Old Testament
2 Chronicles 11:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Rehoboam, the king of Judah, had many wives and concubines, but he had a special affection for Maachah, the daughter of Absalom.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Rehoboam loved Maachah, the daughter of Absalom, more than any of his other wives or concubines. In all, he had eighteen wives and sixty concubines, and he fathered twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters.
And Rehoboam loved Maachah the daughter of Absalom above all his wives and his concubines: (for he took eighteen wives, and threescore concubines; and begat twenty and eight sons, and threescore daughters.)
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Rehoboam, the king of Judah, had many wives and concubines, but he had a special affection for Maachah, the daughter of Absalom. This love stood out among his eighteen wives and sixty concubines. He fathered a large family, with twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters. This detail highlights the complexity of royal life, where personal relationships often intertwine with political alliances. Rehoboam's preference for Maachah may suggest a deeper emotional connection or a strategic choice, as her lineage connected him to Absalom, a significant figure in Israel's history. The sheer number of his family members reflects the wealth and status of a king, but it also raises questions about the challenges of managing such a large household. Ultimately, this verse gives us a glimpse into the personal life of a king, showing that even those in power have their favorites and complex relationships. It reminds us that love and family dynamics can be intricate, even in the highest positions of authority.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Chronicles 11:21 to your life
Consider how personal relationships shape your life. Just as Rehoboam had favorites, we often have people we connect with more deeply. Reflect on the importance of nurturing those relationships while balancing other commitments. Love can be a guiding force in our decisions and priorities. Make time for those who matter most to you, just as Rehoboam did with Maachah.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Chronicles 11:21 mean?
2 Chronicles 11:21 describes King Rehoboam's preference for Maachah, the daughter of Absalom, over his other wives and concubines. It highlights his large family and the complexities of royal relationships, suggesting that personal affection can influence political alliances.
What is the significance of Maachah in 2 Chronicles 11:21?
Maachah is significant in 2 Chronicles 11:21 because she is favored by Rehoboam, indicating a special bond. Her lineage connects Rehoboam to Absalom, a notable figure in Israel's history, which may have strategic implications for his reign.
How many wives and children did Rehoboam have according to 2 Chronicles 11:21?
According to 2 Chronicles 11:21, Rehoboam had eighteen wives and sixty concubines, and he fathered twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters. This reflects the wealth and status of a king, as well as the challenges of managing such a large family.
What does 2 Chronicles 11:21 reveal about royal life?
2 Chronicles 11:21 reveals that royal life is complex, with personal relationships often intertwined with political considerations. It shows that even kings have favorites and face challenges in balancing family dynamics with their responsibilities.
The Book of 2 Chronicles
2 Chronicles 1: Solomon's Wisdom and Wealth
Solomon, the son of David, is now firmly established in his kingdom, and the Lord his God is with him, magnifying him exceedingly. Solomon speaks to all Israel—the commanders, judges, and leaders—and the entire assembly goes with him to the high place at Gibeon, where the Tabernacle of the Lord that Moses had made in the wilderness is located. The Ark of God, however, is in Jerusalem, in the tent that David had pitched for it. At Gibeon, Solomon goes up to the bronze altar before the Lord and offers a thousand burnt offerings upon it.
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