Split of the Kingdom: Rehoboam and Jeroboam
Historical Background and Political Discontent
The division of the united monarchy into two separate kingdoms marks one of the most significant turning points in Israel’s history. Upon the death of Solomon around 930 BCE, his son Rehoboam ascends the throne. However, rather than consolidating his rule through wisdom and diplomacy, Rehoboam alienates the northern tribes by rejecting their plea for reduced taxation and labour burdens, opting instead for a harsher approach influenced by his younger advisers (1 Kings 12:1–15; 2 Chronicles 10).
This miscalculation leads to a formal schism. Ten northern tribes break away from the Davidic dynasty, declaring Jeroboam I as their king. Jeroboam, previously a servant of Solomon who had been prophesied by the prophet Ahijah to rule over part of Israel (1 Kings 11:29–39), becomes the first monarch of the newly formed northern kingdom.
Formation of Two Kingdoms
The split results in two distinct political and religious entities:
The Northern Kingdom: Israel (Capital: Samaria)
Comprised of ten tribes, the northern kingdom becomes known as Israel. Initially centred in Shechem and later in Tirzah and Samaria, its kings are not descended from David and are often portrayed in the biblical narrative as politically unstable and spiritually corrupt. The northern kingdom sees frequent dynastic changes, assassinations, and idolatrous practices, all of which contribute to its eventual downfall in 722 BCE.
Jeroboam, concerned that religious pilgrimage to Jerusalem might undermine his authority, establishes alternative worship centres in Bethel and Dan. He erects golden calves and institutes a rival priesthood and calendar (1 Kings 12:26–33), thereby initiating a pattern of institutionalised idolatry. This act becomes a theological benchmark in biblical literature, with subsequent kings often judged as continuing “the sins of Jeroboam.”
The Southern Kingdom: Judah (Capital: Jerusalem)
Retaining the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, the southern kingdom remains under the Davidic line and preserves the central sanctuary in Jerusalem, including the Temple built by Solomon. While not immune to idolatry and political failure, Judah benefits from periods of religious reform and prophetic leadership, notably under kings such as Hezekiah and Josiah. The continuity of Davidic kingship and the presence of the Temple reinforce Judah’s identity as the custodian of covenantal promise.
Theological Implications and Prophetic Warnings
The division of the kingdom is not merely a political crisis but a profound theological rupture. It illustrates the consequences of covenantal infidelity and unjust governance. The rejection of divine instruction by Solomon and Rehoboam, and the idolatrous innovations of Jeroboam, reveal a failure to uphold the covenantal responsibilities that underpin Israel’s national identity.
In response, God raises up prophets in both kingdoms to call rulers and people to repentance. Figures such as Ahijah, Elijah, and Elisha in the north, and later Isaiah, Micah, and Jeremiah in the south, play pivotal roles in critiquing corruption, defending the oppressed, and calling for renewed faithfulness to God. Their messages emphasise the themes of justice, righteousness, and covenant loyalty, often warning of impending judgement should the people continue in disobedience.
Socio-Religious Consequences
The establishment of rival cultic sites and the fragmentation of worship practices deeply affect the spiritual cohesion of the Israelite people. The northern kingdom’s break from Jerusalem, both politically and religiously, creates a lasting division not only in governance but in theological orientation. This division would later be remembered with sorrow and longing for unity in Jewish tradition and would frame subsequent prophetic hopes for restoration and messianic reunion.
Conclusion
The split of the kingdom under Rehoboam and Jeroboam marks the beginning of a long era of division, decline, and prophetic intervention in Israel’s history. While both kingdoms continue to claim the heritage of Abraham and the covenant of Sinai, their trajectories diverge dramatically. The northern kingdom quickly descends into idolatry and instability, while the southern kingdom, though also flawed, preserves the Davidic line and the Jerusalem Temple. This period sets the stage for intensified prophetic activity and eventual judgement, yet also sows the seeds of hope for future restoration under a unified, righteous king.