1 Kings 11:25

KJV

And he was an adversary to Israel all the days of Solomon, beside the mischief that Hadad [did]: and he abhorred Israel, and reigned over Syria.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he was an adversary {H7854} to Israel {H3478} all the days {H3117} of Solomon {H8010}, beside the mischief {H7451} that Hadad {H1908} did: and he abhorred {H6973} Israel {H3478}, and reigned {H4427} over Syria {H758}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He remained an adversary as long as Shlomo lived, causing difficulties in addition to those of Hadad. He detested Isra'el and ruled Aram.

Berean Standard Bible

Rezon was Israel’s enemy throughout the days of Solomon, adding to the trouble caused by Hadad. So Rezon ruled over Aram with hostility toward Israel.

American Standard Version

And he was an adversary to Israel all the days of Solomon, besides the mischief that Hadad did: and he abhorred Israel, and reigned over Syria.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 11:25 introduces Rezon, a significant and persistent adversary to Israel throughout the latter half of King Solomon's reign, specifically detailing his deep-seated animosity and his dominion over Syria. This verse underscores the direct consequences of Solomon's spiritual decline and idolatry, as God, in His righteous judgment, raises up external threats to disrupt the peace and security that had characterized the early years of his rule, foreshadowing the eventual division of the kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within [1 Kings 11](/1_kings/11 "1 Kings 11 - Solomon's Apostasy and Adversaries"), a pivotal chapter that marks a dramatic turning point in the narrative of King Solomon. Following a period of unparalleled wisdom, wealth, and peace, Solomon's heart turns away from the Lord due to the influence of his many foreign wives, leading him into idolatry ([1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Foreign Wives and Idolatry")). As a direct consequence of his disobedience, God declares that He will tear the kingdom from Solomon's son, though not entirely for David's sake ([1 Kings 11:9-13](/1_kings/11-9 "1 Kings 11:9-13 - God's Judgment on Solomon")). Rezon is presented as the second of two major adversaries God raises up against Solomon, following Hadad the Edomite ([1 Kings 11:14-22](/1_kings/11-14 "1 Kings 11:14-22 - Hadad the Edomite")). The inclusion of these external threats immediately after Solomon's apostasy highlights the swift and tangible repercussions of covenant unfaithfulness.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Rezon's background, as detailed in [1 Kings 11:23-24](/1_kings/11-23 "1 Kings 11:23-24 - Rezon's Rise to Power"), reveals him as a former officer of Hadadezer, king of Zobah, who fled when David conquered Zobah ([2 Samuel 8:3-8](/2_samuel/8-3 "2 Samuel 8:3-8 - David's Victory over Zobah")). This historical animosity, stemming from David's earlier military campaigns that had subjugated the Aramean states, provides the cultural backdrop for Rezon's deep-seated "abhorrence" for Israel. Syria, specifically Aram-Damascus, was a strategically vital region north of Israel, controlling key trade routes. Rezon's establishment of his kingdom in Damascus meant that Israel now faced a hostile power directly on its northern border, a stark contrast to the secure and expansive kingdom Solomon had inherited. This shift from regional dominance to constant threat illustrates the geopolitical consequences of spiritual decline.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Kings and the broader Deuteronomistic History. First, it exemplifies **Divine Judgment and Consequences**, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant, which includes both blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, as outlined in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). Solomon's sin directly triggers the rise of these adversaries, disrupting the peace that was a hallmark of his early reign. Second, the phrase "all the days of Solomon" emphasizes the theme of **Persistent Adversity**, highlighting that the consequences of sin are not fleeting but can endure, serving as a constant reminder of God's displeasure and the broken covenant. Finally, Rezon's rise, despite his personal animosity, underscores **God's Sovereignty**. Even the actions of foreign kings and enemies are ultimately orchestrated or permitted by God to fulfill His divine purposes, including the discipline of His people and the execution of His prophetic word, as seen in [Isaiah 10:5-7](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-7 - Assyria as God's Instrument").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **adversary (Hebrew, _śāṭān'_):** This noun, derived from the verb _śāṭan_ meaning "to oppose, accuse, be an adversary," describes Rezon's role. While often transliterated as "Satan" when referring to the demonic entity, here it denotes a human opponent or accuser. Its use emphasizes Rezon's persistent, active opposition to Israel, serving as a constant source of trouble and a direct instrument of divine judgment against Solomon. It highlights his function as an obstacle to Israel's peace and prosperity.
* **abhorred (Hebrew, _qūṭ'_):** This verb signifies a strong emotional response of loathing, detestation, or disgust. It goes beyond mere political opposition, indicating a deep-seated, visceral animosity that Rezon held towards Israel. This intense hatred likely stemmed from the historical subjugation of his homeland, Zobah, by King David, making his opposition personal and relentless. This word underscores the severity and depth of the threat Rezon posed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he was an adversary to Israel all the days of Solomon":** This clause establishes Rezon's consistent and enduring role as an enemy. The phrase "all the days of Solomon" signifies that this was not a temporary skirmish but a continuous, nagging threat that plagued the latter part of Solomon's reign, directly contrasting with the peace and security promised to a faithful king. It underscores the lasting impact of Solomon's disobedience.
* **"beside the mischief that Hadad [did]":** This parenthetical remark clarifies that Rezon was not the sole adversary but operated concurrently with Hadad the Edomite, who had also been raised up by God ([1 Kings 11:14](/1_kings/11-14 "1 Kings 11:14 - Hadad the Edomite")). The Hebrew word for "mischief" (רָעָה, _rā‘āh_) can mean evil, trouble, or calamity. This phrase indicates that the kingdom faced multiple, simultaneous threats, intensifying the sense of divine displeasure and the eroding peace.
* **"and he abhorred Israel":** This phrase reveals the deep, personal animosity Rezon harbored. It goes beyond strategic rivalry, indicating a profound hatred that fueled his actions. This "abhorrence" is rooted in the historical context of David's conquests, making Rezon a vengeful instrument of God's judgment, driven by his own bitter experiences.
* **"and reigned over Syria":** This final clause specifies Rezon's sphere of influence and power. His reign over Syria (Aram-Damascus) meant that Israel now had a hostile, well-established kingdom directly on its northern border, posing a continuous military and political threat. This geographical detail underscores the tangible, immediate consequences of Solomon's apostasy for the security of his kingdom.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Parallelism** is evident in the mention of Rezon "beside the mischief that Hadad [did]," creating a dual image of divine judgment through multiple adversaries. This reinforces the idea that God's hand was active in raising up opposition. **Foreshadowing** is also prominent, as Rezon's persistent opposition and the fracturing of Solomon's peace subtly hint at the greater division of the kingdom that would occur under Rehoboam, Solomon's son ([1 Kings 11:11-13](/1_kings/11-11 "1 Kings 11:11-13 - God's Promise to Tear the Kingdom")). The narrative uses **Contrast** by juxtaposing the earlier descriptions of Solomon's unparalleled wisdom and peace with the emergence of these persistent threats, underscoring the dramatic shift in his reign due to his unfaithfulness. Finally, the use of the term "_śāṭān_" for "adversary" carries a subtle **Symbolism**, linking Rezon's earthly opposition to the broader spiritual reality of opposition against God's people, even if not directly demonic in this context.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 11:25 serves as a stark reminder of the principle of divine retribution and the inviolability of God's covenant. While God's promises to David concerning an enduring dynasty were unconditional ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")), the blessings and peace enjoyed by individual kings were contingent upon their obedience. Solomon's apostasy directly triggered God's righteous anger, leading Him to "raise up an adversary" ([1 Kings 11:14](/1_kings/11-14 "1 Kings 11:14 - God Raises Up Adversaries")). Rezon, driven by his personal hatred for Israel, unwittingly became an instrument in God's hands, demonstrating that even the actions of wicked men and nations can be sovereignly employed by God to accomplish His purposes, whether in judgment or in the outworking of His plan. This verse powerfully illustrates that sin has tangible, often painful, consequences, disrupting not only spiritual peace but also national security and prosperity.

* [Deuteronomy 28:15](/deuteronomy/28-15 "Deuteronomy 28:15 - Consequences of Disobedience")
* [Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria as God's Rod")
* [Romans 1:18](/romans/1-18 "Romans 1:18 - God's Wrath Against Ungodliness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of Rezon's rise against Solomon offers a profound lesson for believers today. Solomon, the wisest and most blessed king, ultimately succumbed to spiritual compromise, leading to direct divine judgment and persistent adversity. This serves as a powerful warning: no amount of past blessing, wisdom, or spiritual gifting inoculates us from the consequences of unfaithfulness. Our walk with God is a continuous journey requiring vigilance, intentional obedience, and unwavering devotion. When we turn away from God's commands, even subtly, we open doors to various forms of "adversaries" in our lives—whether they manifest as internal turmoil, strained relationships, or external difficulties—disrupting the peace and blessing God desires for us. Understanding that God takes our sin seriously and will act to bring about His justice, often through unexpected means, should motivate us to cultivate a heart of consistent faithfulness and repentance, ensuring our lives remain aligned with His will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Solomon's decline, culminating in adversaries like Rezon, serve as a cautionary tale for our own spiritual lives, especially in times of prosperity or comfort?**
* **In what areas of your life might subtle compromises or unaddressed disobedience be opening the door to "adversaries" or persistent difficulties?**
* **How does understanding God's sovereignty, even over the challenges and opposition we face, shape your perspective on trials and motivate you towards greater faithfulness?**

### FAQ

**Who was Rezon, and why was he an adversary to Israel?**

Answer: Rezon was a Syrian chieftain who became king of Aram-Damascus. According to [1 Kings 11:23-24](/1_kings/11-23 "1 Kings 11:23-24 - Rezon's Background"), he was a former officer of Hadadezer, king of Zobah, who fled when King David conquered Zobah. After David's death and during Solomon's reign, Rezon gathered a band of men, seized Damascus, and established his own kingdom. His animosity towards Israel was deeply personal, stemming from David's earlier subjugation of his homeland. However, the biblical text makes it clear that his rise as an adversary was ultimately orchestrated by God as a direct consequence of King Solomon's idolatry and disobedience, serving as a divine judgment against the king and his kingdom.

**How does Rezon's rise relate to God's promises to David?**

Answer: Rezon's rise, along with Hadad the Edomite, highlights the tension between God's unconditional covenant promise to David regarding an enduring dynasty ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")) and the conditional blessings and judgments upon individual kings based on their obedience. While God promised David that his throne would be established forever, He also warned that if his descendants sinned, they would be disciplined, though the covenant itself would not be broken ([Psalm 89:30-34](/psalm/89-30 "Psalm 89:30-34 - God's Covenant with David")). Solomon's unfaithfulness directly led to God raising up adversaries like Rezon, demonstrating that while the kingdom would not be entirely torn away from David's line, its peace and unity would be severely disrupted as a consequence of sin ([1 Kings 11:11-13](/1_kings/11-11 "1 Kings 11:11-13 - God's Judgment on Solomon")). Thus, Rezon's persistent opposition was a manifestation of God's righteous discipline, fulfilling His word while still preserving the ultimate promise to David.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The account of Rezon, the persistent adversary raised against Solomon, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. Solomon, though wise and blessed, failed to maintain the peace and security of his kingdom due to his own sin, leading to the rise of external enemies. In contrast, Jesus Christ is the true and perfectly obedient Son of David, the King who perfectly fulfills God's will ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sympathetic High Priest")). He faced the ultimate adversary, Satan, not merely a human opponent, and through His death and resurrection, He decisively triumphed over all principalities and powers, disarming them and leading them captive ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities")). While Solomon's reign ended with persistent threats, Christ's reign ushers in an eternal kingdom of perfect peace and security for all who trust in Him, where the true adversary is ultimately defeated and cast out ([Revelation 20:10](/revelation/20-10 "Revelation 20:10 - Satan Cast into the Lake of Fire")). Jesus assures His followers, "In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world" ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Overcoming the World")), demonstrating that unlike Solomon, He provides ultimate victory and lasting peace over all adversaries.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Kings 5:4

But now the LORD my God hath given me rest on every side, [so that there is] neither adversary nor evil occurrent.

Psalms 106:40

Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance.

Deuteronomy 23:7

Thou shalt not abhor an Edomite; for he [is] thy brother: thou shalt not abhor an Egyptian; because thou wast a stranger in his land.

2 Chronicles 15:2

And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD [is] with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.

2 Samuel 16:21

And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father's concubines, which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that [are] with thee be strong.

Zechariah 11:8

Three shepherds also I cut off in one month; and my soul lothed them, and their soul also abhorred me.

Genesis 34:30

And Jacob said to Simeon and Levi, Ye have troubled me to make me to stink among the inhabitants of the land, among the Canaanites and the Perizzites: and I [being] few in number, they shall gather themselves together against me, and slay me; and I shall be destroyed, I and my house.