Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Abijam, also known as Abijah, was a king of Judah and a descendant of the Davidic line. His reign is documented in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Abijam's rule is characterized by a brief tenure marked by conflict and religious shortcomings, yet he is also noted for his connection to the covenantal promises made to David. Biblical Account: Abijam's account is primarily found in 1 Kings 15:1-8 and 2 Chronicles 13. He was the son of Rehoboam and the grandson of Solomon, making him the third king of the southern kingdom of Judah. His mother was Maacah, the granddaughter of Absalom. Abijam reigned for three years in Jerusalem. Reign and Religious Practices: 1 Kings 15:3 states, "And he walked in all the sins his father had committed before him, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God, as the heart of his forefather David had been." This passage highlights Abijam's failure to fully commit to the religious reforms and covenantal faithfulness exemplified by David. Despite this, the LORD maintained the Davidic line for the sake of David, as noted in 1 Kings 15:4: "Nevertheless, for the sake of David, the LORD his God gave him a lamp in Jerusalem by raising up a son to succeed him and by making Jerusalem strong." Military Conflict: Abijam's reign was marked by ongoing conflict with Jeroboam, the king of the northern kingdom of Israel. 2 Chronicles 13 provides a detailed account of a significant battle between the two kingdoms. Abijam addressed the forces of Israel, reminding them of the LORD's covenant with David and accusing Jeroboam of leading Israel into idolatry. Despite being outnumbered, Abijam's forces achieved victory, attributed to their reliance on the LORD, as stated in 2 Chronicles 13:18: "Thus the Israelites were subdued at that time, and the people of Judah prevailed because they relied on the LORD, the God of their fathers." Legacy: Abijam's reign was short, and he was succeeded by his son Asa, who is noted for his religious reforms and efforts to return Judah to the worship of the LORD. Abijam's legacy is mixed; while he continued the Davidic line and achieved military success, his religious practices did not align with the covenantal ideals established by his forefather David. Historical Context: Abijam's reign occurred during a period of division and strife in the history of Israel and Judah. The united monarchy had split into two kingdoms following Solomon's reign, leading to political and religious tensions. Abijam's rule reflects the challenges faced by the kings of Judah in maintaining fidelity to the LORD amidst external threats and internal idolatry. Conclusion: Abijam's account serves as a reminder of the complexities of leadership and the enduring significance of the Davidic covenant in the biblical narrative. His reign, though brief, is a testament to the LORD's faithfulness to His promises, even amidst human failings. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 15:1-8Now in the eighteenth year of king Jeroboam the son of Nebat reigned Abijam over Judah. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 11:22 2 Chronicles 13:1 Library The Book of Enoch The Jewish Institutions and Laws of Far Higher Antiquity than the ... The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Who was King Abijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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