • 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, particularly those made before God?

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). 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, crucially, 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, invoking divine blessing upon his reign.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The anointing of Solomon in 1 Kings 1:34 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). Solomon's peaceful reign, symbolized by his name meaning "peace," foreshadows the eternal reign of the "Prince of Peace" (see Isaiah 9:6). While Solomon's kingdom was earthly and temporary, a shadow of what was to come, Christ's kingdom is spiritual and eternal, extending to all nations (see Luke 1:32-33). The public acclamation "God save king Solomon" finds its ultimate and universal fulfillment in the confession that Jesus is Lord, the King of kings and Lord of lords, to whom every knee will bow and every tongue confess (see Philippians 2:10-11). 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 from His heavenly throne (see Hebrews 1:8).

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Commentary on 1 Kings 1 verses 32–40

We have here the effectual care David took both to secure Solomon's right and to preserve the public peace, by crushing Adonijah's project in the bud. Observe,

I. The express orders he gave for the proclaiming of Solomon. The persons he entrusted with this great affair were Zadok, Nathan, and Benaiah, men of power and interest whom David had always reposed a confidence in and found faithful to him, and whom Adonijah had passed by in his invitation, Kg1 1:10. David orders them forthwith, with all possible solemnity, to proclaim Solomon. They must take with them the servants of their lord, the lifeguards, and all the servants of the household. They must set Solomon on the mule the king used to ride, for he kept not such stables of horses as his son afterwards did. He appoints them whither to go (Kg1 1:33 and Kg1 1:34, Kg1 1:35), and what to do. 1. Zadok and Nathan, the two ecclesiastical persons, must, in God's name, anoint him king; for though he was not the first of his family, as Saul and David were, yet he was a younger son, was made king by divine appointment, and his title was contested, which made it necessary that hereby it should be settled. This unction was typical of the designation and qualification of the Messiah, or Christ, the anointed one, on whom the Spirit, that oil of gladness, was poured without measure, Heb 1:9, Psa 89:20. And all Christians, being heirs of the kingdom (Jam 2:5), do from him receive the anointing, Jo1 2:27. 2. The great officers, civil and military, are ordered to give public notice of this, and to express the public joy upon this occasion by sound of trumpet, by which the law of Moses directed the gracing of great solemnities; to this must be added the acclamations of the people: "Let king Solomon live, let him prosper, let his kingdom be established and perpetuated, and let him long continue in the enjoyment of it;" so it had been promised concerning him. Psa 72:15, He shall live. 3. They must then bring him in state to the city of David, and he must sit upon the throne of his father, as his substitute now, or viceroy, to despatch public business during his weakness and be his successor after his death: He shall be king in my stead. It would be a great satisfaction to David himself, and to all parties concerned, to have this done immediately, that upon the demise of the king there might be no dispute, or agitation, in the public affairs. David was far from grudging his successor the honour of appearing such in his life-time, and yet perhaps was so taken up with his devotions on his sick-bed that, if he had not been put in mind of it by others, this great good work, which was so necessary to the public repose, would have been left undone.

II. The great satisfaction which Benaiah, in the name of the rest, professed in these orders. The king said, "Solomon shall reign for me, and reign after me." "Amen" (says Benaiah heartily); "as the king says, so say we; we are entirely satisfied in the nomination, and concur in the choice, we give our vote for Solomon, nemine contradicente - unanimously, and since we can bring nothing to pass, much less establish it, without the concurrence of a propitious providence, The Lord God of my lord the king say so too!" Kg1 1:36. This is the language of his faith in that promise of God on which Solomon's government was founded. If we say as God says in his word, we may hope that he will say as we say by his providence. To this he adds a prayer for Solomon (Kg1 1:37), that God would be with him as he had been with David, and make his throne greater. He knew David was not one of those that envy their children's greatness, and that therefore he would not be disquieted at this prayer, nor take it as an affront, but would heartily say Amen to it. The wisest and best man in the world desires his children may be wiser and better than he, for he himself desires to be wiser and better than he is; and wisdom and goodness are true greatness.

III. The immediate execution of these orders, Kg1 1:38-40. No time was lost, but Solomon was brought in state to the place appointed, and there Zadok (who, though he was not as yet high priest, was, we may suppose, the suffragan, the Jews called him the sagan, or second priest) anointed him by the direction of Nathan the prophet and David the king, Kg1 1:39. In the tabernacle, where the ark was now lodged, was kept among other sacred things, the holy oil for many religious services thence Zadok took a horn of oil, which denotes both power and plenty, and therewith anointed Solomon. We do not find that Abiathar pretended to anoint Adonijah: he was made king by a feast, not by an unction. Whom God calls, he will qualify, which was signified by the anointing; usurpers had it not. Christ signifies anointed, and he is the king whom God hath set upon his holy hill of Sion, according to decree, Psa 2:6, Psa 2:7. Christians also are made to our God (and by him) kings, and they have an unction from the Holy One, Jo1 2:20. The people, hereupon, express their great joy and satisfaction in the elevation of Solomon, surround him with their Hosannas - God save king Solomon, and attend him with their music and shouts of joy, Kg1 1:40. Hereby they declared their concurrence in the choice, and that he was not forced upon them, but cheerfully accepted by them. The power of a prince can be little satisfaction to himself, unless he knows it to be a satisfaction to his people. Every Israelite indeed rejoices in the exaltation of the Son of David.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 32–40. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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