Adonijah's pursuit of the throne begins not with a formal decree, but with a grand public spectacle. To seize power and outpace his rivals, he orchestrates a massive sacrificial feast, aiming to establish facts on the ground and crown himself before any opposition can mount. He slaughters a vast number of sheep, cattle, and livestock that, according to most commentators, are specifically stall-fed and heavily fattened indoors, ensuring a lavish banquet.
The chosen site for this event carries strategic and social significance. He gathers his followers at a specific stone, which some describe as being situated near flowing water [רד״ק, מצודת ציון]. Others suggest it is a massive, smooth stone that naturally draws young men who test their physical strength by attempting to drag it [רש״י, רלב״ג, צאינה וראינה]. An additional view proposes it is a high vantage point used as an observation deck [רש״י]. This stone sits beside a spring. The primary approach among commentators is that this spring is a place for launderers, who wash clothes by vigorously treading on them with their feet. A more unique perspective suggests the area is a flat plain vulnerable to spies, or a bustling hub where people gather to observe others and spread gossip [אהבת יהונתן].
Selecting this exact spot is highly deliberate. Hosting the feast near a water source aligns with the ancient tradition of anointing kings beside water. Furthermore, because it is a lively public space filled with young men showing off their strength and people washing clothes, it serves as the perfect setting for revelry, drawing a large crowd, and publicly announcing his new reign [אברבנאל].
The guest list is carefully curated to include his brothers and the king's servants from the tribe of Judah, specifically targeting those who already support his cause and share his ambitions [אברבנאל, מצודת דוד]. By bonding his allies over a feast of wine, he hopes they will crown him on the spot. To ensure a smooth transition of power, he intentionally excludes Solomon, Nathan the Prophet, and Benaiah. Aware of their strong opposition and knowing Solomon is the designated heir, he eliminates the risk of conflict that could derail his entire plan [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל, צאינה וראינה]. There is also a calculated difference in how the guests are approached. He invites his brothers with the intention of consulting them first about the rebellion itself, whereas the men of Judah are simply brought in to attend the banquet and provide a stamp of approval for the uprising [מלבי״ם].