Haggith is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily recognized as one of King David's wives and the mother of Adonijah. Her name, Haggith, is derived from the Hebrew word meaning "festive" or "rejoicing." Although the Bible provides limited information about her personal life, her role as the mother of Adonijah places her in the context of significant events in the history of Israel's monarchy.

Biblical References:

Haggith is first introduced in the context of King David's family. In 2 Samuel 3:2-5, the sons born to David in Hebron are listed, and Adonijah is mentioned as the fourth son, born to Haggith: "These are the sons who were born to David in Hebron: The firstborn was Amnon by Ahinoam of Jezreel; the second was Chileab by Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel; the third was Absalom the son of Maacah, the daughter of King Talmai of Geshur; the fourth was Adonijah the son of Haggith; the fifth was Shephatiah the son of Abital; and the sixth was Ithream by David’s wife Eglah. These were born to David in Hebron" .

Haggith's significance is primarily tied to her son Adonijah, who plays a crucial role in the succession narrative of King David's throne. As David's health declined, Adonijah, being the eldest surviving son, declared himself king. This event is detailed in 1 Kings 1:5-6: "At that time Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith, exalted himself, saying, 'I will be king!' So he prepared chariots, cavalry, and fifty men to run ahead of him. (His father had never once reprimanded him by saying, 'Why do you act this way?' He was also very handsome, born next after Absalom.)" .

Adonijah's self-exaltation and subsequent attempt to seize the throne were thwarted by the actions of the prophet Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, who intervened to ensure Solomon's anointing as king, as per David's earlier promise. This narrative underscores the political intrigue and familial dynamics within David's household, with Haggith's son at the center of the conflict.

Historical and Theological Context:

Haggith's mention in the biblical text, though brief, is significant in understanding the complexities of David's family and the challenges of royal succession in ancient Israel. The narrative of Adonijah's rebellion highlights the themes of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's promises, as Solomon's eventual ascension to the throne aligns with God's covenantal plan for David's lineage.

The account of Haggith and her son also reflects the broader cultural and historical practices of polygamy and the role of royal women in the ancient Near East. As one of David's wives, Haggith would have been part of a complex family structure, where alliances and rivalries among the king's wives and their children could significantly impact the political landscape.

Legacy:

While Haggith herself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative beyond her identity as Adonijah's mother, her legacy is intertwined with the account of David's dynasty and the establishment of Solomon's reign. Her account serves as a reminder of the intricate human relationships and divine orchestration that characterize the biblical history of Israel's monarchy.2 Samuel 3:4
And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;
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1 Kings 1:5,11
Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him.
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1 Kings 2:13
And Adonijah the son of Haggith came to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon. And she said, Come you peaceably? And he said, Peaceably.
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1 Chronicles 3:2
The third, Absalom the son of Maachah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur: the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith:
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That David Made Great Preparations for the House of God; and That ...
... was a beautiful young man, and tall, born to him of Haggith his wife. ... was told by
Nathan the prophet to Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, that Adonijah was king ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 14 that david made.htm

Adonijah
... was a very goodly man, and his mother bare him ... We know very little of Haggith, but
she was probably a ... from his father we may assume that Adonijah inherited a ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/adonijah.htm

How David Reigned Over one Tribe at Hebron While the Son Of
... But Joab, whose father was Suri, and his mother Zeruiah, David's sister ... Talmai, king
of Geshur; the fourth he named Adonijah, by his wife Haggith; the fifth ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 1 how david reigned.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... death, his people were awaiting the messenger who should bring the news of his victory;
"through the window she looked forth and cried"the mother of Sisera ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

How many wives did King David have? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Adonijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who are the sons of David mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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