Commentators are struck that two of David's most loyal companions, Joab the general and Abiathar the priest, supported Adonijah's coup. Scholars suggest their motives were rooted in self-interest. Joab likely feared losing influence under a peaceful king like Solomon, while Abiathar was jealous of his rival priest, Zadok. This serves as a powerful warning that personal ambition and fear can corrupt even long-standing loyalty.