Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, became the king of Judah following the death of his father. His reign is marked by a significant departure from the religious fidelity that characterized the early years of his grandfather David's rule. Rehoboam's apostasy is a pivotal moment in the history of the divided kingdom, illustrating the spiritual decline that can accompany political and social upheaval.

Background and Ascension to the Throne

Rehoboam's ascension to the throne is recorded in 1 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 10. Upon Solomon's death, Rehoboam traveled to Shechem, where all Israel had gathered to make him king. However, his harsh response to the people's request for lighter burdens led to the division of the united monarchy. The ten northern tribes rebelled, forming the separate kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam, while Rehoboam retained control over Judah and Benjamin.

Religious Decline and Apostasy

Rehoboam's reign in Judah is characterized by a departure from the worship of Yahweh, as he failed to maintain the religious reforms instituted by his father Solomon. 2 Chronicles 12:1 states, "After Rehoboam had established his sovereignty and royal power, he and all Israel with him forsook the law of the LORD." This forsaking of the law led to widespread idolatry and the establishment of high places, sacred stones, and Asherah poles, as noted in 1 Kings 14:23-24 : "They also built for themselves high places, sacred pillars, and Asherah poles on every high hill and under every green tree. There were even male shrine prostitutes in the land; they imitated all the abominations of the nations that the LORD had driven out before the Israelites."

Consequences of Apostasy

Rehoboam's apostasy had immediate and severe consequences. In the fifth year of his reign, Shishak, the king of Egypt, attacked Jerusalem and carried off the treasures of the house of the LORD and the royal palace, including the gold shields Solomon had made (1 Kings 14:25-26). This invasion is seen as divine retribution for Judah's unfaithfulness. 2 Chronicles 12:5 records the prophet Shemaiah's message to Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah: "Thus says the LORD: 'You have abandoned Me; therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak.'"

Partial Repentance and Continued Struggles

In response to the prophet's rebuke, Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah humbled themselves, acknowledging the LORD's righteousness (2 Chronicles 12:6). As a result, the LORD's anger was partially turned away, and Jerusalem was not completely destroyed. However, Judah became subject to Egypt, serving as a reminder of their subjugation due to their unfaithfulness (2 Chronicles 12:7-8).

Despite this temporary repentance, Rehoboam's reign continued to be marked by spiritual and political instability. The chronicler notes that "he did evil because he had not set his heart on seeking the LORD" (2 Chronicles 12:14). His failure to fully commit to the LORD's ways resulted in ongoing conflict with Jeroboam and internal strife within Judah.

Legacy

Rehoboam's apostasy set a precedent for the kings of Judah, many of whom followed in his footsteps by allowing or actively promoting idolatry. His reign serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of forsaking the covenant with God and the consequences that follow. The narrative of Rehoboam's apostasy underscores the importance of steadfastness in faith and the perils of turning away from divine commandments.