Rehoboam
First King of Judah
930-913 BC
Father
Solomon
Spouse
Mahalath, Maacah
Children
Abijah
Biography
Rehoboam inherited a united but overtaxed kingdom. When the people asked for lighter burdens, he rejected the counsel of elders and threatened harsher treatment. Ten tribes revolted under Jeroboam, leaving Rehoboam with only Judah and Benjamin. He fortified cities but abandoned the Lord after three years. Egypt's Shishak invaded and plundered the Temple.
Key Events
Followed young advisors
Ten tribes followed Jeroboam
Shishak plundered Temple
Key Verses
"My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier"
"He did evil because he had not set his heart on seeking the LORD"
Spiritual Significance
Rehoboam shows how pride and foolish counsel can destroy what took generations to build.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Initially sought God, fortified cities
Weaknesses
Pride, rejected wise counsel, later abandoned God
Lessons
Listen to experienced counsel. Pride leads to loss.