2 chronicles 10:5 - He said to them, “Come again to me after three days.” So the people departed.

Generated Verse: 2 chronicles 10:5

What does "2 chronicles 10:5" mean?


This verse, 2 Chronicles 10:5, sets the stage for the rebellion that ultimately led to the division of the Kingdom of Israel. To understand it, we need to look at the context:

King Rehoboam: Rehoboam was the son of Solomon, known for his wisdom and prosperity. Upon Solomon's death, Rehoboam inherited the throne.
Complaints of the People: The people of Israel came to Rehoboam to voice their grievances. They complained about the heavy burdens imposed upon them by Solomon, likely referring to heavy taxes and forced labor that funded Solomon's ambitious building projects.
"Come again to me after three days": This is Rehoboam's response to the people's complaints. He doesn't immediately address their concerns. Instead, he asks for three days to consider the matter. This is a delaying tactic, giving him time to seek advice.
"So the people departed": The people, hopeful for a resolution, leave to await Rehoboam's decision.

Meaning and Significance:

Opportunity for Rehoboam: The three-day reprieve gave Rehoboam a chance to listen to the people and act wisely. He could have shown compassion and addressed their grievances, potentially holding the kingdom together.
Foeshadowing of Failure: However, the verse also hints at Rehoboam's potential misstep. The fact that he needs time to consider suggests a lack of understanding or empathy towards the people's plight. The delay allows resentment to fester and gives time for advisors to influence him, and ultimately lead to a bad decision.
Turning Point: This verse marks a critical turning point in Israelite history. The next few verses in chapter 10 describe how Rehoboam rejects the advice of the elders (who urged him to lighten the people's burden) and instead listens to his younger advisors (who advocated for even harsher treatment). This ultimately leads to the northern tribes of Israel revolting and forming their own kingdom.

In essence, the verse "He said to them, “Come again to me after three days.” So the people departed" signifies a crucial moment where Rehoboam had a chance to respond to the people's needs, but his delay ultimately led to disastrous consequences and the division of the kingdom. It's a story about leadership, the importance of listening to the people, and the potential consequences of pride and poor decision-making.

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