Topical Encyclopedia
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and Naamah the Ammonite, was the first king of the southern kingdom of Judah following the division of the united monarchy of Israel. His reign is chronicled in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Rehoboam's rule was marked by significant challenges, including the secession of the ten northern tribes, which formed the kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam.
Rehoboam's death is recorded in
1 Kings 14:29-31 and
2 Chronicles 12:15-16. According to the Berean Standard Bible,
1 Kings 14:31 states: "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 became king in his place." Similarly,
2 Chronicles 12:16 records: "Then Rehoboam rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. And his son Abijah became king in his place."
Rehoboam's reign lasted for seventeen years, during which he faced numerous difficulties, including the invasion of Judah by Shishak, king of Egypt. This invasion is seen as a divine judgment for the unfaithfulness of Judah, as they had abandoned the law of the LORD (
2 Chronicles 12:1-2). Despite these challenges, Rehoboam's reign is noted for the fortification of cities in Judah and Benjamin, as well as the consolidation of his rule over the southern kingdom.
The biblical narrative highlights Rehoboam's failure to heed wise counsel, which led to the division of the kingdom. His decision to follow the advice of his younger advisors, rather than the elders who had served his father Solomon, resulted in the alienation of the northern tribes (
1 Kings 12:6-15). This pivotal moment in Israel's history underscores the importance of seeking godly wisdom and the consequences of pride and folly.
Rehoboam's death marked the end of an era and the continuation of the Davidic line through his son Abijah (also known as Abijam). The legacy of Rehoboam's reign is a testament to the complexities of leadership and the enduring impact of decisions made by those in authority. His burial in the City of David signifies his place within the royal lineage, despite the challenges and failures of his reign.