מלכים א, פרק א׳, פסוק י׳

As Adonijah organizes a grand feast to declare himself king, he makes a deliberate political calculation to exclude key figures from the royal court, as well as his own brother. The primary approach among commentators is that Adonijah avoids inviting these individuals because he knows they do not support him and remain deeply loyal to Solomon. Bringing his opponents to the event could disrupt his plans, spark immediate resistance, and confuse the guests who have already agreed to support his claim to the throne [רלב״ג, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Solomon is specifically left out because Adonijah recognizes him as his primary rival. A prophecy has already been given designating Solomon as the true heir to the kingdom [רש״י, רלב״ג, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. For this exact reason, Nathan the Prophet is also excluded, as he is the very person who delivered the prophecy to David stating that Solomon would succeed him [רלב״ג].

Despite Adonijah's careful planning, his choice of guests ultimately exposes the weakness of his rebellion. By failing to invite Solomon and King David's closest confidants, such as Benaiah son of Jehoiada and Nathan the Prophet, Adonijah proves to the public that his attempt to seize the crown is happening without David's knowledge or consent. Had the king approved of this move, his inner circle would undoubtedly be present. Ultimately, the deliberate exclusion of these loyal figures becomes the very catalyst that drives Nathan the Prophet to act. Realizing what is happening, Nathan approaches Bathsheba to secure the throne for Solomon and ensure his prophecy is fulfilled [אלשיך].