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2 Chronicles 10

19 verses

TL;DR

Rehoboam’s refusal to ease his father Solomon’s heavy yoke triggers the division of Israel and the establishment of Jeroboam’s separate kingdom.

Summary

Rehoboam travels to Shechem to meet the Israelite delegation led by Jeroboam, who seeks relief from the burdens imposed by Solomon. The king consults the elder counselors, who advise compassion, but he rejects their counsel and instead turns to younger advisors who counsel harshness. Following their advice, Rehoboam’s reply is a threat to add more punishment, leading the Israelites to reject his rule and return to their own tents. The narrative notes that Israel’s disobedience fulfills God’s promise, as delivered through Ahijah, and marks the beginning of a long‑term rebellion against Davidic rule. Rehoboam remains king only over Judah, while the rest of Israel establishes its own monarchy under Jeroboam. The chapter closes with the statement that Israel’s rebellion continues to this day.

Outline
  1. Rehoboam’s consultation with elders vs. youth and the resulting harsh decree
  2. Jeroboam’s rejection of Rehoboam and the dispersal of Israel
  3. Rehoboam’s continued rule over Judah and the ongoing rebellion
Themes
The folly of political pride vs. wise counselThe consequences of broken covenantDivine judgment through prophetic fulfillment
Keywords
covenantyokewhipsscorpionsprophecyrebellionDivine judgment
People
RehoboamJeroboamNebatSolomonAhijahHadoram
Places
ShechemEgyptJerusalemJudahcities of Judah
Things
yokewhipsscorpionsstoneschariot
Key Verses
  • 2 Chronicles 10:13: Rehoboam’s harsh reply to the Israelites
  • 2 Chronicles 10:15: Affirms that Israel’s rebellion fulfills God’s word via Ahijah
  • 2 Chronicles 10:19: Declares the lasting nature of Israel’s rebellion
Questions
  • Why did Rehoboam dismiss the counsel of the elders?
  • How does this chapter illustrate the consequences of ignoring prophetic warning?
  • In what way does the division of Israel serve as a fulfillment of God’s earlier promises?
Sentiment

negative
The narrative highlights broken promises and harsh judgment, reflecting a negative tone.