Rehoboam's Ascension and Initial Decisions

Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, ascended to the throne of Israel following Solomon's death. His reign is marked by a pivotal moment that led to the division of the united kingdom of Israel. The account of Rehoboam's folly is primarily found in 1 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 10.

Upon Solomon's death, Rehoboam traveled to Shechem, where all Israel had gathered to make him king (1 Kings 12:1). The people of Israel, led by Jeroboam son of Nebat, approached Rehoboam with a request to lighten the heavy yoke that Solomon had placed upon them. They promised loyalty if he would ease their burdens (1 Kings 12:4).

Rehoboam sought counsel on how to respond. He first consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon. They advised him to be a servant to the people and speak kindly to them, suggesting that this would secure their loyalty (1 Kings 12:7). However, Rehoboam rejected their advice and instead consulted the young men he had grown up with, who advised him to increase the people's burdens, asserting his authority with harshness (1 Kings 12:10-11).

The Division of the Kingdom

Rehoboam's decision to follow the counsel of the young men proved disastrous. When he delivered his harsh response to the people, saying, "My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add to your yoke. My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions" (1 Kings 12:14), the people of Israel rebelled. This response fulfilled the prophecy given to Jeroboam by the prophet Ahijah, who had foretold the division of the kingdom due to Solomon's idolatry (1 Kings 11:29-31).

The ten northern tribes rejected Rehoboam's rule, declaring, "What portion do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, O Israel! Look now to your own house, David" (1 Kings 12:16). Thus, the kingdom was divided, with Jeroboam becoming king over Israel in the north, while Rehoboam retained control over the tribes of Judah and Benjamin in the south (1 Kings 12:20-21).

Consequences and Legacy

Rehoboam's folly had lasting consequences for the nation of Israel. The division weakened the once-united kingdom, leading to a period of strife and conflict between the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. This division also set the stage for the eventual downfall and exile of both kingdoms.

Rehoboam's failure to heed wise counsel and his reliance on youthful arrogance serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of humility and the dangers of pride. His reign is a reminder of the need for leaders to seek wisdom and to serve their people with justice and compassion.