מלכים א, פרק ב׳, פסוק כ״ג

King Solomon seals the fate of his brother, Adonijah, recognizing that a seemingly innocent request is actually a direct threat to the kingdom. He issues a severe oath, invoking God to bring punishment upon himself if he fails to act. The primary approach among commentators is that this phrasing functions as a solemn vow, accepting divine retribution if the spoken intent is not carried out [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The style of the oath acts as a veiled threat, where the exact punishment is not explicitly detailed but left hanging ominously in the air [מצודת דוד]. The cost of the request is absolute; Adonijah will pay for his ambition with his own life [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Solomon's harsh reaction stems from a clear understanding of his brother's hidden motives. Adonijah was fully aware of the mortal danger involved in approaching the king with such an appeal, and he certainly would not have risked death merely for the sake of a marriage. The sheer audacity to put his life on the line exposes a deeply calculated plan for rebellion. By attempting to take possession of the previous king's royal symbols, Adonijah was actively trying to establish his own authority and overthrow Solomon [מלבי״ם].