Old Testament
1 Kings 14:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, took the throne in Judah when he was 41 years old.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Meanwhile, Solomon's son Rehoboam was ruling in Judah. He was 41 years old when he became king, and he reigned for 17 years in Jerusalem — the city the LORD had chosen from all the tribes of Israel as the place for his name. His mother was Naamah, an Ammonitess.
And Rehoboam the son of Solomon reigned in Judah. Rehoboam was forty and one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city which the LORD did choose out of all the tribes of Israel, to put his name there. And his mother’s name was Naamah an Ammonitess.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, took the throne in Judah when he was 41 years old. He ruled for 17 years from Jerusalem, a city chosen by God as a special place for His presence among the people of Israel. His mother, Naamah, was from Ammon, which highlights the diverse backgrounds in Israel's leadership. Rehoboam's reign came at a critical time, as the nation was still recovering from the glory days of his father. His decisions would shape the future of Judah and its relationship with the other tribes of Israel. The mention of Jerusalem emphasizes its importance as a spiritual center. Rehoboam's story serves as a reminder of the weight of leadership and the impact of one's heritage on their rule. His reign was marked by challenges that would test his wisdom and strength as a leader, setting the stage for the events that followed in Israel's history. Understanding Rehoboam's background helps us appreciate the complexities of leadership and the importance of making wise choices.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Kings 14:21 to your life
Reflect on your own leadership roles, whether at work, home, or in your community. Consider how your background influences your decisions. Strive to make choices that positively impact those around you, just as Rehoboam's decisions shaped the future of his kingdom. Seek wisdom in your actions and relationships with others. Be mindful of the legacy you create through your leadership style and choices. Keep learning and growing.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
Who was Rehoboam in the Bible?
Rehoboam was the son of King Solomon and the first king of Judah after the kingdom split. He became king at the age of 41 and ruled for 17 years from Jerusalem, which was chosen by God as a significant city for His presence among the Israelites. His reign is marked by challenges and decisions that would impact the future of Judah and its relationship with the other tribes of Israel.
What is the significance of Jerusalem in Rehoboam's reign?
Jerusalem holds great significance in Rehoboam's reign as it was the city chosen by God to put His name and presence among the people of Israel. It served as the spiritual center of the nation, and Rehoboam's rule from this city emphasized its importance in the religious and cultural identity of the Israelites. His decisions made during this time would influence the spiritual direction of Judah.
What challenges did Rehoboam face as king?
Rehoboam faced several challenges during his reign, including the division of the kingdom, as ten tribes rejected his rule and followed Jeroboam. He had to navigate the complexities of leadership, balancing the expectations of his people with the legacy of his father, Solomon. His decisions regarding taxation and governance led to discontent among the tribes, ultimately shaping the future of the nation.
How does Rehoboam's background influence his leadership?
Rehoboam's background, being the son of Solomon and Naamah, an Ammonitess, played a crucial role in his leadership style. His mixed heritage may have influenced his perspectives and decisions, highlighting the importance of understanding one's roots in leadership. His reign serves as a reminder that leaders must be aware of how their backgrounds can affect their choices and the legacy they leave behind.

The Book of 1 Kings
1 Kings 1: Solomon Becomes King
As King David is old and frail, his fourth son, Adonijah, makes a bid for the throne. He gathers the support of Joab, David's long-time military commander, and Abiathar the priest, and begins to act as king, complete with a royal procession. However, he does not invite the prophet Nathan, the priest Zadok, Benaiah (the captain of David's personal guard), or his own half-brother, Solomon.
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