Introduction:
Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is a central figure in the history of Israel, renowned for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, most notably the First Temple in Jerusalem. His anointing as king marks a significant transition in the biblical narrative, emphasizing divine choice, prophetic fulfillment, and the continuation of the Davidic line.

Biblical Account:
The anointing of Solomon as king is detailed primarily in 1 Kings 1. As King David's health declined, Adonijah, another of David's sons, sought to claim the throne for himself. However, David had promised Bathsheba that Solomon would succeed him. Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba intervened to remind David of his promise, prompting David to take decisive action to ensure Solomon's ascension.

Anointing Ceremony:
David instructed Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada to take Solomon to Gihon, where he was to be anointed as king. The ceremony involved placing Solomon on King David's mule, a symbol of royal authority, and anointing him with oil from the sacred tabernacle. This act was both a religious and political declaration of Solomon's legitimate kingship. The people rejoiced, and the city resounded with celebration, as recorded in 1 Kings 1:39-40 : "Zadok the priest took the horn of oil from the tabernacle and anointed Solomon. Then they blew the ram’s horn, and all the people proclaimed, 'Long live King Solomon!' And all the people went up after him, playing flutes and rejoicing with such a great joy that the earth split apart from the sound."

Divine Approval and Prophetic Fulfillment:
Solomon's anointing was not merely a political maneuver but was seen as the fulfillment of God's promise to David. In 1 Chronicles 22:9-10 , God had declared to David, "But a son will be born to you; he will be a man of rest. I will give him rest from all his enemies on every side, for his name will be Solomon, and I will grant peace and quiet to Israel in his days. He is the one who will build a house for My Name, and he will be My son, and I will be his Father. I will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel forever."

Significance of Solomon's Reign:
Solomon's reign is marked by unprecedented peace and prosperity, fulfilling the divine promise of rest for Israel. His wisdom, granted by God, became legendary, as illustrated in 1 Kings 3:12 : "Behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been anyone like you, nor will there ever be." Solomon's wisdom attracted leaders from around the world, including the Queen of Sheba, who marveled at his insights and the splendor of his court.

Legacy:
Solomon's anointing and subsequent reign are pivotal in the biblical narrative, establishing a model of divinely sanctioned leadership. His construction of the Temple in Jerusalem became the central place of worship for Israel, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Despite his later years being marred by idolatry and political strife, Solomon's early reign remains a testament to God's faithfulness to His promises and the importance of wisdom and obedience in leadership.