TRV
Translation
King James Version
So king Solomon sent, and they brought him down from the altar. And he came and bowed himself to king Solomon: and Solomon said unto him, Go to thine house.
Complete Jewish Bible
So King Shlomo sent, and they brought him down from the altar. He came and prostrated himself before King Shlomo; and Shlomo said to him, 'Go on home.'"
Berean Standard Bible
So King Solomon summoned Adonijah down from the altar, and he came and bowed down before King Solomon, who said to him, “Go to your home.”
American Standard Version
So king Solomon sent, and they brought him down from the altar. And he came and did obeisance to king Solomon; and Solomon said unto him, Go to thy house.
World English Bible Messianic
So king Solomon sent, and they brought him down from the altar. He came and bowed down to king Solomon; and Solomon said to him, “Go to your house.”
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then King Salomon sent, and they brought him from the altar, and he came and did obeisance vnto King Salomon. And Salomon sayde vnto him, Go to thine house.
Young's Literal Translation
And king Solomon sendeth, and they bring him down from off the altar, and he cometh in and boweth himself to king Solomon, and Solomon saith to him, `Go to thy house.'
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In the KJVVerse 8,771 of 31,102
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Commentary on 1 Kings 1 verses 41–53
41 ¶ And Adonijah and all the guests that were with him heard it as they had made an end of eating. And when Joab heard the sound of the trumpet, he said, Wherefore is this noise of the city being in an uproar?
42 And while he yet spake, behold, Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest came: and Adonijah said unto him, Come in; for thou art a valiant man, and bringest good tidings.
43 And Jonathan answered and said to Adonijah, Verily our lord king David hath made Solomon king.
44 And the king hath sent with him Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and the Cherethites, and the Pelethites, and they have caused him to ride upon the king's mule:
45 And Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet have anointed him king in Gihon: and they are come up from thence rejoicing, so that the city rang again. This is the noise that ye have heard.
46 And also Solomon sitteth on the throne of the kingdom.
47 And moreover the king's servants came to bless our lord king David, saying, God make the name of Solomon better than thy name, and make his throne greater than thy throne. And the king bowed himself upon the bed.
48 And also thus said the king, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which hath given one to sit on my throne this day, mine eyes even seeing it.
49 And all the guests that were with Adonijah were afraid, and rose up, and went every man his way.
50 And Adonijah feared because of Solomon, and arose, and went, and caught hold on the horns of the altar.
51 And it was told Solomon, saying, Behold, Adonijah feareth king Solomon: for, lo, he hath caught hold on the horns of the altar, saying, Let king Solomon swear unto me to day that he will not slay his servant with the sword.
52 And Solomon said, If he will shew himself a worthy man, there shall not an hair of him fall to the earth: but if wickedness shall be found in him, he shall die.
53 So king Solomon sent, and they brought him down from the altar. And he came and bowed himself to king Solomon: and Solomon said unto him, Go to thine house.
We have here,
I. The tidings of Solomon's inauguration brought to Adonijah and his party, in the midst of their jollity: They had made an end of eating, and, it should seem, it was a great while before they made an end, for all the affair of Solomon's anointing was ordered and finished while they were at dinner, glutting themselves. Thus those who serve not our Lord Christ, but oppose him, are commonly such as serve their own belly (Rom 16:18) and made a god of it, Phi 3:19. Their long feast intimates likewise that they were very secure and confident of their interest, else they would not have lost so much time. The old world and Sodom were eating and drinking, secure and sensual, when their destruction came, Luk 17:26, etc. When they made an end of eating, and were preparing themselves to proclaim their king, and bring him in triumph into the city, they heard the sound of the trumpet (Kg1 1:41), and a dreadful sound it was in their ears, Job 15:21. Joab was an old man, and was alarmed at it, apprehending the city to be in an uproar; but Adonijah was very confident that the messenger, being a worthy man, brought good tidings, Kg1 1:42. Usurpers flatter themselves with the hopes of success, and those are commonly least timorous whose condition is most dangerous. But how can those who do evil deeds expect to have good tidings? No, the worthiest man will bring them the worst news, as the priest's son did here to Adonijah, Kg1 1:43. "Verily, the best tidings I have to bring you is that Solomon is made king, so that your pretensions are all quashed." He relates to them very particularly, 1. With what great solemnity Solomon was made king (Kg1 1:44, Kg1 1:45), and that he was now sitting on the throne of the kingdom, Kg1 1:46. Adonijah thought to have stepped into the throne before him, but Solomon was too quick for him. 2. With what general satisfaction Solomon was made king, so that that which was done was not likely to be undone again. (1.) The people were pleased, witness their joyful acclamations, Kg1 1:45. (2.) The courtiers were pleased: The kings servants attended him with an address of congratulation upon this occasion, Kg1 1:47. We have here the heads of their address: They blessed king David, applauded his prudent care for the public welfare, acknowledged their happiness under his government, and prayed heartily for his recovery. They also prayed for Solomon, that God would make his name better than his father's, which it might well be when he had his father's foundation to build upon. A child, on a giant's shoulders, is higher than the giant himself. (3.) The king himself was pleased: He bowed himself upon the bed, not only to signify his acceptance of his servants' address, but to offer up his own address to God (Kg1 1:48): "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who, as Israel's God, for Israel's good, has brought this matter to such a happy issue, my eyes even seeing it." Note, It is a great satisfaction to good men, when they are going out of the world, to see the affairs of their families in a good posture, their children rising up in their stead to serve God and their generation, and especially to see peace upon Israel and the establishment of it.
II. The effectual crush which this gave to Adonijah's attempt. It spoiled the sport of his party, dispersed the company, and obliged every man to shift for his own safety. The triumphing of the wicked is short. They were building a castle in the air, which, having no foundation, would soon fall and crush them. They were afraid of being taken in the fact, while they were together hatching their treason, and therefore each one made the best of his way.
III. The terror Adonijah himself was in, and the course he took to secure himself. he was now as much depressed as he had been elevated, Kg1 1:42, Kg1 1:50. He had despised Solomon as not worthy to be his guest (Kg1 1:10), but now he dreads him as his judge: He feared because of Solomon. Thus those who oppose Christ and his kingdom will shortly be made to tremble before him, and call in vain to rocks and mountains to shelter them from his wrath. He took hold on the horns of the altar, which was always looked upon as a sanctuary, or place of refuge (Exo 21:14), intimating hereby that he durst not stand a trial, but threw himself upon the mercy of his prince, in suing for which he relied upon no other plea than the mercy of God, which was manifested in the institution and acceptance of the sacrifices that were offered on that altar and the remission of sin thereupon. Perhaps Adonijah had formerly slighted the service of the altar, yet now he courts the protection of it. Many who in the day of their security neglect the great salvation, under the arrests of the terrors of the Lord would gladly be beholden to Christ and his merit, and, when it is too late, will catch hold of the horns of the altar.
IV. His humble address to Solomon for mercy. By those who brought Solomon tidings where he was, he sent a request for his life (Kg1 1:51): Let king Solomon swear to me that he will not slay his servant. He owns Solomon for his prince, and himself his servant, dares not justify himself, but makes supplication to his judge. It was a great change with him. He that in the morning was grasping at a crown is before night begging for his life. Then Adonijah reigned, now Adonijah trembles, and cannot think himself safe unless Solomon promise, with an oath, not to put him to death.
V. The orders Solomon gave concerning him. He discharges him upon his good behaviour, Kg1 1:52, Kg1 1:53. He considered that Adonijah was his brother, and that it was the first offence. Perhaps, being so soon made sensible of his error and then not persisting in his rebellion, he might prove not only a peaceable, but a serviceable subject, and therefore, if he will conduct himself well for the future, what is past shall be pardoned: but if he be fond disaffected, turbulent, and aspiring, this offence shall be remembered against him, he shall be called up upon his former conviction (as our law speaks), and execution shall be awarded against him. Thus the Son of David receives those to mercy that have been rebellious: if they will return to their allegiance, and be faithful to their Sovereign, their former crimes shall not be mentioned against them; but, if still they continue in the interests of the world and the flesh, this will be their ruin. Adonijah is sent for, and told upon what terms he stands, which he signifies his grateful submission to, and then is told to go to his house and live retired there. Solomon not only gave him his life, but his estate, thus establishing his throne by mercy.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 41–53. 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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SUMMARY
This verse encapsulates the pivotal moment of Adonijah's submission to the newly enthroned King Solomon, marking the decisive end of his attempted usurpation. Having desperately sought refuge at the sacred horns of the altar, a traditional place of asylum, Adonijah is brought before Solomon, where he performs a profound act of obeisance, publicly acknowledging Solomon's legitimate kingship. In a display of initial prudence and conditional mercy, Solomon spares Adonijah's life, sending him home with a clear warning, thereby solidifying his own authority and ushering in a new era of royal stability.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The passage employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and dramatic impact. Symbolism is prominently featured, with the "horns of the altar" serving as a potent symbol of desperate refuge and divine sanctuary, highlighting Adonijah's utter fear and his appeal to a higher, sacred power for protection. Adonijah's act of "bowing" is also profoundly symbolic, representing complete submission, the formal acknowledgment of Solomon's legitimate authority, and the public surrender of his own claim to the throne. There is a strong element of Foreshadowing in Solomon's initial act of mercy. While it showcases his nascent wisdom and a desire for a peaceful transition, it also subtly hints at the conditional and precarious nature of this clemency. The reader, especially with the benefit of hindsight from 1 Kings 2, perceives a profound layer of Dramatic Irony. Solomon's seemingly benign command, "Go to thine house," is laden with irony, as Adonijah's future actions will inevitably lead him away from his house and ultimately to his execution, revealing that this reprieve was only temporary and contingent upon a loyalty Adonijah could not, or would not, maintain.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This pivotal moment in Solomon's early reign profoundly illustrates the intricate intersection of divine will and human action. God's sovereign choice of Solomon as David's successor is powerfully affirmed, not through Solomon's military might, but through Adonijah's forced submission and Solomon's wise and measured handling of the situation. Solomon's initial act of mercy reflects a divine attribute, demonstrating a measured approach to justice that prioritizes stability and the establishment of legitimate authority. This conditional mercy also highlights the biblical principle that while God is abundant in mercy, there are profound consequences for rebellion against His ordained order, and a demand for true, heartfelt submission. The narrative underscores that God's ultimate plans prevail, even amidst human ambition, political maneuvering, and desperate attempts to thwart His will, and that true peace and order in a kingdom are ultimately found in acknowledging and submitting to God-ordained authority.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Solomon's handling of Adonijah's rebellion offers profound and enduring lessons for leadership, justice, and the nature of submission in both spiritual and temporal realms. His initial act of mercy, though strategically astute, demonstrates a wisdom that seeks to consolidate power through clemency and a measured approach rather than immediate bloodshed, thereby setting a significant tone for his nascent reign. For believers today, this passage serves as a powerful reminder that true authority, whether in civil government, the church, or within our families, is ultimately established by God, and our willing submission to legitimate leadership is often the pathway to peace, order, and stability. It challenges us to deeply consider how we respond when our personal ambitions are thwarted, or when authority is placed over us that we did not choose or perhaps even resent. Do we, like Adonijah, seek temporary refuge in outward acts of submission while harboring inner rebellion, or do we humbly and genuinely submit to the established order, trusting in God's overarching and perfect plan? This story serves as a cautionary tale against seizing power through improper means, emphasizing the paramount importance of humility, patience, and unwavering trust in God's timing and divine providence, rather than resorting to self-serving ambition or manipulative tactics. It calls us to reflect on the nature of true repentance and submission, which is not merely an outward, performative act but a genuine transformation of heart that leads to lasting peace and alignment with God's will.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Adonijah flee to the altar?
Answer: Adonijah fled to the altar because it was a well-established and traditional place of asylum in ancient Israel. The horns of the altar were considered sacred, and grasping them was a desperate, public appeal for sanctuary and clemency. This custom was rooted in the Mosaic Law, which provided for cities of refuge and, in certain circumstances, sanctuary at the altar for those who had committed unintentional homicide (Exodus 21:12-14). Adonijah, having failed in his coup attempt against Solomon and fearing immediate execution for treason, sought to invoke this ancient right to avoid swift retribution, hoping for a reprieve or a fair hearing.
Was Solomon's mercy genuine or strategic?
Answer: Solomon's mercy in 1 Kings 1:53 was likely a sophisticated blend of both genuine clemency and strategic prudence. As a newly crowned king, Solomon needed to consolidate his power and establish his authority without immediately resorting to widespread bloodshed, which could destabilize his nascent reign and alienate potential supporters. Extending mercy to Adonijah, a prominent rival and David's son, demonstrated his wisdom, strength, and a measured, judicious approach to justice. It also offered Adonijah a chance to prove his loyalty. However, this mercy was explicitly conditional ("if he show himself a worthy man," as stated in 1 Kings 1:52), indicating that it was also a strategic move to test Adonijah's future conduct and ensure the long-term stability of the kingdom. Solomon's decisive actions in 1 Kings 2, where Adonijah is later executed for another perceived threat, reveal the precise and conditional nature of this initial mercy.
What happened to Adonijah after this event?
Answer: Adonijah's reprieve was short-lived and ultimately conditional. After this event, he returned home as commanded by Solomon. However, in 1 Kings 2, following King David's death, Adonijah approaches Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, with a request to marry Abishag, David's former companion. Solomon interprets this request not as a simple desire for a wife but as another insidious attempt to claim the throne, as marrying a deceased king's concubine or companion was a recognized way to assert a claim to the kingship in the ancient Near East. Seeing this as a direct challenge to his authority and a violation of the conditional mercy he had extended, Solomon immediately orders Adonijah's execution through Benaiah, thereby decisively eliminating a potential rival and fulfilling the implicit warning given in 1 Kings 1:52.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Adonijah's desperate rebellion and Solomon's measured, conditional response finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, the true and eternal King. Solomon's initial act of mercy, while prudent and conditional upon Adonijah's future conduct, foreshadows the boundless, unconditional, and transformative mercy of God revealed in Christ. Unlike Adonijah, who clung to a physical altar for temporary refuge from a human king's wrath, humanity finds eternal asylum and ultimate safety not in a sacred object, but in Christ Himself, who is our true refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. The "horns of the altar" symbolized a desperate plea for life and a temporary stay of execution, but Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, became the ultimate and perfect sacrifice on the cross, providing not just a temporary reprieve but eternal life, complete forgiveness, and full reconciliation with God (Hebrews 9:26). Adonijah's forced bowing to Solomon signifies submission to an earthly king whose reign was limited and temporal; however, the Scriptures declare that every knee will one day bow to Jesus, acknowledging His universal, eternal, and righteous kingship, which is not gained through human political maneuvering or military conquest but through divine appointment, sacrificial love, and resurrection power (Colossians 1:13-14). Solomon's command "Go to thine house" offered Adonijah a conditional and precarious peace, but Christ offers a peace that surpasses all understanding, a true and eternal dwelling in God's presence for all who genuinely repent and submit to His Lordship (John 14:27). He is the King whose reign is not contingent on human worthiness or performance but is founded on His perfect righteousness and boundless grace, offering eternal security and an unshakeable kingdom to all who come to Him by faith.