Topical Encyclopedia Background and Family:Abijah, also spelled Abijam in some translations, was the son of Jeroboam I, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. Jeroboam reigned over Israel following the revolt against Rehoboam, Solomon's son, which led to the establishment of the separate kingdoms of Israel in the north and Judah in the south. Abijah's mother is not named in the biblical text, but he was part of the royal family during a tumultuous period in Israel's history. Biblical Account: The primary account of Abijah, son of Jeroboam, is found in 1 Kings 14. The narrative describes a significant event in Abijah's life that underscores the tension between the prophetic word and the royal house of Jeroboam. Illness and Prophecy: Abijah fell ill during his father's reign, prompting Jeroboam to seek divine insight regarding his son's fate. Jeroboam instructed his wife to disguise herself and visit the prophet Ahijah in Shiloh. Jeroboam hoped to receive a favorable prophecy concerning Abijah's health. However, despite her disguise, Ahijah, who was blind due to old age, was informed by the LORD of her arrival and the true purpose of her visit. Prophetic Message: Ahijah delivered a grave message from the LORD to Jeroboam's wife. The prophecy condemned Jeroboam for leading Israel into sin and idolatry, forsaking the ways of David. The LORD declared that disaster would come upon Jeroboam's house, and that every male in his family would be cut off. Regarding Abijah, Ahijah prophesied that he would die, but he alone would be mourned and buried honorably because "something good toward the LORD, the God of Israel, was found in him" (1 Kings 14:13). Death and Burial: As foretold by the prophet, Abijah died shortly after his mother's return to Tirzah, the royal residence. His death marked a moment of mourning for Israel, as he was the only member of Jeroboam's house to receive a proper burial, signifying a measure of divine favor despite the overall judgment against Jeroboam's lineage. Significance: Abijah's account highlights the themes of divine judgment and mercy. Despite the widespread apostasy under Jeroboam's rule, Abijah's favorable standing with the LORD suggests that individual righteousness was recognized and rewarded, even amidst a corrupt dynasty. His death served as a poignant reminder of the consequences of Jeroboam's actions and the fulfillment of prophetic words. References: · 1 Kings 14:1-18 Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 14:1-18At that time Abijah the son of Jeroboam fell sick. Nave's Topical Index Library Concerning the Death of a Son of Jeroboam. How Jeroboam was Beaten ... The Secret of victory Concerning Rehoboam, and How God Inflicted Punishment Upon Him for ... The Rending of the Kingdom The Antiquities of the Jews The Kingdom Op Judah. The Divided Kingdom. Questions. Concerning Jehoshaphat the King of Jerusalem and How Ahab Made an ... A Look into the Hebrew Bible. Resources What is a salt covenant? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org Old Testament Individuals ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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