2 Chronicles 12:2

In the fifth year of Rehoboam's reign, because they had been unfaithful to the LORD, Shishak king of Egypt came up and attacked Jerusalem

Study Bible

In the fifth year
This phrase marks a specific point in time during the reign of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon. The fifth year of Rehoboam's reign is significant because it represents a period shortly after the division of the united monarchy of Israel into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Historically, this division occurred due to Rehoboam's harsh policies, which led to the secession of the ten northern tribes. The fifth year is a reminder of the rapid decline in the spiritual and political stability of Judah following Solomon's death.

of King Rehoboam
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, is a central figure in this narrative. His reign is marked by a departure from the wisdom and prosperity of his predecessors. Rehoboam's failure to heed wise counsel and his reliance on youthful advisors led to the fracturing of the kingdom. His kingship is a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride and the importance of seeking God's guidance.

Shishak king of Egypt
Shishak, also known as Sheshonq I, was the first ruler of the 22nd Dynasty of Egypt. Archaeological evidence, including inscriptions at Karnak, confirms his campaign into Israel and Judah. Shishak's invasion is historically significant as it demonstrates the geopolitical dynamics of the region, where Egypt sought to reassert its influence over the Levant. This event also underscores the vulnerability of Judah when it strayed from God's protection.

came up against Jerusalem
The phrase indicates a military campaign directed at the heart of Judah, Jerusalem. Jerusalem, the city of David, held religious and political significance as the location of the Temple. Shishak's campaign against Jerusalem symbolizes a direct threat to the spiritual center of the Jewish people. This invasion serves as a divine chastisement for Judah's unfaithfulness, highlighting the theme of covenantal consequences throughout the Old Testament.

because they had been unfaithful to the LORD
This phrase provides the theological reason for Shishak's invasion. The unfaithfulness of Judah refers to their abandonment of the covenant with God, likely involving idolatry and neglect of the Law. The Hebrew root for "unfaithful" (מָעַל, ma'al) conveys a sense of treachery or betrayal. This breach of faith resulted in divine judgment, illustrating the principle that obedience to God brings blessing, while disobedience invites discipline. This serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, whose reign is marked by a division of the united kingdom and spiritual decline.

2. Shishak
The king of Egypt who invaded Judah during Rehoboam's reign, representing a foreign threat used by God to discipline His people.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant as the spiritual and political center of the kingdom, and the location of the Temple.

4. Unfaithfulness to the LORD
The spiritual state of Judah under Rehoboam, characterized by idolatry and abandonment of God's commandments.

5. The Fifth Year of Rehoboam’s Reign
A specific time marker indicating the early period of Rehoboam's rule when the kingdom faced divine judgment due to unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Unfaithfulness
Unfaithfulness to God leads to vulnerability and judgment. Rehoboam's reign illustrates how turning away from God results in tangible consequences, such as foreign invasion and loss.

God's Sovereignty in Discipline
God uses external circumstances, like Shishak's invasion, to discipline His people and call them back to faithfulness. This demonstrates His sovereignty and desire for repentance.

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
Rehoboam's failure to lead Judah in faithfulness to God had national repercussions. Spiritual leaders must prioritize obedience to God to guide their people rightly.

The Role of Repentance
The account encourages self-examination and repentance. When faced with the consequences of sin, turning back to God is crucial for restoration.

Learning from History
The account of Rehoboam and Shishak serves as a historical lesson for believers today, emphasizing the need to remain faithful to God and heed His warnings.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the specific actions or attitudes that led to Judah's unfaithfulness during Rehoboam's reign, and how can we avoid similar pitfalls in our own lives?

2. How does the account of Shishak's invasion illustrate the principle of divine discipline, and what other biblical examples can you find that reinforce this concept?

3. In what ways can spiritual leaders today learn from Rehoboam's failures to ensure they lead their communities in faithfulness to God?

4. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of 2 Chronicles 12:2 enhance our interpretation and application of this passage?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of unfaithfulness in your own life. How did you respond, and what steps did you take to return to faithfulness to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 14:25-26
This passage parallels the account of Shishak's invasion, providing additional details about the treasures taken from the Temple and the royal palace.

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandments against idolatry highlight the seriousness of Judah's unfaithfulness, which led to their vulnerability to foreign invasion.

Deuteronomy 28:15, 25
These verses outline the consequences of disobedience to God's covenant, including defeat by enemies, which is exemplified in Shishak's attack.