2 Chronicles 10:18

Then King Rehoboam sent out Hadoram, who was in charge of the forced labor, but the Israelites stoned him to death. And King Rehoboam mounted his chariot in haste and escaped to Jerusalem.

Study Bible

Then King Rehoboam
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, ascended to the throne of Israel after his father's death. His reign marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as it leads to the division of the united kingdom. The name "Rehoboam" in Hebrew means "he who enlarges the people," which is ironic given the division that occurs under his rule. His kingship is a reminder of the importance of wise and compassionate leadership, as opposed to the harshness that leads to division and strife.

sent out Hadoram
Hadoram, also known as Adoram in some translations, was an official in charge of forced labor. His role was significant during Solomon's reign, as forced labor was a major part of the kingdom's infrastructure projects. The sending of Hadoram by Rehoboam reflects a continuation of policies that were unpopular among the people, highlighting a lack of sensitivity to the grievances of the Israelites. This decision underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of those one leads.

who was in charge of the forced labor
The phrase "forced labor" refers to the corvée system, a form of conscripted labor that was used extensively during Solomon's reign to build the temple and other projects. This system was burdensome and resented by the people, particularly the northern tribes. The historical context here is crucial, as it sets the stage for the rebellion against Rehoboam. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of exploiting and oppressing people, which can lead to unrest and division.

but the Israelites stoned him to death
The stoning of Hadoram by the Israelites is a dramatic and violent act of rebellion. Stoning was a common form of execution in ancient Israel, often used for severe offenses. This act signifies the deep-seated anger and frustration of the people towards Rehoboam's administration. It is a stark reminder of the consequences of ignoring the will and welfare of the people, and the potential for violence when leaders fail to listen and respond to the needs of their constituents.

So King Rehoboam mounted his chariot in haste
Rehoboam's hasty retreat in his chariot symbolizes his failure to maintain control and authority over the kingdom. The chariot, often a symbol of power and prestige, here becomes a vehicle of escape, highlighting Rehoboam's vulnerability and the precariousness of his rule. This moment serves as a powerful illustration of the downfall that can occur when leaders are disconnected from the realities and needs of their people.

and escaped to Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the capital city and spiritual center of Israel, becomes a refuge for Rehoboam. His escape to Jerusalem signifies a retreat to a place of safety and strength, yet it also marks the beginning of a divided kingdom. Theologically, Jerusalem holds great significance as the city of David and the location of the temple, representing God's presence among His people. Rehoboam's return to Jerusalem can be seen as a call to seek divine guidance and wisdom in times of crisis and division.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and the king of Judah, whose harsh policies led to the division of the united kingdom of Israel.

2. Hadoram
Also known as Adoram, he was in charge of forced labor under King Rehoboam. His death by stoning marked a significant rebellion against Rehoboam's rule.

3. The Israelites
The northern tribes of Israel who rejected Rehoboam's authority, leading to the division of the kingdom.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Rehoboam fled for safety after the rebellion.

5. The Event of Stoning
The act of stoning Hadoram was a public and violent rejection of Rehoboam's authority and policies.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Harsh Leadership
Rehoboam's decision to impose heavy burdens on the people led to rebellion and division. Leaders should consider the well-being of those they lead and seek wisdom in their decisions.

The Importance of Listening
Rehoboam ignored the advice of the elders and chose to listen to his peers, leading to disastrous results. Seeking and heeding wise counsel is crucial in decision-making.

The Dangers of Pride and Arrogance
Rehoboam's pride and refusal to humble himself before the people's request resulted in the loss of the kingdom. Humility and a servant's heart are essential traits for godly leadership.

The Role of God's Sovereignty
Despite human failures, God's sovereign plan was at work in the division of the kingdom. Trusting in God's overarching plan can bring peace amidst turmoil.

The Power of Rebellion
The Israelites' rebellion against unjust leadership serves as a reminder of the power and consequences of collective action. It underscores the need for justice and righteousness in leadership.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Rehoboam's leadership style, and how can we apply these lessons to our own roles as leaders or followers?

2. How does the account of Hadoram's stoning reflect the broader theme of justice and oppression in the Bible?

3. In what ways does Rehoboam's account illustrate the importance of seeking wise counsel, and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives?

4. How does the division of the kingdom under Rehoboam demonstrate God's sovereignty, and what comfort can we find in this truth during times of personal or communal crisis?

5. Reflect on a time when pride or arrogance led to negative consequences in your life. How can you cultivate humility and a servant's heart in your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
This chapter provides a parallel account of the events leading to the division of the kingdom, offering additional context to Rehoboam's decisions and the resulting rebellion.

Exodus 1:11
This verse discusses the use of forced labor by the Egyptians, drawing a parallel to the oppressive labor practices that led to Israel's rebellion against Rehoboam.

Proverbs 15:1
This verse highlights the importance of gentle answers and wise leadership, contrasting with Rehoboam's harsh response to the people's request for lighter burdens.