2 Chronicles 10:12-14
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Look closely at the timing: Jeroboam and the people waited two full days after Rehoboam's initial demand before returning. This wasn't an immediate capitulation but a deliberate pause, giving Rehoboam a chance to reflect and, crucially, misusing that time for the people to solidify their unity and grievances. Their patient, yet firm, return on the third day highlights how Rehoboam's initial dismissiveness and lack of urgency created space for further division.
So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam the third day, as the king said, “Come to me again the third day.” And the king answered them harshly; and forsaking the counsel of the old men, King Rehoboam spoke to them according to the counsel of the young men, saying, “My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add to it. My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
King Solomon's son, Rehoboam, has just inherited the kingdom but is facing a rebellion from the northern tribes who demand relief from heavy taxes and labor. After a tense council with his advisors, Rehoboam decides to stall for three days, promising an answer to their demands. This verse marks the moment the people return, expecting the king to finally address their grievances.
Jeroboam and the people returned, expecting a resolution. But what happened on that third day wasn't just a meeting; it was a turning point. What lessons are hidden in this seemingly simple appointment?
The phrase 'the third day' is significant in Scripture. It often marks a time of divine intervention, testing, or a pivotal moment. Here, it represents the crucial window of opportunity for King Rehoboam to seek wisdom and make a wise decision.
The people came with a specific grievance, asking for relief. Their request wasn't unreasonable, but how the king responded would determine everything. What does this reveal about responding to genuine concerns?
This encounter at the 'third day' is where the seeds of division are sown. The people weren't just asking for less work; they were seeking a lighter yoke. They had experienced hardship under Solomon and hoped for a more compassionate rule.
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Understand the original words
ʿām · Hebrew Noun
Refers to the collective body of citizens or subjects belonging to a nation or leader. It highlights the social and covenantal bond between a ruler and those he is responsible to lead.
ʿāzav · Hebrew Verb
The act of ignoring, turning away from, or rejecting advice, instruction, or a previous commitment. In a biblical context, it often refers to turning away from God’s wisdom or godly counsel to pursue selfish or foolish paths.
ʿēṣāh · Hebrew Noun
A suggestion, plan, or shared wisdom provided for decision-making. Biblically, it emphasizes the importance of seeking godly or experienced input to ensure wise leadership and adherence to God's will.
This moment captures the critical point where Rehoboam's pride and poor counsel led directly to the shattering of the united kingdom David and Solomon had ruled.
c. 970 BC
Death of King Solomon
Solomon, son of David, ruled over a united Israel for 40 years. His death marked a turning point for the kingdom.
c. 970 BC
Solomon's Son Rehoboam Ascends Throne
Rehoboam, Solomon's son, was the chosen successor, but faced immediate challenges to his authority.
c. 970 BC
People Appeal to Rehoboam
The people, led by Jeroboam, approached the new king Rehoboam to ask for relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon.
c. 970 BC
Rehoboam Seeks Counsel
Rehoboam first consulted the elders who had advised Solomon, who recommended a compassionate response to the people's request.
c. 970 BC— this verse
Rehoboam Consults Younger Advisors
Rejecting the elders' advice, Rehoboam sought counsel from younger men his own age, who advised a harsh and intimidating approach.
c. 970 BC
Division of the Kingdom
Following Rehoboam's harsh response, the northern tribes revolted, and the united kingdom of Israel split into two: the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern Kingdom of Judah.
This passage is the parallel account in the book of Kings, showing the same event and the direct continuation of the story where the division of the kingdom begins.
Proverbs 15:1This verse speaks about a harsh answer stirring up anger, which directly relates to the consequence of Rehoboam's harsh response that followed this meeting, ultimately leading to the kingdom's split.
Ecclesiastes 10:2This wisdom passage describes how the influence of a righteous person is diminished by the presence of a fool, which can be seen in Jeroboam's wise counsel being ignored in favor of the foolish advice given to Rehoboam.
1 Kings 11:26-40This passage provides the backstory of Jeroboam, showing his initial position of authority and the prophecy that he would rule over the ten tribes, setting the stage for this pivotal moment.
Look closely at the timing: Jeroboam and the people waited two full days after Rehoboam's initial demand before returning. This wasn't an immediate capitulation but a deliberate pause, giving Rehoboam a chance to reflect and, crucially, misusing that time for the people to solidify their unity and grievances. Their patient, yet firm, return on the third day highlights how Rehoboam's initial dismissiveness and lack of urgency created space for further division.
King Solomon's son, Rehoboam, has just inherited the kingdom but is facing a rebellion from the northern tribes who demand relief from heavy taxes and labor. After a tense council with his advisors, Rehoboam decides to stall for three days, promising an answer to their demands. This verse marks the moment the people return, expecting the king to finally address their grievances.
King Solomon's son, Rehoboam, has just inherited the kingdom but is facing a rebellion from the northern tribes who demand relief from heavy taxes and labor. After a tense council with his advisors, Rehoboam decides to stall for three days, promising an answer to their demands. This verse marks the moment the people return, expecting the king to finally address their grievances.
"So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam the third day, as the king said, “Come to me again the third day.” And the king answered them harshly; and forsaking the counsel of the old men, King Rehoboam spoke to them according to the c…" — Look closely at the timing: Jeroboam and the people waited two full days after Rehoboam's initial demand before returning. This wasn't an immediate capitulation but a deliberate pause, giving Rehob…
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Last reviewed October 2026
