Old Testament
1 Kings 1:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Because today he went down and sacrificed cattle, fattened calves, and sheep in large numbers. He invited all the king's sons, the army commanders, and Abiathar the priest. Right now they're feasting and drinking with him, saying, 'God save king Adonijah!'
Compare translations
For he is gone down this day, and hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the king’s sons, and the captains of the host, and Abiathar the priest; and, behold, they eat and drink before him, and say, God save king Adonijah.
What 1 Kings 1:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Adonijah is making a bold move to claim the throne. He has organized a grand feast, sacrificing many animals to celebrate his ascension. By inviting the king's sons, military leaders, and a prominent priest, he is trying to gather support and show his power. The atmosphere is festive, with everyone drinking and cheering for him as the new king. This scene highlights the tension and rivalry for leadership in the kingdom. Adonijah's actions are strategic, aiming to solidify his position before anyone can challenge him. It’s a reminder of how ambition can lead to significant consequences, both for the ambitious and those around them. The cheers of 'God save king Adonijah!' reflect the excitement and uncertainty of the moment, as loyalties are tested and the future of the kingdom hangs in the balance. This event sets the stage for the unfolding drama of leadership and conflict in the royal family, emphasizing the importance of choices made in pursuit of power.
How to apply 1 Kings 1:25 to your life
Consider the motivations behind your actions and the impact they have on others. Are you seeking power or recognition at the expense of relationships? Reflect on how your choices can influence those around you and the importance of integrity in leadership. Choose to build others up rather than seeking personal gain alone. Be mindful of the consequences of your ambitions and strive for a balance between personal goals and community well-being.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Solomon Is Made King (1 Kings 1:1–53)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Kings 1:25
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Kings 1:25
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 1:25 mean?
1 Kings 1:25 describes Adonijah's attempt to claim the throne by hosting a lavish feast and inviting key figures to support him. This act symbolizes his ambition and the political maneuvering occurring within the royal family.
What is the significance of the feast in 1 Kings 1:25?
The feast in 1 Kings 1:25 signifies Adonijah's effort to consolidate power and gain loyalty from influential people. By celebrating his ascension with a large gathering, he aims to present himself as the rightful king.
Who is invited to the feast in 1 Kings 1:25?
In 1 Kings 1:25, Adonijah invites all the king's sons, military leaders, and Abiathar the priest to his feast. This gathering is crucial for him to rally support for his claim to the throne.
What does 'God save king Adonijah!' mean in 1 Kings 1:25?
The phrase 'God save king Adonijah!' reflects the celebratory atmosphere of the feast and the support Adonijah is trying to garner. It shows the excitement and uncertainty surrounding his claim to kingship.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.