Then sat Solomon on the throne of David his father ,.... So he did in his lifetime, with his consent, and by his order, and now by the agreement of the whole people: and his kingdom was established greatly ; all submitting to it, and none opposing it. read more
EXPOSITION ADONIJAH 'S INTRIGUE . And Solomon sate on the throne of David his father, and his kingdom [ i.e; dominion, sway] was established greatly. [Cf. 2 Chronicles 1:1 , 2 Chronicles 1:2 . This verse serves as a kind of heading or introduction to the rest of the chapter. It was principally by the removal of rivals and disaffected persons that his sway was established. read more
The “establishment” of the kingdom here intended is probably its universal acceptance both by the tribe of Judah and the other Israelites. read more
1 Kings 2:12 . Then sat Solomon upon the throne, &c. The kingdom was settled upon him with universal consent and approbation. His kingdom was established He had the hearty affections of his people, which all men know to be a prince’s best and surest establishment. read more
Opponents of Solomon executed (2:1-46)As he saw his death approaching, David passed on to Solomon advice aimed at ensuring stability to his reign and good government for God’s people. The first and most important point was a reminder to be faithful to God. God’s promises of a prosperous kingdom and a lasting dynasty required David and his successors to be obedient to God’s will. Without obedience, there was no guarantee of blessing (2:1-4; 1 Chronicles 22:6-16).David’s second piece of advice to... read more
12. Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father—His ascension to the royal dignity was made under the happiest auspices. Having been born after his father became monarch of the whole kingdom, his claim, according to the notions of Oriental people, was preferable to that of all, even his elder brothers. The Hebrew kingdom enjoyed internal prosperity; it was respected and renowned abroad, and Solomon well knew how to improve these advantages. read more
A. Solomon’s Succession to David’s Throne 1:1-2:12The first segment of the writer’s story (1 Kings 1:1 to 1 Kings 2:12) continues the history of Israel’s monarchy where 2 Samuel ended. It records the final events in David’s reign that led to Solomon’s succession to the throne. It answers the question raised in 2 Samuel 9-20, namely, "Who will succeed David?" Similarly, Genesis 12-22 answers the question, "Who will be Abram’s heir?" read more
4. David’s death 2:10-12David and Saul each reigned for 40 years (cf. Acts 13:21). The differences in their personal lives and administrations were not due to differences in the time they ruled. The course of their careers sprang from God’s response to them that their response to Yahweh’s will determined. David experienced God’s blessing as a warrior, poet, musician, military commander, administrator, and man of God. His most significant characteristic, I believe, was his heart for God.David... read more
David’s last Will and TestamentThe recital of David’s last charge to Solomon and his death is followed by an account of the execution of Adonijah, Joab, and Shimei.3, 4. Cp. Deuteronomy 17; 2 Samuel 7.5. Abner.. Amasa] For Abner see 1 Chronicles 9:36; 1 Samuel 14:50; 2 Samuel 2-3 for Amasa see 2 Samuel 17:25 (Cp. 1 Chronicles 2), 2 Samuel 19:13; 2 Samuel 20:4-13. Joab’s slaying of Abner may be palliated, though not justified, in consideration of his kinship with Asahel, whom Abner had killed;... read more
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Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - 1 Kings 2:12-25
Here is, I. Solomon's accession to the throne, 1 Kgs. 2:12. He came to it much more easily and peaceably than David did, and much sooner saw his government established. It is happy for a kingdom when the end of one good reign is the beginning of another, as it was here. II. His just and necessary removal of Adonijah his rival, in order to the establishment of his throne. Adonijah had made some bold pretensions to the crown, but was soon obliged to let them fail and throw himself upon Solomon's... read more