Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, was the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel following the division of the united monarchy after the reign of Solomon. His reign marked a significant period in the history of Israel, both politically and religiously. Jeroboam's rule is chronicled in the biblical books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, where his actions and their consequences are detailed.

Background and Ascension to the Throne

Jeroboam was an Ephraimite from Zeredah, and his mother was named Zeruah, a widow (1 Kings 11:26). He initially served as an official under King Solomon, overseeing the labor force of the house of Joseph. However, due to Solomon's idolatry and the subsequent divine judgment, the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite prophesied that Jeroboam would rule over ten of the twelve tribes of Israel (1 Kings 11:29-31).

After Solomon's death, Jeroboam led a revolt against Solomon's son, Rehoboam, resulting in the division of the kingdom. The ten northern tribes rejected Rehoboam's harsh policies and made Jeroboam their king (1 Kings 12:20).

Religious Reforms and Idolatry

Jeroboam's reign is notably marked by his establishment of alternative worship centers in Bethel and Dan. To prevent the people from returning to Jerusalem for worship, he set up golden calves and declared, "Here are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt" (1 Kings 12:28). This act of idolatry was a direct violation of the covenant with Yahweh and led Israel into sin.

Genealogies and Historical Records

During Jeroboam's reign, genealogical records and historical accounts were maintained, as was customary in the ancient Near East. These records served to legitimize his rule and establish the lineage and tribal affiliations of the northern kingdom. The chronicling of genealogies was an essential aspect of Israelite culture, reflecting the importance of heritage and divine promise.

The biblical narrative does not provide specific genealogical lists attributed directly to Jeroboam's reign. However, the emphasis on tribal identities and the division of the kingdom underscores the significance of genealogical records during this period. The division itself was rooted in tribal affiliations, with the ten northern tribes forming the kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam's leadership.

Legacy and Impact

Jeroboam's reign had a lasting impact on the history of Israel. His establishment of idolatrous worship practices set a precedent that would plague the northern kingdom throughout its existence. The biblical assessment of Jeroboam is largely negative, as he is frequently cited as the standard of sinfulness for subsequent kings of Israel. The phrase "Jeroboam son of Nebat, who caused Israel to sin" becomes a recurring indictment in the biblical narrative (1 Kings 16:26).

Despite his political acumen and initial promise, Jeroboam's failure to adhere to the covenant with Yahweh ultimately led to spiritual decline and judgment upon his house. His reign serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of turning away from divine commandments and the enduring importance of faithfulness to God's covenant.1 Chronicles 5:17
All these were reckoned by genealogies in the days of Jotham king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam king of Israel.
Nave's Topical Index

Formation and History of the Hebrew Canon.
... thee;" "and it shall be when he""the king whom the ... the vision of Iddo the seer against
Jeroboam the son ... the public scribes of the kingdom of Israel, but of ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xv formation and history.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... son given to him in all the genealogies enumerating the ... disaster they had formerly
inflicted on Israel, is supposed ... when the Jews, without any king or settled ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Who was King Abijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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Jeroboam: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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