1 Kings 1 - Summary

As aged King David lies dying, unable to keep warm even with Abishag the Shunammite attendant, his son Adonijah exalts himself with chariots and runners, winning support from Joab and Abiathar the priest. Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba remind David of his oath that Solomon would succeed him; David commands Zadok, Nathan, and Benaiah to anoint Solomon at Gihon, riding on David's own mule. The trumpet sounds, the people shout 'Long live King Solomon!' and the celebration's noise terrifies Adonijah's feast guests who scatter. Adonijah fears Solomon and clings to the altar horns; Solomon promises to spare him if he proves worthy.