Adonijah, who had previously declared himself king, found himself in a precarious position when Solomon was anointed as the rightful ruler. In ancient Israel, the altar was a sacred place, and its horns were believed to be a point of divine contact. By clutching the horns of the altar, Adonijah was invoking a tradition where individuals could seek sanctuary and plead for their lives. This act demonstrated his fear of retribution from Solomon, who now held legitimate power.
The horns of the altar were not just physical structures but carried deep spiritual significance, representing God's mercy and justice. Adonijah's choice to seek refuge there underscores the cultural and religious belief in the power of divine protection and forgiveness. It also highlights the human tendency to seek mercy in times of fear and uncertainty. This moment in the narrative illustrates the interplay between human authority and divine grace, reminding us of the importance of seeking refuge in God's presence when facing life's challenges.