Solomon therefore sought to kill Jeroboam. But Jeroboam arose and fled to Egypt, to Shishak king of Egypt, where he remained until the death of Solomon. So Solomon sought to kill JeroboamThe phrase begins with "So," indicating a consequence or result of previous events. Solomon, the king renowned for wisdom, is now acting out of fear and anger. The Hebrew root for "sought" (בקש - baqash) implies a determined pursuit, reflecting Solomon's desperation to eliminate a perceived threat to his throne. This action contrasts sharply with Solomon's earlier reputation for wisdom and justice, highlighting the spiritual decline that accompanies his disobedience to God. Historically, this moment marks the beginning of the division of Israel, as Jeroboam is destined to lead the northern tribes. Solomon's attempt to kill Jeroboam is a direct result of the prophecy given by the prophet Ahijah, which foretold the division of the kingdom due to Solomon's idolatry ( 1 Kings 11:29-39). but Jeroboam fled to Egypt
The word "but" introduces a contrast, showing that Jeroboam's escape was successful despite Solomon's intentions. "Fled" (נוס - nus) in Hebrew conveys a sense of urgency and fear, indicating Jeroboam's awareness of the danger he faced. Egypt, at this time, was a place of refuge for those fleeing political turmoil in Israel, much like it had been for others in biblical history, such as Moses. Jeroboam's flight to Egypt is significant as it aligns with God's sovereign plan, ensuring the survival of the one chosen to lead the northern tribes. to Shishak king of Egypt
"Shishak" is the Hebrew rendering of the Egyptian Pharaoh Shoshenq I, who ruled during the 22nd Dynasty. Archaeological evidence, including inscriptions at Karnak, confirms Shishak's existence and his campaigns in Canaan, providing historical context to the biblical narrative. Shishak's willingness to harbor Jeroboam suggests political motivations, as Egypt often sought to influence the balance of power in the region. This alliance foreshadows future interactions between Egypt and Israel, particularly during Rehoboam's reign. where he remained until Solomon’s death
The phrase "where he remained" indicates a period of waiting and preparation for Jeroboam. The Hebrew verb "remained" (ישב - yashab) suggests a settled state, implying that Jeroboam found a degree of stability and protection in Egypt. This period of exile was part of God's providential plan, allowing Jeroboam to return and fulfill the prophecy after Solomon's death. "Until Solomon’s death" marks a significant transition in Israel's history, as the united kingdom would soon be divided. Solomon's death signifies the end of an era of peace and prosperity, overshadowed by his spiritual decline and the impending judgment on his house. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the unfolding of His divine plan despite human actions. Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonThe king of Israel, known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem. His later years were marked by idolatry and turning away from God, leading to the division of the kingdom. 2. JeroboamAn official under Solomon who was prophesied to become king over ten tribes of Israel. His rise was seen as a threat to Solomon, prompting Jeroboam's flight to Egypt. 3. ShishakThe king of Egypt who provided refuge to Jeroboam. His involvement signifies the political dynamics between Israel and Egypt during this period. 4. EgyptA place of refuge for Jeroboam, symbolizing a recurring theme in the Bible where Egypt serves as a place of both refuge and bondage. 5. Solomon’s DeathMarks the end of a united Israel under Solomon and the beginning of the divided kingdom, with Jeroboam ruling the northern tribes. Teaching Points Consequences of DisobedienceSolomon's attempt to kill Jeroboam is a direct result of his disobedience to God. This serves as a reminder that turning away from God can lead to personal and national turmoil. God’s Sovereignty in LeadershipDespite Solomon's efforts, God's plan for Jeroboam to lead the northern tribes was fulfilled. This illustrates that God's purposes prevail over human intentions. Seeking Refuge in Times of TroubleJeroboam's flight to Egypt shows the importance of seeking refuge and protection when faced with danger. Spiritually, believers are encouraged to seek refuge in God. Political Alliances and Spiritual CompromiseThe involvement of Egypt highlights the complex political alliances that can lead to spiritual compromise, a warning for believers to maintain their spiritual integrity. The Role of ProphecyThe events surrounding Jeroboam and Solomon underscore the importance of prophecy in guiding and shaping the history of God's people. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Solomon's attempt to kill Jeroboam reflect the consequences of his disobedience to God, and what can we learn from this about the importance of obedience in our own lives? 2. In what ways does Jeroboam's flight to Egypt parallel other biblical figures who sought refuge, and how can these accounts encourage us in times of personal crisis? 3. How does the prophecy given to Jeroboam by Ahijah in 1 Kings 11:29-39 demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our trust in God's plans for our lives? 4. What lessons can we learn from the political and spiritual dynamics between Israel and Egypt, and how can we apply these lessons to our interactions with the world today? 5. How does the theme of seeking refuge in God, as seen in Jeroboam's account, resonate with the teachings of the Psalms, and how can we apply this theme to our daily walk with God? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Kings 11:29-39Provides the background of the prophecy given to Jeroboam by the prophet Ahijah, foretelling the division of the kingdom due to Solomon's disobedience. Exodus 2:15Similar to Jeroboam, Moses fled to a foreign land (Midian) to escape the wrath of a king, highlighting a pattern of God’s chosen leaders finding refuge before fulfilling their roles. Matthew 2:13-15The flight of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus to Egypt parallels Jeroboam's flight, showing Egypt as a place of temporary refuge in times of danger. People Ahijah, Ammonites, Aram, Ashtoreth, Chemosh, David, Edomites, Eliada, Eliadah, Genubath, Hadad, Hadadezer, Hittites, Israelites, Jeroboam, Joab, Joseph, Milcom, Moabites, Molech, Nebat, Pharaoh, Rehoboam, Rezon, Shishak, Sidonians, Solomon, Tahpenes, Zeruah, Zidon, ZidoniansPlaces Damascus, Edom, Egypt, Jerusalem, Midian, Millo, Moab, Paran, Syria, Zeredah, ZobahTopics Chance, Death, Egypt, Fled, Fleeth, Flight, Jeroboam, Jerobo'am, Kill, Riseth, Seeketh, Shishak, Solomon, Solomon's, Sought, Stayed, Till, TriedDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Kings 11:40 5319 fugitives Library The New Garment Bent
'And Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, an Ephrathite of Zereda, Solomon's servant, whose mother's name was Zeruah, a widow woman, even he lifted up his hand against the king. 27. And this was the cause that he lifted up his hand against the king: Solomon built Millo, and repaired the breaches of the city of David his father. 28. And the man Jeroboam was a mighty man of valour: and Solomon seeing the young man that he was industrious, he made him ruler over all the charge of the house of Joseph. 29. And …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureThe Fall of Solomon
'For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father. 5. For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 6. And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord, and went not fully after the Lord, as did David his father. 7. Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture What Happened to Solomon
In his early manhood Solomon was noted for his deep piety and his fervent love of righteousness. When he became king, he found a great work ready for his hand, and he set about the task with a glad heart. To build a temple to Jehovah was his delight, and he threw into it his whole strength. His prayer at the dedication of the temple shows a deeply reverent and submissive spirit. As the years went by he increased in riches and honor. His name became a synonym for wisdom. Many nations paid him tribute. …
Charles Wesley Naylor—Heart Talks "When Solomon was Old. "
"It came to pass when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other Gods." 1 KINGS xi. 4. Who could have predicted that this would come to pass? And yet it is often so, for it is still true that NO AMOUNT OF KNOWLEDGE WILL SAVE FROM BACKSLIDING THOSE WHO REFUSE TO LISTEN TO GOD. We learn from verse 10 that God had taken pains to save Solomon from idolatry, (see 1 Kings vi. 12, and xi. 6). But what good is it for even God to try to save a man who will have his own way? And …
Thomas Champness—Broken Bread Scriptural Types.
1. The material world is full of analogies adapted to the illustration of spiritual things. No teacher ever drew from this inexhaustible storehouse such a rich variety of examples as our Saviour. His disciples are the salt of the earth, the light of the world, and a city set on a hill. From the ravens which God feeds and the lilies which God clothes, he teaches the unreasonableness of worldly anxiety. The kingdom of heaven is like seed sown in different soils, like a field of wheat and tares …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible The Situation of the Jews During this Period.
As we have seen in earlier chapters, the declarations of Holy Writ make it very clear that Israel will yet be restored to God's favor and be rehabilitated in Palestine. But before that glad time arrives, the Jews have to pass through a season of sore trouble and affliction, during which God severely chastises them for their sins and punishes them for the rejection and crucifixion of their Messiah. Fearful indeed have been the past experiences of "the nation of the weary feet" but a darker path than …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return How to Split a Kingdom
And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king. 2. And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was yet in Egypt, heard of it (for he was fled from the presence of king Solomon, and Jeroboam dwelt in Egypt); 3. That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying, 4. Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore make thou the grievous service of thy father, and his heavy yoke which he …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Political Religion
'Then Jeroboam built Shechera in mount Ephraim, and dwelt therein; and went out from thence, and built Penuel. 26. And Jeroboam said in his heart, Now shall the kingdom return to the house of David: 27. If this people go up to do sacrifice in the house of the Lord at Jerusalem, then shall the heart of this people turn again unto their lord, even unto Rehoboam king of Judah, and they shall kill me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah. 28. Whereupon the king took counsel, and made two calves of …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture "This Thing is from Me"
"Thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren the children of Israel: return every man to his house; for this thing is from me."--1 Kings 12:24. IT IS VERY DELIGHTFUL to read a history in which God is made prominent. How sadly deficient we are of such histories of our own English nation! Yet surely there is no story that is more full of God than the record of the doings of our British race. Cowper, in one of his poems, shows the parallel between us and the house of Israel, …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 42: 1896 Covenant Duties.
It is here proposed to show, that every incumbent duty ought, in suitable circumstances, to be engaged to in the exercise of Covenanting. The law and covenant of God are co-extensive; and what is enjoined in the one is confirmed in the other. The proposals of that Covenant include its promises and its duties. The former are made and fulfilled by its glorious Originator; the latter are enjoined and obligatory on man. The duties of that Covenant are God's law; and the demands of the law are all made …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting Formation and History of the Hebrew Canon.
1. The Greek word canon (originally a straight rod or pole, measuring-rod, then rule) denotes that collection of books which the churches receive as given by inspiration of God, and therefore as constituting for them a divine rule of faith and practice. To the books included in it the term canonical is applied. The Canon of the Old Testament, considered in reference to its constituent parts, was formed gradually; formed under divine superintendence by a process of growth extending through …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible Temporal Advantages.
"We brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content."--1 Tim. vi. 7, 8. Every age has its own special sins and temptations. Impatience with their lot, murmuring, grudging, unthankfulness, discontent, are sins common to men at all times, but I suppose one of those sins which belongs to our age more than to another, is desire of a greater portion of worldly goods than God has given us,--ambition and covetousness …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII Redemption for Man Lost to be Sought in Christ.
1. The knowledge of God the Creator of no avail without faith in Christ the Redeemer. First reason. Second reason strengthened by the testimony of an Apostle. Conclusion. This doctrine entertained by the children of God in all ages from the beginning of the world. Error of throwing open heaven to the heathen, who know nothing of Christ. The pretexts for this refuted by passages of Scripture. 2. God never was propitious to the ancient Israelites without Christ the Mediator. First reason founded on …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion The Instrumentality of the Wicked Employed by God, While He Continues Free from Every Taint.
1. The carnal mind the source of the objections which are raised against the Providence of God. A primary objection, making a distinction between the permission and the will of God, refuted. Angels and men, good and bad, do nought but what has been decreed by God. This proved by examples. 2. All hidden movements directed to their end by the unseen but righteous instigation of God. Examples, with answers to objections. 3. These objections originate in a spirit of pride and blasphemy. Objection, that …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 1 Kings 11:40 NIV1 Kings 11:40 NLT1 Kings 11:40 ESV1 Kings 11:40 NASB1 Kings 11:40 KJV
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