Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, ascended to the throne of the united kingdom of Israel following Solomon's death. His reign is marked by significant events that shaped the history of Israel and Judah. One of the notable aspects of Rehoboam's rule was his initiative to build fortified cities, which contributed to a period of temporary prosperity for the kingdom of Judah.

Fortification Efforts

Rehoboam's decision to fortify cities was a strategic move in response to the political and military challenges he faced. After the kingdom split due to his harsh response to the northern tribes' request for lighter burdens (1 Kings 12:1-19), Rehoboam focused on strengthening the defenses of Judah. The fortified cities served as military strongholds and administrative centers, enhancing the security and stability of his kingdom.

The Bible records Rehoboam's efforts in 2 Chronicles 11:5-12 : "Rehoboam lived in Jerusalem and built up cities for defense in Judah. He built up Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa, Beth-zur, Soco, Adullam, Gath, Mareshah, Ziph, Adoraim, Lachish, Azekah, Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron, which are fortified cities in Judah and Benjamin. He strengthened their fortresses and put commanders in them, with supplies of food, oil, and wine. He also put shields and spears in all the cities and made them very strong. So Judah and Benjamin were his."

These efforts reflect Rehoboam's focus on consolidating his power and ensuring the safety of his people. The fortified cities not only provided protection against external threats but also served as a deterrent to potential internal dissent.

Temporary Prosperity

Rehoboam's reign experienced a period of temporary prosperity, largely due to the initial success of his fortification projects and the loyalty of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. The influx of priests and Levites from the northern kingdom, who migrated to Judah due to Jeroboam's idolatrous practices, also contributed to the spiritual and cultural strength of Rehoboam's kingdom (2 Chronicles 11:13-17).

The Bible notes this period of prosperity in 2 Chronicles 11:17 : "So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah and supported Rehoboam son of Solomon for three years, because they walked in the way of David and Solomon for three years."

However, this prosperity was short-lived. Rehoboam's failure to remain faithful to the covenant with God led to divine judgment. In the fifth year of his reign, Shishak, king of Egypt, invaded Judah and plundered the treasures of the temple and the royal palace (1 Kings 14:25-26; 2 Chronicles 12:1-9). This invasion marked the end of Rehoboam's temporary prosperity and highlighted the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

Rehoboam's reign serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God and the fleeting nature of earthly prosperity. His efforts to build fortified cities demonstrate a king's responsibility to protect and provide for his people, yet his ultimate failure underscores the necessity of spiritual obedience and reliance on divine guidance.2 Chronicles 11:5-23
And Rehoboam dwelled in Jerusalem, and built cities for defense in Judah.
Nave's Topical Index

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

Who was Ahijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus