Bible Figure

Adoniram

Male • Old Testament
male human biblical figure in 1 Kings 2:6 and 2 Samuel 20:24, son of Abda
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Adoniram was an official over forced labor during the reigns of David, Solomon, and Rehoboam.
Adoniram

Biography

Second Samuel names Adoram, commonly associated with Adoniram, as being over forced labor under David. First Kings identifies Adoniram son of Abda as holding the same responsibility under Solomon. After the kingdom divided, Rehoboam sent Adoram to the rebellious Israelites, who stoned him to death, forcing Rehoboam to flee to Jerusalem. The office itself was deeply connected with the labor burdens that contributed to northern resentment.

Biblical Significance

Adoniram personifies the system of compulsory labor that became politically explosive under Solomon and Rehoboam. His death dramatically marks the northern tribes' rejection of Rehoboam's authority.