Adonijah, whose name means "my Lord is Yahweh," was the fourth son of King David, born to Haggith. He is most prominently known for his attempt to usurp the throne of Israel during the final days of David's reign. Adonijah's account is primarily found in 1 Kings 1-2.

Adonijah, described as handsome and ambitious, sought to establish himself as king, declaring, "I will be king" (1 Kings 1:5). He gathered support from key figures, including Joab, the commander of the army, and Abiathar the priest. However, he did not secure the backing of Nathan the prophet, Benaiah, or the mighty men loyal to David, nor did he gain the support of Solomon, David's chosen successor.

Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, informed King David of Adonijah's actions. In response, David reaffirmed Solomon as his successor, instructing Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah to anoint Solomon as king. Solomon was anointed at Gihon, and the people rejoiced, causing Adonijah's supporters to disperse in fear.

After Solomon's ascension, Adonijah sought mercy from Solomon, who initially spared his life. However, Adonijah later requested to marry Abishag, David's former concubine, a move interpreted as another attempt to claim the throne. Solomon, perceiving this as a threat, ordered Adonijah's execution (1 Kings 2:13-25).

Bigvai

Bigvai is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is identified as one of the leaders who returned from the Babylonian exile with Zerubbabel. Bigvai's name appears in the lists of returnees in Ezra and Nehemiah.

In Ezra 2:2 and Nehemiah 7:7, Bigvai is listed among the leaders who accompanied Zerubbabel back to Jerusalem. The descendants of Bigvai are noted in Ezra 2:14 and Nehemiah 7:19, where 2,056 of his descendants are recorded as returning exiles. This indicates that Bigvai was a significant leader with a substantial following.

Additionally, Bigvai is mentioned in Ezra 8:14 as one of the family heads who returned with Ezra during a later wave of exiles. This highlights his continued influence and leadership among the returning Israelites.

Adin

Adin is another figure associated with the return from the Babylonian exile. The name Adin appears in the genealogical records of those who returned to Jerusalem and Judah.

In Ezra 2:15 and Nehemiah 7:20, the descendants of Adin are listed among the exiles who returned with Zerubbabel. The records indicate that 454 descendants of Adin returned, suggesting that Adin was a recognized family head with a notable lineage.

Adin is also mentioned in Ezra 8:6, where Ebed, a descendant of Adin, is listed among those who returned with Ezra. This further underscores the family's continued presence and participation in the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple.

The inclusion of Adin's descendants in these records highlights the importance of family lineage and the fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people to their land.