The conflict between Abijah, king of Judah, and Jeroboam, king of Israel, is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Chronicles 13. This war is emblematic of the ongoing strife between the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah following the united monarchy under Saul, David, and Solomon.

Background

After 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, Solomon's son. This division was a fulfillment of the prophecy given to Jeroboam by the prophet Ahijah (1 Kings 11:29-39), as a consequence of Solomon's idolatry.

Abijah's Reign

Abijah, also known as Abijam, was the son of Rehoboam and the grandson of Solomon. He reigned over Judah for three years, from approximately 913 to 911 BC. His reign is noted for the war against Jeroboam, which is detailed in 2 Chronicles 13.

The Battle

The battle between Abijah and Jeroboam took place in the hill country of Ephraim. Abijah's forces were significantly outnumbered, with 400,000 men compared to Jeroboam's 800,000. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Abijah stood on Mount Zemaraim and addressed Jeroboam and all Israel, reminding them of the Davidic covenant and the legitimacy of his rule over Judah. He declared, "Do you not know that the LORD, the God of Israel, has given the kingship of Israel to David and his descendants forever by a covenant of salt?" (2 Chronicles 13:5).

Abijah accused Jeroboam of leading Israel into idolatry and rebellion against the LORD, highlighting the golden calves Jeroboam had set up in Bethel and Dan (1 Kings 12:28-30). Abijah emphasized that Judah had remained faithful to the worship of the LORD, maintaining the priesthood and the temple services as prescribed in the Law of Moses.

Divine Intervention and Victory

As the battle commenced, Jeroboam attempted to ambush Abijah's forces. However, Abijah and his men cried out to the LORD, and the priests blew the trumpets. The LORD responded to their plea, and the army of Judah was victorious. The chronicler records, "So the Israelites were subdued at that time, and the people of Judah prevailed because they relied on the LORD, the God of their fathers" (2 Chronicles 13:18).

The victory was decisive, with 500,000 of Jeroboam's men slain, marking one of the most significant losses in Israel's military history. This victory reinforced the legitimacy of the Davidic line and the importance of faithfulness to the covenant with God.

Aftermath

Following the battle, Abijah pursued Jeroboam, capturing several cities, including Bethel, Jeshanah, and Ephron, with their surrounding villages. Jeroboam did not recover his power during Abijah's lifetime, and the LORD struck him down, leading to his death (2 Chronicles 13:20).

Abijah's reign, though brief, was marked by this significant victory, which underscored the importance of reliance on God and adherence to His covenant. The account of this war serves as a reminder of the consequences of idolatry and rebellion against God's ordained order, as well as the blessings of faithfulness and divine intervention in times of conflict.