Hadad, a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, is often associated with themes of patriotism and national identity, particularly in the context of his opposition to the united monarchy of Israel under King Solomon. His account is primarily found in 1 Kings 11:14-22, where he emerges as an adversary to Solomon, driven by a deep-seated loyalty to his native Edom.

Background and Historical Context

Hadad was a member of the royal family of Edom, a nation located to the south of the Kingdom of Judah. During the reign of King David, Edom was subjected to Israelite control following a military campaign that resulted in significant loss of life among the Edomites (2 Samuel 8:13-14). As a young child, Hadad fled to Egypt to escape the massacre orchestrated by Joab, the commander of David's army. This escape was crucial for his survival and future role as a leader.

Life in Egypt

While in Egypt, Hadad found favor with Pharaoh, who provided him with refuge and support. The Egyptian king even gave Hadad his sister-in-law in marriage, further solidifying Hadad's position and influence within the Egyptian court. This alliance with Egypt, a powerful neighbor of Israel, would later play a significant role in Hadad's return to Edom and his opposition to Solomon.

Return to Edom and Opposition to Solomon

Upon hearing of David's death and the subsequent weakening of Israelite control under Solomon, Hadad saw an opportunity to return to his homeland and reclaim his heritage. His return to Edom was not merely a personal quest for power but was deeply rooted in a sense of patriotism and a desire to restore Edom's independence from Israelite domination.

1 Kings 11:14-22 describes how "the LORD raised up against Solomon an adversary, Hadad the Edomite, from the royal line of Edom." This divine intervention suggests that Hadad's actions were part of a larger divine plan to challenge Solomon's rule, which had strayed from the covenantal ideals established by God.

Patriotism and Legacy

Hadad's account is emblematic of the struggle for national identity and autonomy in the ancient Near East. His actions reflect a profound commitment to his people and their right to self-determination. Despite the odds, Hadad's return to Edom and his resistance against a powerful Israelite monarchy underscore the enduring human spirit to fight for one's homeland and heritage.

In the broader biblical narrative, Hadad's opposition to Solomon serves as a reminder of the complexities of political power and the role of divine providence in the affairs of nations. His patriotism, while rooted in a specific historical and cultural context, resonates with the timeless theme of loyalty to one's nation and the pursuit of justice and freedom.1 Kings 11:21,22
And when Hadad heard in Egypt that David slept with his fathers, and that Joab the captain of the host was dead, Hadad said to Pharaoh, Let me depart, that I may go to my own country.
Nave's Topical Index

'More than Conquerors through Him'
... Hadad-ezer is not so easily got rid of. ... from the thought of what Israel's army fought
for,"'Our people, and the cities of our God.' Patriotism and devotion ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/more than conquerors through him.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... Mari had been succeeded by a certain Ben-hadad, also a son of Hazael,* and possibly
this change of kings was accompanied by one of those revolutions which had ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

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