Topical Bible: Kings: Ceremonies at Inauguration of Enthroning

◄ Kings: Ceremonies at Inauguration of Enthroning ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The inauguration and enthronement of kings in ancient Israel were significant events marked by a series of ceremonial acts that underscored the divine appointment and authority of the monarch. These ceremonies were deeply rooted in the religious and cultural traditions of the Israelites, reflecting their covenant relationship with God and the theocratic nature of their society.

Anointing with Oil

One of the central elements of the enthronement ceremony was the anointing of the king with oil. This act symbolized the consecration of the king to his office and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit for his role as leader. The anointing oil, often a special blend as described in Exodus 30:22-25, was poured over the head of the king by a prophet or priest. This ritual is vividly illustrated in the anointing of Saul by Samuel: "Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?'" (1 Samuel 10:1). Similarly, David was anointed by Samuel, signifying God's choice and blessing (1 Samuel 16:13).

Proclamation and Acclamation

Following the anointing, the new king was publicly proclaimed and acclaimed by the people. This public declaration was essential for legitimizing the king's rule and ensuring the support of the populace. The people would shout, "Long live the king!" as a sign of their acceptance and allegiance. This is seen in the account of Solomon's enthronement: "Then they blew the trumpet, and all the people proclaimed, 'Long live King Solomon!'" (1 Kings 1:39).

Coronation and Presentation of Symbols

The coronation involved the presentation of royal symbols, such as a crown and a scepter, which represented the king's authority and responsibility. The crown was a visible sign of the king's status and his role as God's appointed ruler. In some instances, the king was also given a copy of the Law, emphasizing his duty to govern according to God's commandments. This is reflected in the instructions given in Deuteronomy 17:18-20, where the king is to write for himself a copy of the law and read it all the days of his life.

Covenant Renewal and Sacrifices

The enthronement ceremony often included a covenant renewal, where the king and the people reaffirmed their commitment to the covenant with God. This was accompanied by sacrifices and offerings, seeking God's favor and blessing on the new reign. The account of Joash's enthronement highlights this aspect: "Jehoiada made a covenant between the LORD and the king and people that they would be the LORD’s people, and between the king and the people" (2 Kings 11:17).

Feasting and Celebration

The inauguration of a king was a time of national celebration, marked by feasting and rejoicing. The people gathered to celebrate the new reign, expressing their joy and hope for a prosperous future under the new king's leadership. The festivities served to unify the nation and strengthen the bond between the king and his subjects.

These ceremonies at the inauguration of enthroning a king in Israel were not merely political events but were deeply spiritual, reflecting the belief that the king was God's chosen instrument to lead His people. The rituals underscored the king's responsibility to rule in accordance with divine law and to serve as a shepherd to the nation, guiding them in faithfulness to the LORD.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 1:35,46
Then you shall come up after him, that he may come and sit on my throne; for he shall be king in my stead: and I have appointed him to be ruler over Israel and over Judah.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 11:19
And he took the rulers over hundreds, and the captains, and the guard, and all the people of the land; and they brought down the king from the house of the LORD, and came by the way of the gate of the guard to the king's house. And he sat on the throne of the kings.
Torrey's Topical Textbook