What is the meaning of 1 Kings 11:21? When Hadad heard in Egypt “Hadad the Edomite” had fled to Egypt years earlier when Joab struck down every male in Edom (1 Kings 11:14–17). • Egypt often became a temporary refuge for those escaping danger (Genesis 12:10; 1 Kings 2:40; Matthew 2:13). • During his sojourn, Hadad received favor from Pharaoh, marrying into the royal family (1 Kings 11:19). • Hearing news from home shows his heart never left Edom; God was preparing to use that longing as part of the judgment announced against Solomon (1 Kings 11:11–14). that David had rested with his fathers The phrase “rested with his fathers” records David’s literal death and burial (1 Kings 2:10). • David’s passing removed the warrior-king who had subdued Edom (2 Samuel 8:13–14). • Scripture repeatedly notes that death does not erase covenant promises; yet earthly power structures change (Acts 13:36; 2 Samuel 7:12). • For Hadad, David’s absence signals an opportunity to reclaim independence, showing how God can accomplish His purposes even through the ambitions of unbelieving nations. and that Joab, the commander of the army, was dead Joab’s death at the hands of Benaiah (1 Kings 2:28–34) further alters the balance of power. • Joab had been the chief architect of Edom’s defeat (1 Kings 11:15–16), so his removal eliminates the field general most feared by Hadad. • The combined loss of David and Joab fulfills Ecclesiastes 3:1–3: seasons change, leaders fade, and God alone remains sovereign. • These events also echo Numbers 32:23—sin brings consequence; Solomon’s drift into idolatry opens the door for adversaries. he said to Pharaoh, “Let me go, that I may return to my own country.” • Hadad respectfully requests release, displaying proper protocol yet unwavering resolve (compare Nehemiah 2:5). • Pharaoh’s willingness to grant permission (1 Kings 11:22) shows God stirring hearts of kings (Proverbs 21:1). • Hadad’s return inaugurates a long-term annoyance for Solomon (1 Kings 11:25). What looks like personal ambition is, in fact, divine discipline, paralleling Judges 2:14 when the LORD “handed them over to plunderers.” • The episode reminds us that no earthly alliance substitutes for faithfulness to God; Solomon’s Egyptian marriage alliance (1 Kings 3:1) cannot shield him from foes arising out of the same land. summary 1 Kings 11:21 records the moment Hadad learns that the two men who once crushed Edom—David and Joab—are gone. Interpreting the news as God-given opportunity, he seeks Pharaoh’s blessing to return and oppose Solomon. The verse highlights God’s absolute sovereignty: while Solomon compromises with idols, the LORD raises an external adversary to chasten him. Leadership changes, alliances shift, but God’s Word stands certain, accomplishing exactly what He declares. |
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