And he conferred with Joab the son of Zeruiah, and with Abiathar the priest: and they following Adonijah helped him.
David made a fondling of Adonijah, never crossing him, never calling him to account, never reproving him, and the son repaid such indulgence by making a fool of his father. Those who honor their sons more than God, by keeping them not under discipline, forfeit the honor they might expect from them.
AI summary
Commenting on 1 Kings 1:5-10
Joab and Abiathar were the men to recruit: a general with the army's ear, a high priest who could anoint the king. Both had grievances, Joab knew David's hatred over Abner and Amasa; Abiathar saw Zadok rising and his own house declining. Their backing gave Adonijah the credibility to draw a crowd.
AI summary
Adonijah was the oldest son alive, blessed with manners and looks that won the court's favor; but his father's silence in seeing him flaunt the trappings of an heir-presumptive was read as consent. That fatal quiet emboldened him.
AI summary
Commenting on 1 Kings 1:5-31