מלכים א, פרק י״א, פסוק י״ז

The survival of a royal bloodline often depends on the swift and secret actions of loyal subjects during times of crisis. When the Edomite crown prince faced grave danger, a daring escape was orchestrated to ensure his safety in Egypt.

At the time of the crisis, the prince, Hadad, was only a young boy, completely dependent on others for his survival. A dedicated group of Edomite men, who had served his father, took it upon themselves to actively smuggle the child out of the territory [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. These loyal servants formed the core of what would become his royal entourage.

As the group traveled toward Egypt, their numbers swelled. Many other individuals joined the fleeing prince along the way. By the time the company finally arrived at their destination, the young boy was surrounded by a massive following. Because of this impressive entourage, Pharaoh viewed Hadad not merely as a young refugee, but as a prominent minister and a man of great importance. Recognizing this perceived stature, the Egyptian king welcomed him with high honors, granting him an elevated status, a private home, and an estate of land [מלבי״ם].