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Solomon
Previously on the Chosen People. Adonijah poured himself wine, his tone casual as he took his seat.
Adonijah
The king is dying. No one says it aloud, but we all know it's time we prepare.
Solomon
Has the king named you as heir?
Adonijah
No. No. But he will. I am his first surviving son. And the strongest. A throne is mine by right and capability. Screw right. This is David we're talking about.
Solomon
He leads with the heart.
Adonijah
Solomon has had him wrapped around his little finger since birth.
Bathsheba
Adonijah has begun his campaign.
Nathan
He's gathered Job and Abiathar to his side. If Adonijah takes the throne, you and your son will not live to see the dawn of his reign.
Solomon
He will not risk Solomon's claims, nor yours.
Nathan
My bones may be brittle, but my word has not shattered. As the Lord lives, who delivered me from the jaws of lions and the.
Adonijah
Grip of giants, Solomon shall reign after me.
Nathan
He shall rule in my stead.
Solomon
Solomon.
Adonijah
How could this be? You tried, lad, and failed. Most people do when they face David. Joab. Joab, wait. He'll kill me. I know it. You have to go to Solomon and to tell him. I throw myself at his mercy. Go. Go now. Hurry. Tell the king I beg. I beg for my life. Get off me. Send your messenger. I'm going home. I'll accept whatever judgment comes my way.
Solomon
Like a man.
Adonijah
So should you.
Solomon
This is an I Heart podcast.
Ryan Seacrest
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Yael Eckstein
Shalom, my friends. From here in the holy land of Israel, I'm Yael Eckstein with International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. And welcome to the Chosen People. Each day we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible. Stories filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth that we are all chosen for something great. So take a moment today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful for these stories, we would love it if you left us a review. I read every single one of them. And if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic life saving work of the Fellowship, you can visit ifcj.org let's begin.
Ahishar
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Solomon
The crown upon Solomon's head felt twice as heavy today as it had at his first hurried coronation. King David had been buried and it was now up to Solomon to carry on his legacy and exact his justice. David had marked certain men for death, betrayers, mockers of Israel and enemies of the throne. They were surely out there plotting against him. A crown and coronation were no guarantee of power. Solomon knew there were people who would seek to take advantage of his youth and an experience, but he was determined to show Israel that he was more than a spoiled prince with a famous father. He paced the length of his private quarters and put at the expansive window beyond the palace walls. He could already imagine scaffolding lining the city like a skeleton of what could be. Soon, workers would labor on the great projects that would make Jerusalem the envy of the world. Solomon longed to get to work not as a ruler, but as a builder but power came first. Stability came first. Before he could build, he had to tear out the rot. A knock on the door interrupted Solomon's brooding thoughts. Solomon's head servant, Ahishar, entered. He was a kind, paternal sort and had recently entered Solomon's household.
Nathan
Enter.
Solomon
Your Majesty, the spies have followed Prince Adonijah. He is here within the palace. He is begging an audience with your mother. Solomon raised his eyebrows at that. Should I alert the guards, your Majesty? Should they question him?
Nathan
No. Let us see what trap he's laying first.
Solomon
Solomon could see the concern that remained in the old servant's eyes. Solomon sighed and shook his head.
Nathan
My mother's private guard should be more than sufficient if he means to attack. But that's not Adonaij's style. He's an appeaser, a politician. He relies on his ability to charm others to achieve his aims. Her life is not in immediate danger. Come. Tell your men to ready the throne room and summon the king's court. I want all the elders there. After Adonijah visits my mother, we will summon him to call.
Solomon
Yes, you, Majesty. As you say. Solomon turned and gripped the smooth stone of the window overlooking the courtyard gardens below. He loved the garden. It was a lush oasis, protected and hidden away from the chaos and clamor of the busy streets beyond the palace walls. His young wife, Neymar, giggled with the nursemaid as they coaxed Baby Rehoboam to take more than three toddling steps in a row before collapsing in a fit of laughter. Solomon smiled at the domesticity of it all. It wasn't a marriage of love. Neymar was an arranged marriage for politics and property. But love, Solomon supposed, was like a garden. It could be tended to. The kingdom was like a garden as well, and Solomon knew there were weeds that needed to be plucked. Solomon did not long for violence, but he was not weak, and he would do what was necessary for a thriving kingdom bath. Sheba weighed the risk and possible outcomes in her mind as she nervously chewed the tip of her fingernail. The last time she had seen Adonijah was right after his failed coup. If he had succeeded that day, Adonijah would have murdered her Solomon, Nehemiah, and Baby Rehoboam without a second thought.
Ahishar
My lady, Prince Adonijah is here requesting entrance. Should I show him in?
Solomon
The servant's voice made Bathsheba jump. She shook her head, realizing how lost in thought she was. It was time to decide. But it never hurts to err on the side of caution.
Bathsheba
Oh, not yet. Ask him if he comes peacefully.
Solomon
First, the servant nodded and hurried away. Bathsheba sighed. She supposed his answer would not matter much if his designs were set on murder, but she had to admit she was intrigued. Perhaps the recent death of David had softened Adonijah's heart. Perhaps he wanted to consult her on how best to approach King Solomon. Bathsheba started again as the servant Re entered her formal receiving room and inclined her head as she spoke. Gibora. I did as you asked, the prince said.
Ahishar
He came peacefully.
Solomon
He wishes to speak with you.
Bathsheba
Very well. Show him in.
Solomon
The servant bowed once more before slipping silently from the room. Bathsheba lifted her chin, straightened her spine, and drew back her shoulders. The queen stood confidently, framed against the ivory inlaid frescoes and the sprawling windows behind her, offering sweeping views of the city below. Bathsheba was the Gerbera, the great lady. She had always been the favored wife of the king, and that alone carried weight. But now she was the queen mother. Adonijah entered the room flanked by guards. He bowed reverently before her.
Bathsheba
Prince Adonijah, you asked to have a word. You stand before me. What is it that you want?
Solomon
Her eyes narrowed as she studied the prince. Adonijah was just as handsome as Absalom was tall, tanned, lean, athletic build, broad shoulders, broader smile that oozed irresistible charisma. Bathsheba had always assumed, as most people did, that he was more looks than substance. But that was before the power grab on his father's deathbed. Though he towered over Bathsheba, Adonijah stooped and kept his head inclined respectfully.
Adonijah
Gibira, thank you for seeing me. I know when I saw you last, I was not at my best.
Bathsheba
The guards had to drag you from claiming sanctuary in the tabernacle to stand before my son like a.
Solomon
The beautiful man's smile cracked, but he plowed forward.
Adonijah
Come now, Kibira. Can you blame me for assuming I was going to be made king? I am the eldest of David's remaining sons. I was simply accepting the mantle Israel expected of me.
Bathsheba
Yes, you were humbly accepting the role. The reluctant prince. How noble.
Adonijah
No, no, no. I. I would be lying if I said I didn't want the throne. Be that as it may, I know when I've been beaten. The Lord has clearly given it to Solomon. My brother has graciously spared my life and sent me home, and I plan to leave peacefully.
Bathsheba
Yet here you remain in my presence. Why?
Adonijah
I have one. One request to make. I beg you not to turn me down, for it is a matter of the heart.
Solomon
Bathsheba Blinked in surprise. She wasn't sure what Adonijah had in mind, but she never guessed it would be a matter of the heart. Did the boy have a heart? Surely not like David's. But Bathsheba wasn't sure anyone would, including Solomon. The great lady leaned forward in her seat. She could not deny that she was intrigued.
Bathsheba
Go on. Tell me your request.
Adonijah
I must confess, a young woman has captured my heart. I long to be with her and take her as my wife. I will retire to my home. But I beg you, Gabeira, make me the happiest man in Jerusalem by allowing me to claim my bride.
Bathsheba
Well, that is very romantic and domestic of you, Adonijah, and noble even to seek my blessing. But I do not understand. I have no daughters to give you. Why are you seeking my permission?
Adonijah
Well, here is the rub, Gebira. She belongs to the household of our late King David.
Bathsheba
You seek to marry a member of King David's harem?
Adonijah
Please, Gabeer, forgive me. I presume too much. All I seek is a wife, not an office or a throne. That is all I want. Please speak to King Solomon. Since he won't turn you down, let him give me Abishek the Shunammite as a wife.
Bathsheba
Abishek, the king's nurse?
Solomon
Bathsheba sucked in her breath sharply. This was a dangerous request. In the eyes of Israel, Abishag was a member of David's harem, but truly she was only his caretaker in old age. With David gone, what would be the harm in allowing such a girl to be married into a prominent family? Bathsheba did not know that Abishag was precious to Solomon.
Adonijah
I. I know it is an impossible dream, but I would. I would not be able to live with myself if I did not ask. Here before you, you have the rare opportunity to have your hand in a match that is purely born out of love. No. Politics are agendas, and I would forever be in your debt. My bride and I would retreat to our estate and you would never see us in court again. I swear it.
Solomon
Bathsheba considered the man before her, searching his eyes for deception or subterfuge. She could not deny she was moved by his pleadings. He had the honest appearance of a humble and lovesick young man. And it did seem a shame to deny the poor girl a life hidden away and denied a husband. Bathsheba saw a bit of herself in Abishag. Bathsheba had risen from far higher and fared far better than her wildest expectations. Even despite all the pain and heartache in the wake of Uriah's death. Who was she to deny another young woman the same opportunity? And could this favor cement peace between Solomon and Adonijah? Could she hope for such a thing? Her wits told her to grant the request, but her guts said otherwise.
Bathsheba
If I do this for you, you swear that you will not harm my family. Will you honor your word?
Adonijah
I swear it. Please, Kabira. My future happiness is in your hands.
Solomon
The throne room was filled with elders and the king's council. Summoned by Solomon, they all rose with Solomon as Bathsheba entered the throne room. The sound of benches scraping against stone echoed through the chamber as the court followed his lead. Rising in unison, the king bowed deeply to her, an honor befitting her station. And the entire assembly did the same. When Solomon straightened, he caught the flicker of confusion in Bathsheba's eyes as she took in the gathered court. Behind Solomon were Benaiah, Jashabim, soldier Zadok, and Nathan, key figures in David's inner circle, the men who had helped secure Solomon's throne. Solomon sensed Bathsheba's unease at all the formality.
Nathan
Gibira. Mother. It is good to see you. Come and sit.
Solomon
Solomon placed a throne to his right and gestured for her to take her place at his side. Adonijah was already seated amongst the throng, having been swept up and ushered into court. Solomon's face was a practiced mask of passive indifference. But inwardly he was calculating, always calculating.
Bathsheba
Your Majesty.
Solomon
My son.
Bathsheba
It is good to see you.
Nathan
Tell me, Mother, what's on your mind?
Bathsheba
I have one small request of you.
Solomon
Solomon's tongue rolled behind his pursed lips. His jaw clenched. He knew that whatever was about to come out of Bathsheba's mouth would be on behalf of Adonijah. The thought of him manipulating his mother made his blood boil. Luckily, Solomon was slower to anger than his father was. He was methodical, thoughtful, surgical.
Bathsheba
My son, let Abishag the Shunammite be given to your brother Adonijah as a wife. He loves her. And I have surmised that only love compels him, nothing more. I would consider this a peace treaty between the sons of David so our kingdom can heal and unite under your rule.
Solomon
Solomon's anger stalled at the earnest heart, hope in his mother's eyes. It seemed that a part of her wanted to believe Adonijah, believe in true love, happy endings and reconciliation. David may have been swayed by such passions, but Solomon was a man of logic. The man who had been spared from death once was now toying with it. This was no changed Heart. A pardoned man does not ask for more. No. This was a bid for power. The kindling of a rebellion had been rekindled. Solomon's eyes flickered to Adonijah. For the briefest of moments, Solomon saw it. A slight twitch of the lips. Solomon could see right through him.
Nathan
Is this true, Adonai?
Solomon
Adonijah bowed his head, feigning reverence.
Adonijah
My love burns bright, Solomon. All I ask is you allow me to retreat to my estate and grow old with Abishag.
Solomon
Solomon's eyes locked with his brother. Somehow Adonijah knew about Solomon's love for Abishagami. This was a trap, backing Solomon into a corner where he would have to deny Bathsheba's request and in so doing, reveal his own treason against David. And if Solomon granted the request, Adonijah would have more claim to the throne by marrying one of David's concubines. It was a clever plan, but not clever enough. Solomon didn't need to yield or confess. Solomon stood abruptly and addressed the court. He found Adonijah in the crowd and watched his face fall as he raised his hand to accuse him.
Nathan
He has requested Abishag the Shunammite for a bride. A member of the king's harem. Another feather in your cap as you parade around Judea bribing for another bid at the throne.
Solomon
The entire room's eyes locked on Adonijah. He shrank back, but there was nowhere to hide.
Nathan
My great father David, of blessed memory, loved the law of the Lord. He savored it, meditated on it day and night. He said it was a lamp unto his feet and a light onto his path. Our history. Victory is our light. We must learn from it or be doomed to darkness. Was it not Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob, who tried to seize power by taking Jacob's concubine? I tell you, such sins brought a curse upon the children of Reuben. Those of us of Judah know this well. Judah replaced Reuben as the favored heir of Jacob's blessing.
Solomon
So Solomon pointed to Adonijah.
Nathan
Is Abishag this generation's Belial?
Adonijah
I speak from the heart, good king, out of love.
Nathan
Love, you say? Tell me, then, what's the name of Abishag's grandfather? She's the woman you love. Surely you know the answer.
Adonijah
I.
Nathan
And her brothers, they're both married. What are their wives? Names?
Adonijah
This.
Solomon
This is.
Adonijah
This is foolish. It's. I am.
Nathan
You do not stand in a court of fools, Adonijah. I see your intentions. To have a member of the king's harem would be One step closer to the throne. Another claim alongside being the firstborn. You're stacking dead for another player. Do you do. Blast it.
Adonijah
You dare lecture me when you.
Nathan
Enough.
Solomon
Solomon's guards, led by Benaiah, sprang forward and hauled Adonijah before Solomon's throne. His eyes rolled back in terror and he thrashed, sobbing in shock. But it did nothing to loosen the guards iron grip. Bathsheba's hands covered her face in horror at the revealed deception before her son. Sputtering, Adonijah found his words at last.
Adonijah
Mercy. Mercy, Solomon. As you say, we are brothers. I. I have only. I've only ever sought peace. Give. Give me a chance to prove my loyalty.
Nathan
Brother, you had a chance. Did I not tell you that if you made another play, it would end with your death? Brother, this was not a clever deception. But he was too clever for you alone.
Solomon
No.
Nathan
I recognize the hands of the same conspirators who once sought to place you on the throne. And I will deal with that next. O Abiathar, the priest, and Joab, son of Zeruah. I'm coming for them now. Before all these witnesses, I swear this oath before the Lord. May God punish me and do so severely. If Adonijah has not made this request at the cost of his life. And now, as the Lord lives, the one who established me seated me on the throne of my father David. Adonijah will be put to death today.
Solomon
Solomon's words were still echoing off the walls of the chamber as Benaiah's sword flashed and swung high and swiftly. Adonijah's still contorted face fell to the stone floor with a dull thunk. Seconds after it fell, Solomon exhaled slowly, his gaze sweeping the court, searching for the next face he would summon forward. This was not over. The conspirators were not yet fully dealt with. Somewhere in the city, Abiathar and Joab were running out of places to hide. For one there would be mercy. For the other, there would be none. The time for leniency was over. Solomon would cut out the rot of rebellion before it could take hold again and poison another rain of Israel's kings. The air in the chamber had changed. No one spoke. No one moved. Even the distant torches on the stone walls flickered as if dimmed by the weight of the moment. Then Solomon lifted his head.
Nathan
Now let us deal with the rest of them.
Ahishar
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Yael Eckstein
Tales if your faith has been kindled by this podcast and it has affected your life, we'd love it if you left a review. We read them and me personally, I cherish them. As you venture forth boldly and faithfully, I leave you with the biblical Blessing from Numbers 6. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you. May he be gracious to you. May the Lord turn His face towards you and give you peace.
Nathan
Amen.
Solomon
You can listen to the Chosen People with Y Eckstein ad free by downloading and subscribing to ThePray.com app today. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Catena, Max Bard, Zach Shellevaga and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People with Yael Eckstein. Edited by Alberto Avila Narrated by Paul Coltofianu Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith Written by Aaron Salvato Bree, Rosalie and Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin Van Etten, Caleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller and the team at International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. You can hear more Pray.com productions on the Pray.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the chosen people with Y X Team, please rate and leave a review.
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Solomon
This is an iHeart podcast.
The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein Episode: "Solomon’s Retribution" Release Date: August 4, 2025
In this gripping episode of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, listeners are transported into the tumultuous period following King David's death, focusing on the intricate power dynamics and personal struggles that define Solomon's early reign. Titled "Solomon’s Retribution," the episode delves into themes of ambition, loyalty, and justice, offering a vivid portrayal of biblical narratives brought to life with passion and insight.
As Solomon assumes the throne after King David's death, he grapples with the immense responsibility entrusted to him. Unlike his siblings, Solomon is portrayed as a leader who operates with wisdom and a heart attuned to God's commandments. However, his coronation is shadowed by underlying tensions and latent threats from those who may challenge his authority.
"He leads with the heart." (00:31)
Solomon is acutely aware that a crown is not merely a symbol of power but a mantle that requires both strength and discernment. His determination to preserve his father's legacy and ensure a stable kingdom sets the stage for the unfolding drama.
Prince Adonijah, Solomon's elder brother, emerges as a central figure in the episode. Initially appearing as someone attempting to secure his position, Adonijah's actions hint at deeper ambitions that threaten Solomon's fledgling rule.
"A throne is mine by right and capability. Screw right. This is David we're talking about." (00:16–00:31)
Adonijah's informal demeanor masks his strategic maneuvers within the palace, gathering allies like Job and Abiathar to bolster his claim. His interactions with Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, further illustrate his attempt to legitimize his position through seemingly benign requests.
Bathsheba, the queen mother and Solomon's chief advisor, plays a pivotal role in mediating between Solomon and Adonijah. Her wisdom and deep understanding of the family's dynamics make her a crucial mediator in the escalating tension within the palace.
"Prince Adonijah, you asked to have a word. You stand before me. What is it that you want?" (10:56)
Bathsheba's handling of Adonijah's request to marry Abishag is both diplomatic and shrewd. She navigates the delicate balance between appeasing her son, Solomon, and addressing Adonijah's underlying motives.
Adonijah's request to marry Abishag, a member of King David's inner circle, initially appears as a personal plea. However, Bathsheba discerns that this gesture is a strategic move to strengthen Adonijah's claim to the throne.
"My bride and I would retreat to our estate and you would never see us in court again. I swear it." (12:00–14:21)
Bathsheba presents this request to Solomon, believing it could serve as a peace treaty between the brothers. However, Solomon remains skeptical, recognizing the deeper implications of Adonijah's intentions.
"This was a bid for power. The kindling of a rebellion had been rekindled." (18:52–19:00)
Nathan, a trusted advisor, intensifies the scrutiny by questioning the authenticity of Adonijah's motives, ultimately exposing the deceit behind the marriage proposal.
"Tell me, then, what's the name of Abishag's grandfather?" (22:00)
Upon uncovering Adonijah's true intentions, Solomon acts decisively to quash the emerging threat. The episode reaches its climax as Adonijah is publicly exposed and subsequently executed for his treasonous actions.
"Adonijah will be put to death today." (23:38–23:56)
This decisive action not only eliminates the immediate threat but also sends a clear message to the kingdom about the consequences of betrayal and rebellion. Solomon's methodical approach underscores his commitment to justice and stability within his reign.
While Adonijah's downfall marks a significant victory for Solomon, the episode hints at lingering conspiracies involving other key figures like Abiathar and Joab. This sets the stage for future conflicts, emphasizing that Solomon's path to a peaceful and prosperous kingdom is fraught with ongoing challenges.
"I recognize the hands of the same conspirators who once sought to place you on the throne." (23:55)
Solomon's resolve to eradicate the remnants of rebellion illustrates his dedication to safeguarding his throne and ensuring the longevity of his rule.
"Solomon’s Retribution" masterfully intertwines historical narrative with biblical wisdom, offering listeners a profound exploration of leadership, loyalty, and the complexities of familial relationships within the context of ancient Israel. Through vivid storytelling and insightful dialogue, Yael Eckstein brings to life the intricate dance of power and faith that defines Solomon's early reign, providing timeless lessons that resonate with modern audiences.
Solomon on Leadership:
"He leads with the heart." (00:31)
Adonijah’s Ambition:
"A throne is mine by right and capability. Screw right. This is David we're talking about." (00:16–00:31)
Bathsheba’s Mediation:
"Prince Adonijah, you asked to have a word. You stand before me. What is it that you want?" (10:56)
Nathan Exposing Deception:
"Tell me, then, what's the name of Abishag's grandfather?" (22:00)
Solomon’s Judgement:
"Adonijah will be put to death today." (23:38–23:56)
Wisdom in Leadership: Solomon exemplifies the importance of wisdom and discernment in leadership, balancing compassion with the necessity of maintaining order.
Ambition and Power: Adonijah's actions highlight how personal ambition can threaten established leadership, necessitating careful navigation by those in power.
Role of Mediation: Bathsheba's role underscores the value of wise counsel and mediation in resolving conflicts within a leadership structure.
Justice and Stability: The episode reinforces the theme that true stability in a kingdom requires both justice and the elimination of threats to peace.
This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of "Solomon’s Retribution," providing a comprehensive overview for those unfamiliar with the episode while preserving the depth and richness of the original narrative.