1 Kings 14:31

And Rehoboam rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David; his mother's name was Naamah the Ammonite. And his son Abijam reigned in his place.

Study Bible

And Rehoboam rested with his fathers
The phrase "rested with his fathers" is a common biblical euphemism for death, indicating that Rehoboam joined his ancestors in death. The Hebrew root for "rested" is "שָׁכַב" (shakab), which implies lying down or sleeping, suggesting a peaceful transition from life to death. This phrase also reflects the belief in an afterlife where the deceased are gathered to their people, a concept that resonates with the hope of eternal rest and peace in the presence of God.

and was buried with them in the City of David
The "City of David" refers to Jerusalem, specifically the area that King David established as his capital. This burial location signifies honor and continuity of the Davidic line, emphasizing the importance of Jerusalem as the spiritual and political center of Israel. Archaeological findings in the City of David have uncovered ancient burial sites, affirming the historical significance of this location. The act of being buried with one's ancestors underscores the cultural and familial ties that were highly valued in ancient Israelite society.

And his mother's name was Naamah the Ammonite
Naamah, identified as "the Ammonite," highlights the foreign influence within the Israelite monarchy. The Ammonites were descendants of Lot and often in conflict with Israel, yet here we see an integration through marriage. This detail serves as a reminder of the complex relationships between Israel and its neighbors and the potential for both positive and negative influences. The mention of Naamah by name also underscores the significant role that mothers played in the royal lineage, impacting the spiritual and political direction of the kingdom.

And his son Abijam reigned in his place
The transition of power to "his son Abijam" marks the continuation of the Davidic dynasty, fulfilling God's promise to David of an enduring throne. The name "Abijam" means "my father is the sea" or "father of the sea," which may reflect the cultural or religious influences of the time. This succession highlights the biblical theme of legacy and the importance of righteous leadership. Abijam's reign, as recorded in subsequent chapters, serves as a narrative of the challenges and responsibilities that come with kingship, reminding readers of the need for faithfulness to God's covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, whose reign was marked by division and conflict. His leadership led to the split of the united kingdom of Israel.

2. City of David
A term often used to refer to Jerusalem, specifically the area where David established his capital and where the kings of Judah were buried.

3. Naamah the Ammonite
Rehoboam's mother, highlighting the foreign influence in the royal family, which was contrary to the Israelite law that discouraged intermarriage with foreign nations.

4. Abijam
Rehoboam's son, who succeeded him as king. His reign continued the pattern of disobedience to God.

5. Burial with Fathers
A phrase indicating the continuation of the Davidic line and the tradition of royal burials in Jerusalem.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Rehoboam's reign serves as a reminder of the consequences of poor leadership and the importance of seeking God's wisdom in governance.

The Influence of Family and Heritage
The mention of Naamah the Ammonite highlights the impact of family background and the potential for foreign influences to lead one away from God's commands.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite the failures of Rehoboam and his successors, God remained faithful to His covenant with David, ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

The Legacy We Leave
Rehoboam's legacy was one of division and disobedience. This challenges us to consider the spiritual legacy we are leaving for future generations.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Rehoboam's account is a cautionary tale about the consequences of turning away from God's laws and the importance of repentance and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rehoboam's leadership compare to that of his father Solomon, and what lessons can we learn about the importance of seeking God's wisdom in our own leadership roles?

2. In what ways does the influence of Naamah the Ammonite reflect the potential impact of our family and cultural background on our spiritual lives?

3. How does the continuity of the Davidic line, despite the failures of its kings, demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are leaving a positive spiritual legacy for the next generation?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Rehoboam's reign to avoid the consequences of disobedience in our own lives, and what scriptures can guide us in this pursuit?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:43
This verse parallels 1 Kings 14:31, describing Solomon's death and Rehoboam's succession, emphasizing the continuity of the Davidic line.

2 Chronicles 12:16
Provides a similar account of Rehoboam's death and burial, reinforcing the historical record of the kings of Judah.

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
Warns against intermarriage with foreign nations, which is relevant to Rehoboam's lineage through Naamah the Ammonite.

Matthew 1:7
Lists Rehoboam in the genealogy of Jesus, showing God's faithfulness to His covenant despite human failure.