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 marked by significant events that shaped the history of the Israelites, including the secession of the ten northern tribes and the subsequent establishment of the kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam.

Reign and Challenges

Rehoboam ascended to the throne after the death of his father, Solomon. His reign began with a critical decision at Shechem, where the Israelites gathered to make him king. The people, led by Jeroboam, requested that Rehoboam lighten the heavy yoke imposed by Solomon. Rehoboam, after consulting with both the elders and his peers, chose to follow the advice of the younger men, responding harshly to the people's request. This decision led to the rebellion of the northern tribes and the division of the kingdom (1 Kings 12:1-19; 2 Chronicles 10:1-19).

Religious and Political Context

Rehoboam's reign was characterized by religious decline and political instability. The people of Judah engaged in practices that were detestable to the LORD, including the establishment of high places, sacred stones, and Asherah poles (1 Kings 14:22-24). This idolatry provoked the LORD's anger, leading to divine judgment upon the nation.

In the fifth year of Rehoboam's reign, Shishak, king of Egypt, attacked Jerusalem and carried off the treasures of the house of the LORD and the royal palace. This invasion was a direct consequence of Judah's unfaithfulness to God (1 Kings 14:25-26; 2 Chronicles 12:2-9). Despite this setback, Rehoboam fortified several cities in Judah and maintained a degree of stability in his kingdom (2 Chronicles 11:5-12).

Death and Succession

Rehoboam reigned in Jerusalem for seventeen years. His death is recorded in both the books of Kings and Chronicles. The Berean Standard Bible states, "And Rehoboam rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. And his son Abijah became king in his place" (1 Kings 14:31; 2 Chronicles 12:16). Rehoboam's burial in the City of David signifies his royal lineage and connection to the Davidic covenant, despite the challenges and failures of his reign.

Rehoboam's son, Abijah (also known as Abijam), succeeded him as king. The transition of power continued the Davidic line, which held theological significance for the fulfillment of God's promises to David regarding an everlasting dynasty (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

Legacy

Rehoboam's reign is often viewed through the lens of his initial failure to heed wise counsel, leading to the division of the kingdom. His account serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of godly wisdom and obedience to God's commandments. Despite his shortcomings, Rehoboam's place in the Davidic line underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant with David, which ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Messiah.