Rehoboam was the son of Solomon and the grandson of David, ascending to the throne of Israel around 930 B.C. His reign is notably marked by the division of the united kingdom of Israel into two separate entities: the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. This division had profound implications for the history of the Israelites and is a pivotal moment in biblical history.

Ascension to the Throne: Rehoboam's reign began after the death of his father, Solomon. The transition of power is recorded in 1 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 10. Rehoboam traveled to Shechem, where all Israel had gathered to make him king. This event underscores the initial unity and the expectation that Rehoboam would continue the legacy of his father.

The People's Request: Upon his ascension, the people of Israel, led by Jeroboam son of Nebat, approached Rehoboam with a request to lighten the harsh labor and heavy yoke imposed by Solomon. They sought relief from the burdensome policies that had been established during Solomon's reign, particularly the forced labor and high taxes used to support his extensive building projects, including the Temple and his palace.

Rehoboam's Response: Rehoboam sought counsel on how to respond to the people's request. He first consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon. They advised him to be a servant to the people and speak kindly to them, suggesting that this would secure their loyalty (1 Kings 12:7). However, Rehoboam rejected their advice and instead consulted the young men he had grown up with, who advised him to increase the burden on the people, saying, "My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist" (1 Kings 12:10).

The Division of the Kingdom: Rehoboam's decision to follow the advice of the young men led to a significant revolt. When he announced his intention to increase the burdens, the ten northern tribes rejected his rule, declaring, "What portion do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, O Israel!" (1 Kings 12:16). This marked the division of the kingdom, with Jeroboam becoming the king of the northern kingdom of Israel, while Rehoboam retained control over the southern kingdom of Judah, which included the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.

Rehoboam's Reign in Judah: Rehoboam reigned over Judah for 17 years, as recorded in 1 Kings 14:21. His reign was characterized by a decline in spiritual fidelity and moral integrity. The people of Judah engaged in practices that were detestable to the LORD, including idolatry and the establishment of high places, sacred stones, and Asherah poles (1 Kings 14:23-24).

Conflict and Consequences: The division of the kingdom led to ongoing conflict between Israel and Judah. In the fifth year of Rehoboam's reign, Shishak, king of Egypt, attacked Jerusalem and carried off the treasures of the house of the LORD and the royal palace (1 Kings 14:25-26). This invasion was seen as a divine judgment for the unfaithfulness of the people and their king.

Legacy: Rehoboam's reign is a cautionary tale of leadership and the consequences of forsaking wise counsel and the covenant with God. His failure to heed the advice of the elders and his harsh policies led to the fracturing of the kingdom, a division that would have lasting effects on the history of the Israelites. The narrative of Rehoboam serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, wisdom, and adherence to God's commandments in leadership.