מלכים א, פרק א׳, פסוק מ״ז

The arrival of the royal servants to bless David for crowning Solomon serves as a clear confirmation of the king's will. Their presence highlights that the transition of power is happening with David's full knowledge and approval. This stands in sharp contrast to the actions of Joab and Abiathar, who acted independently in their attempt to make Adonijah king [מלבי״ם].

The blessing offered by the servants unfolds in two distinct parts. First, they express their hope that God will elevate Solomon's reputation even beyond David's, with his name becoming renowned for his good deeds and profound wisdom. Second, they wish for Solomon's kingdom to expand and his rule to become even greater than his father's. This expanded authority is seen as the natural and fitting progression for a royal heir [מלבי״ם].

Wishing for a son to surpass his father might seem like an insult to the reigning king, but human nature works differently. While a person may easily feel jealous of another's success, a father is never envious of the achievements of his own son or student. Because of this bond, David is able to experience pure joy at the prospect of Solomon surpassing his own legacy [רד״ק].

Reacting to these wishes, the elderly king bows down while resting on his bed. Commentators offer two ways to understand this physical gesture. The primary approach among commentators is that David is bowing in gratitude to God, echoing the actions of the patriarch Jacob, who bowed on his bed in his final days. Alternatively, the gesture is directed at the servants themselves, serving as a sign of deep appreciation and thanks for their blessings [ביאור שטיינזלץ].