Why did the kingdom of Israel divide after Solomon?

The kingdom split after Solomon because of his idolatry, oppressive policies, and failure to heed God’s commands. God had already decreed the division as judgment for Solomon’s sins, and his son Rehoboam’s harsh leadership triggered its fulfillment.

After Solomon’s death, Rehoboam went to Shechem to be made king. The people, led by Jeroboam, requested relief from heavy burdens:

“Your father made our yoke heavy; now therefore, lighten the burdensome service… and we will serve you.”
(1 Kings 12:4)

Rehoboam consulted both the elders and the younger men. He rejected the elders’ wise counsel and followed the advice of his peers:

“My little finger shall be thicker than my father’s waist… I will add to your yoke… I will chastise you with scourges!”
(1 Kings 12:10–11)

The result was immediate rebellion:

“When all Israel saw that the king did not listen to them… all Israel departed to their tents.”
(1 Kings 12:16)

Ten tribes followed Jeroboam, forming the northern kingdom of Israel. Only Judah (and later Benjamin) remained loyal to Rehoboam in the southern kingdom.

But the division was not merely political, it was divine judgment:

“Thus says the Lord: ‘Behold, I will tear the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon… because they have forsaken Me… and have not walked in My ways.’”
(1 Kings 11:31–33)

Solomon’s idolatry had corrupted the nation. God fulfilled His word by dividing the kingdom, yet He left a remnant for David’s sake:

“Nevertheless I will not tear away the whole kingdom… for the sake of My servant David.”
(1 Kings 11:34)

The split became a defining moment in Israel’s history, marking the decline of national unity and spiritual fidelity.

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