What is the meaning of 1 Kings 11:17? But Hadad • The little word “But” signals a decided turn in the narrative. Just after “the LORD raised up an adversary against Solomon” (1 Kings 11:14), Scripture narrows its focus to one specific opponent—Hadad the Edomite. • Hadad’s name links him to Edom, the nation descended from Esau (Genesis 36:1, 8). Earlier, David and Joab struck down the Edomites (2 Samuel 8:13-14). Now, against all odds, a survivor of that defeat steps onto the stage, showing how the Lord can sovereignly preserve a future instrument of discipline (1 Kings 11:23-25). Still just a young boy • The verse stresses Hadad’s youth. He was not a seasoned warrior; he was a child, much like Moses placed in the Nile (Exodus 2:3-10) or Joash hidden in the temple (2 Kings 11:2-3). • Humanly speaking, a youngster seems powerless, yet God often works through the weak (1 Corinthians 1:27). By preserving Hadad as a boy, the Lord lays groundwork for events that will ripple into Solomon’s reign. Had fled to Egypt • Egypt repeatedly appears in Scripture as a place of refuge—Abram during famine (Genesis 12:10), Jacob and his family (Genesis 46:3-4), later even Joseph, Mary, and the child Jesus (Matthew 2:13-15). • For Hadad, Egypt provided shelter from Joab’s campaign in Edom. Yet Isaiah warns, “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help” (Isaiah 31:1). While Egypt offers temporary safety, true security rests in the Lord alone. • Hadad’s sojourn in Egypt also mirrors Jeroboam’s later flight (1 Kings 11:40), highlighting Egypt’s ongoing role in Israel’s story. Along with some Edomites • Hadad did not escape alone. A small band of Edomites—likely relatives and loyal retainers—went with him. This echoes the loyal band that gathered around David in the wilderness (1 Samuel 22:2). • Scripture often preserves a remnant (Isaiah 10:20-22). Here the remnant is not Israel but Edom, underscoring God’s meticulous care even over foreign nations (Amos 9:7). Servants of his father • These companions had been “servants of his father,” signaling Hadad’s royal lineage. His father was probably a prince or king within Edom’s ruling house (compare 1 Kings 11:21). • Their loyalty to the boy shows covenant-like devotion reminiscent of the men who followed Saul’s son Ish-bosheth (2 Samuel 2:8-10). Such steadfast service equips Hadad for future leadership when he later “reigns in Edom” (1 Kings 11:21-22). • The verse foreshadows how unfinished business from David’s conquests will return to trouble Solomon, illustrating the principle that unresolved sin or conflict can resurface in the next generation (Numbers 32:23b). summary 1 Kings 11:17 records more than a flight; it depicts God quietly preserving an avenger who will rise against Solomon. Though Hadad was only a child, the Lord safeguarded him, supplied loyal companions, and positioned him in Egypt until the appointed moment. The verse showcases God’s sovereign control over nations and history, reminding us that He can turn even the smallest detail into a future instrument of judgment or blessing. |
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