Topical Encyclopedia
Abijam, also known as Abijah, was a king of Judah who reigned for a brief period following the death of his father, Rehoboam. His account is primarily found in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Abijam's reign is marked by a continuation of the practices that were displeasing to God, and he is often remembered for his failure to lead the people of Judah in righteousness.
Background and ReignAbijam was the son of Rehoboam and the grandson of Solomon, making him a direct descendant of King David. He ascended to the throne of Judah during a time of division and strife, as the kingdom of Israel had been split into two: the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Abijam's reign lasted for three years, as recorded in
1 Kings 15:1-2 : "In the eighteenth year of the reign of Jeroboam son of Nebat, Abijam became king of Judah, and he reigned in Jerusalem three years. His mother’s name was Maacah daughter of Abishalom."
Wickedness and FailuresAbijam is often characterized by his failure to follow the ways of the Lord wholeheartedly. The Bible notes that he continued in the sinful practices of his father, Rehoboam, and did not fully commit to the ways of David, his forefather.
1 Kings 15:3 states, "And Abijam 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."
Despite his shortcomings, Abijam did experience some military success. He engaged in conflict with Jeroboam, the king of Israel, and managed to secure a victory, as detailed in
2 Chronicles 13. However, this victory did not translate into a spiritual renewal or a return to the covenantal faithfulness that God desired from the kings of Judah.
Legacy and ImpactAbijam's reign is often seen as a missed opportunity for spiritual reform in Judah. His failure to lead the nation in righteousness set a precedent for future kings who would also struggle with idolatry and disobedience. Nevertheless, the Lord's promise to David ensured that Abijam's lineage would continue, 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."
Abijam's son, Asa, succeeded him and brought about significant religious reforms, contrasting sharply with his father's reign. Asa's commitment to the Lord highlighted the potential for renewal and the importance of faithful leadership in the eyes of God.
In summary, Abijam's reign serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of failing to fully devote one's heart to God. His account underscores the importance of righteous leadership and the enduring impact of a king's faithfulness—or lack thereof—on the spiritual health of a nation.
Nave's Topical Index
1 Kings 15:3And he walked in all the sins of his father, which he had done before him: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as the heart of David his father.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Book of Enoch
... shall be upon you; rejoice, ye children of righteousness ... and the punishment of the
wicked, composed, as ... consists of fourteen generations from Abijam to Salathiel ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the book of enoch.htm
Resources
What does it mean that Jesus loves the little children? | GotQuestions.orgHow should Christians discipline their children? What does the Bible say? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about disobedient children? | GotQuestions.orgChildren: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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