Biblical Context:
Abijah's speech on the mount is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Chronicles 13. Abijah, the son of Rehoboam and grandson of Solomon, was the king of Judah. His reign is noted for the conflict with Jeroboam, the king of Israel, which culminated in a battle where Abijah delivered a notable speech.

Historical Background:
Following the death of Solomon, the united kingdom of Israel was divided into two: the northern kingdom, known as Israel, under Jeroboam, and the southern kingdom, known as Judah, under Rehoboam. Abijah succeeded Rehoboam as king of Judah. The division led to ongoing hostilities between the two kingdoms, rooted in political, religious, and territorial disputes.

The Speech:
Abijah's speech is delivered on Mount Zemaraim, in the hill country of Ephraim, as he faced Jeroboam's forces. The speech is a powerful declaration of faith and a call to the people of Israel to recognize the legitimacy of the Davidic line and the true worship of Yahweh.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Divine Covenant and Legitimate Rule:
Abijah begins by asserting the divine covenant made with David, emphasizing that the kingdom of Israel was given to David and his descendants by a "covenant of salt" (2 Chronicles 13:5). This covenant signifies a perpetual and unbreakable agreement, underscoring the legitimacy of his rule over Judah.

2. Condemnation of Idolatry:
Abijah criticizes Jeroboam and the northern kingdom for abandoning the worship of Yahweh and turning to idolatry. He highlights the establishment of golden calves and the appointment of non-Levitical priests as evidence of their apostasy (2 Chronicles 13:8-9).

3. Call to Faithfulness:
Abijah contrasts the faithfulness of Judah with the apostasy of Israel. He points out that Judah has maintained the true worship of Yahweh, with priests from the line of Aaron and Levites performing their duties (2 Chronicles 13:10-11). This appeal to religious fidelity serves as a rallying cry for his troops and a rebuke to the northern kingdom.

4. Divine Support and Victory:
Abijah concludes by expressing confidence in divine support, asserting that God is with Judah and will fight their battles. He warns Jeroboam and his forces not to fight against the Lord, the God of their ancestors, as they will not succeed (2 Chronicles 13:12).

Outcome:
The speech is followed by a decisive battle in which Abijah's forces, though outnumbered, achieve a significant victory over Jeroboam's army. The text attributes this success to divine intervention, as Judah relied on the Lord (2 Chronicles 13:15-18).

Significance:
Abijah's speech on the mount is a profound moment that underscores the themes of covenant faithfulness, legitimate leadership, and the consequences of idolatry. It serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to divine commandments and the assurance of God's support for those who remain faithful.