Introduction

Abijam, also known as Abijah, was the son of Rehoboam and the grandson of Solomon. He reigned as the king of Judah for a brief period following the death of his father. His reign is recorded in the biblical books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, providing insights into his leadership, religious practices, and military engagements.

Historical Context

Abijam's reign is set in the divided kingdom period, a time when Israel and Judah were separate entities following the united monarchy under Saul, David, and Solomon. Abijam ruled over Judah, the southern kingdom, while Jeroboam I reigned over the northern kingdom of Israel. This division was marked by political tension and religious divergence, as the northern kingdom established its own centers of worship distinct from Jerusalem.

Biblical Account

The primary biblical account of Abijam's reign is found in 1 Kings 15:1-8 and 2 Chronicles 13. According to 1 Kings 15:1-3 , "In the eighteenth year of the reign of Jeroboam son of Nebat, Abijam became king of Judah, and he reigned in Jerusalem three years. His mother’s name was Maacah daughter of Abishalom. Abijam walked in all the sins his father had committed before him, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God, as the heart of his forefather David had been."

Religious Practices

Abijam's reign is characterized by a continuation of the idolatrous practices initiated by his father, Rehoboam. The biblical narrative indicates that Abijam did not fully commit to the worship of Yahweh, failing to remove the high places and allowing the people to continue in their idolatrous ways. Despite this, the LORD maintained the Davidic line for the sake of David, as noted in 1 Kings 15:4 : "Nevertheless, for the sake of David, the LORD his God gave him a lamp in Jerusalem by raising up a son to succeed him and by making Jerusalem strong."

Military Engagements

One of the notable events during Abijam's reign was his conflict with Jeroboam I of Israel. 2 Chronicles 13 provides a detailed account of a significant battle between the two kingdoms. Abijam, standing on Mount Zemaraim, addressed Jeroboam and the Israelites, asserting the legitimacy of the Davidic dynasty and the covenant with the LORD. He accused Jeroboam of leading Israel into idolatry and rebellion against the LORD.

In 2 Chronicles 13:10-12 , Abijam declared, "But as for us, the LORD is our God, and we have not forsaken Him. The priests who minister to the LORD are sons of Aaron, and the Levites attend to their duties. Every morning and every evening they present burnt offerings and fragrant incense to the LORD. They set out the showbread on the ceremonially clean table and light the lamps of the gold lampstand every evening. For we keep the charge of the LORD our God, but you have forsaken Him. Now behold, God is with us at our head, and His priests with their signal trumpets will sound the battle cry against you. O children of Israel, do not fight against the LORD, the God of your fathers, for you will not succeed."

The LORD granted victory to Abijam and Judah, as they relied on Him during the battle. This victory underscored the divine favor that continued to rest upon the house of David despite Abijam's personal failings.

Legacy

Abijam's reign was short, lasting only three years. He was succeeded by his son Asa, who would bring significant religious reforms to Judah. Despite his shortcomings, Abijam's reign is a testament to the enduring covenantal promises made to David, which preserved the Davidic line and ultimately pointed to the coming of the Messiah. His account serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God and the consequences of straying from His commandments.