Political Structure and Dynastic Instability
The Northern Kingdom of Israel, established under Jeroboam I following the division of the united monarchy, comprises ten tribes and exists independently for approximately two centuries (c. 930–722 BCE). Its political history is marked by extraordinary instability, with nineteen kings from nine different dynasties, many of whom came to power through coups, assassinations, or popular uprisings. Unlike the Southern Kingdom of Judah, which maintained the Davidic lineage, Israel lacks dynastic continuity, contributing to its political fragility and religious deviation.

The biblical narrative consistently evaluates these kings negatively, using Jeroboam I’s religious apostasy—his establishment of golden calves at Bethel and Dan—as a theological standard against which subsequent rulers are judged. Phrases such as “he did not depart from all the sins of Jeroboam” recur throughout 1 and 2 Kings, underscoring the persistent idolatry that characterises the northern monarchy.

Religious Apostasy and Idolatrous Practices
From its inception, the Northern Kingdom rejects the Jerusalem Temple as the central site of worship. Jeroboam’s creation of alternative cultic centres introduces systemic idolatry, not only in terms of physical images but also in the redefinition of priesthood, feasts, and worship practices. These innovations are viewed in the biblical text not as mere political expedients but as profound violations of Israel’s covenantal obligations to Yahweh.

This theological deviation is compounded under subsequent rulers, particularly during the reign of Ahab and Jezebel, who promote the worship of Baal and Asherah (1 Kings 16:30–33). The integration of Canaanite religion into the national cult further deepens the kingdom’s spiritual corruption, leading to divine displeasure and prophetic confrontation.

Prophetic Witness: Elijah and Elisha
Amidst this climate of apostasy, God raises up prophets to confront the kings and call the people back to covenantal faithfulness. Elijah, active during the reign of Ahab, is a towering prophetic figure known for his bold defiance of royal power and his miraculous acts. His dramatic confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18) serves as a theological showdown between the God of Israel and the gods of Canaan. Elijah’s ministry is marked by solitude, persecution, and profound spiritual authority, symbolising the voice of divine truth in a corrupt society.

Elisha, Elijah’s successor, continues this prophetic ministry with a broader social reach. His miracles often focus on healing, provision, and justice, demonstrating God’s concern for both spiritual fidelity and social well-being. Together, Elijah and Elisha embody the prophetic tradition as agents of both judgement and grace, resisting royal corruption while sustaining a remnant faithful to Yahweh.

Decline and Fall to Assyria (722 BCE)
Despite occasional moments of reform or political resurgence, the Northern Kingdom continues its trajectory of decline. The final decades of Israel’s existence are marked by vassalage to foreign powers, internal instability, and ineffective leadership. In 722 BCE, the Assyrian Empire, under King Shalmaneser V and later Sargon II, captures the capital city of Samaria after a prolonged siege (2 Kings 17). This marks the formal end of the Northern Kingdom.

The Assyrians implement a policy of population displacement, deporting large numbers of Israelites and resettling foreign peoples in the region. This results in the intermingling of populations and the emergence of groups such as the Samaritans, who later play a complex role in post-exilic Jewish history. Theologically, the fall of Israel is interpreted as divine judgement for persistent idolatry and covenantal breach (2 Kings 17:7–23).

Theological Reflections and Legacy
The demise of the Northern Kingdom serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of covenant unfaithfulness. The prophetic literature frequently reflects on Israel’s fall as a warning to Judah and a call to repentance. Hosea, a prophet active in the final years of Israel, uses vivid imagery—such as unfaithful marriage and parental grief—to depict God’s heartbreak over Israel’s betrayal and His desire for restoration.

Despite its collapse, the Northern Kingdom is not forgotten in the wider biblical narrative. Prophets such as Isaiah and Ezekiel foresee a future reunification of the tribes and the reconstitution of a faithful remnant (Isaiah 11:12–13; Ezekiel 37:15–23). These eschatological hopes point beyond immediate judgement to a vision of redemption and unity under a messianic king.

Conclusion
The history of the Northern Kingdom of Israel is one of political turmoil, religious compromise, and prophetic confrontation. While its legacy is largely defined by failure, it also provides some of the most powerful narratives and theological insights in the Hebrew Bible. Through the ministry of prophets like Elijah and Elisha, and through the tragic outcome of national apostasy, the Northern Kingdom’s story underscores the enduring truth that covenant relationship with God requires not only ritual observance but steadfast obedience, justice, and faithfulness.