Topical Encyclopedia The "Calves of Jeroboam" refer to the two golden calves that King Jeroboam I of Israel established as objects of worship in the northern kingdom. This act is recorded in 1 Kings 12:25-33 and is considered a significant sin in the history of Israel, leading to widespread idolatry and apostasy.Historical Context After the division of the united monarchy following Solomon's reign, Jeroboam became the first king of the newly formed northern kingdom of Israel. Concerned that his subjects might return to the house of David if they continued to worship in Jerusalem, Jeroboam sought to establish alternative centers of worship. He set up two golden calves, placing one in Bethel and the other in Dan, declaring to the people, "Here are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt" (1 Kings 12:28). Religious Implications Jeroboam's actions were a direct violation of the first two commandments given by God, which prohibit the making of idols and the worship of other gods (Exodus 20:3-4). By introducing these calves, Jeroboam led the people into idolatry, a sin that would have lasting consequences for the nation. The worship of these calves is repeatedly condemned in the biblical narrative, as seen in 1 Kings 14:9, where it is stated, "You have done more evil than all who were before you. You have made for yourself other gods and molten images to provoke Me to anger, and you have cast Me behind your back" . Prophetic Condemnation The prophets of Israel consistently denounced the worship of the golden calves. Hosea, in particular, speaks against this idolatry, declaring, "With their silver and gold they made idols for themselves, to their own destruction" (Hosea 8:4). The prophet Amos also criticizes the idolatrous practices at Bethel, warning of impending judgment (Amos 3:14). Consequences for Israel The establishment of the golden calves set a precedent for idolatry in the northern kingdom, contributing to its spiritual decline and eventual downfall. The sin of Jeroboam became a benchmark for evil, as subsequent kings of Israel were often judged by whether they followed in his idolatrous ways. The phrase "the sins of Jeroboam" is frequently used in the biblical text to describe the persistent idolatry that plagued the northern kingdom (1 Kings 16:26). Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the worship of the calves represents a fundamental breach of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It underscores the dangers of syncretism and the human tendency to replace true worship with man-made substitutes. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the importance of maintaining fidelity to His revealed will. In summary, the calves of Jeroboam symbolize a pivotal moment of rebellion against God, leading to the spiritual and moral decline of the northern kingdom. This act of idolatry is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative, illustrating the profound guilt and consequences of forsaking the worship of the one true God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 14:15,16For the LORD shall smite Israel, as a reed is shaken in the water, and he shall root up Israel out of this good land, which he gave to their fathers, and shall scatter them beyond the river, because they have made their groves, provoking the LORD to anger. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 17:22,23 Library Catholic Spirit The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... The Pilgrim's Progress Resources Why did Jehu destroy the Baal worship in Israel but not the worship of golden calves? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the sun of righteousness (Malachi 4:2)? | GotQuestions.org When and how was Israel conquered by the Assyrians? | GotQuestions.org Calves: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Calves of Jeroboam were Kissed in Adoration Calves of Jeroboam: Called The: Calves of Bethaven Calves of Jeroboam: Called The: Calves of Samaria Calves of Jeroboam: Called The: Golden Calves Calves of Jeroboam: Designed to Represent God Calves of Jeroboam: Feasts Appointed For Calves of Jeroboam: God's People Refused to Worship Calves of Jeroboam: Guilt of Making Calves of Jeroboam: Guilt of Worshipping Calves of Jeroboam: Made of Gold Calves of Jeroboam: Made to Prevent the Israelites Going to Jerusalem Calves of Jeroboam: Placed in Dan and Bethel Calves of Jeroboam: Predictions Respecting: Captivity Calves of Jeroboam: Predictions Respecting: Destruction Calves of Jeroboam: Predictions Respecting: Punishment of the Worshippers Calves of Jeroboam: Priests Appointed For Calves of Jeroboam: Probably from an Egyptian Model Calves of Jeroboam: Sacrifices offered To Calves of Jeroboam: Worship of Adopted by Succeeding Kings Calves of Jeroboam: Worship of Became the Sin of Israel Calves of Jeroboam: Worship of Denounced by a Prophet Related Terms |
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