Topical Bible: Religion: National: Subverted by Jeroboam

◄ Religion: National: Subverted by Jeroboam ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The subversion of national religion by Jeroboam marks a significant turning point in the religious history of Israel, as recorded in the Old Testament. Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel following the division of the united monarchy, played a pivotal role in altering the religious landscape of the nation. His actions are detailed primarily in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles.

Background and Context

Jeroboam was an Ephraimite and a servant of King Solomon who rose to prominence due to his industrious nature (1 Kings 11:28). Following Solomon's death, the kingdom was divided due to Solomon's idolatry and the subsequent judgment pronounced by the prophet Ahijah (1 Kings 11:29-39). Jeroboam was given control over the ten northern tribes, forming the kingdom of Israel, while Rehoboam, Solomon's son, retained the southern kingdom of Judah.

Religious Innovations and Subversion

Jeroboam's primary concern was the potential reunification of the kingdoms if the people continued to worship in Jerusalem, the religious center located in Judah. To prevent this, Jeroboam instituted significant religious changes that subverted the established worship of Yahweh.

1. Golden Calves at Bethel and Dan: Jeroboam set up two golden calves, one in Bethel and the other in Dan, declaring, "Here are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt" (1 Kings 12:28). This act was a direct violation of the first and second commandments, which prohibit idolatry and the making of graven images (Exodus 20:3-4).

2. Alternative Worship Centers: By establishing these centers of worship, Jeroboam effectively created an alternative religious system that rivaled the temple in Jerusalem. This move was politically motivated to consolidate his rule and prevent the people from returning to Rehoboam.

3. Non-Levitical Priesthood: Jeroboam appointed priests from among all the people, not restricting the priesthood to the Levites as prescribed by Mosaic Law (1 Kings 12:31). This further undermined the divinely ordained religious order.

4. New Religious Festivals: He instituted a festival on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, similar to the Feast of Tabernacles held in Judah, but at a time of his own choosing (1 Kings 12:32-33). This was another attempt to create a distinct religious identity for the northern kingdom.

Consequences and Legacy

Jeroboam's actions had profound and lasting consequences for the northern kingdom. His establishment of idolatrous worship practices led Israel into sin, as repeatedly noted in the biblical narrative (1 Kings 14:16). The phrase "the sins of Jeroboam" became synonymous with idolatry and apostasy, setting a precedent for future kings of Israel who continued in his ways.

The prophets, including Hosea and Amos, later condemned these practices, calling the people to repentance and a return to the worship of Yahweh alone. Despite these warnings, the northern kingdom persisted in its idolatry, ultimately leading to its downfall and exile at the hands of the Assyrians in 722 BC.

Jeroboam's subversion of the national religion serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising true worship for political expediency and the severe consequences of leading a nation away from the commandments of God.