1 kings 12:17 - But as for the children of Israel who lived in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them.

Generated Verse: 1 kings 12:17

What does "1 kings 12:17" mean?


This verse, 1 Kings 12:17, is crucial in understanding the division of the Kingdom of Israel after the death of Solomon. It means that while the ten northern tribes of Israel rebelled against Rehoboam, Solomon's son and successor, and formed their own kingdom (Israel), the people of Israel who lived within the cities of the southern territory of Judah remained loyal to Rehoboam.

Here's a breakdown:

"But as for the children of Israel...": This phrase sets up a contrast. It indicates that something different is about to happen to a specific group of people.
"...who lived in the cities of Judah...": This is key. It specifies that the Israelites being referred to were not living in the northern territories, but within the cities of the southern territory of Judah. The tribe of Judah was the core of the southern kingdom, along with the tribe of Benjamin, and some Levites.
"...Rehoboam reigned over them.": This is the consequence. These Israelites (those living in Judah) accepted Rehoboam as their king and remained part of his kingdom.

In essence, the verse highlights that the kingdom was splitting. While the northern tribes were in revolt, the southern tribes, specifically those living in Judah, remained under Rehoboam's rule, forming the Kingdom of Judah.

Context is essential: To fully grasp the significance, it's vital to understand the events leading up to this verse:

The northern tribes were unhappy with the heavy taxes and forced labor imposed by Solomon and Rehoboam.
They requested that Rehoboam lighten their burden, but he refused and threatened even harsher treatment.
This led to a rebellion, with the northern tribes choosing Jeroboam as their king, creating the Kingdom of Israel.

Therefore, 1 Kings 12:17 is not saying that all Israelites universally accepted Rehoboam. It is very precisely indicating that only those Israelites dwelling within the geographical boundaries of Judah (and those loyal to the house of David) continued to acknowledge him as their legitimate ruler. This verse underlines the establishment of two distinct kingdoms: Israel in the north and Judah in the south.

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