1 Kings 12:13

KJV

And the king answered the people roughly, and forsook the old men's counsel that they gave him;

KJV (with Strong's)

And the king {H4428} answered {H6030} the people {H5971} roughly {H7186}, and forsook {H5800} the old men's {H2205} counsel {H6098} that they gave {H3289} him;

Complete Jewish Bible

and the king answered the people harshly. Abandoning the advice the older men had given him,

Berean Standard Bible

And the king answered the people harshly. He rejected the advice of the elders

American Standard Version

And the king answered the people roughly, and forsook the counsel of the old men which they had given him,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 12:13 records the pivotal and disastrous decision of King Rehoboam, Solomon's son, to reject the wise and conciliatory counsel of his elder advisors. Instead, he chose to answer the people of Israel with harshness and threats, directly leading to the immediate and irreversible division of the united monarchy into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. This verse encapsulates a moment of profound folly, pride, and a failure of leadership that set the trajectory for centuries of separate monarchies and subsequent decline, marking a tragic turning point in Israel's history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the book of 1 Kings, immediately following the death of King Solomon and the transition of power to his son, Rehoboam. The narrative has already established Solomon's oppressive policies, including heavy taxation and forced labor, which had created widespread discontent among the people, as hinted at in passages like [1 Kings 11:28](/1_kings/11-28 "1 Kings 11:28 - Solomon's Forced Labor"). The people, representing all Israel, gathered at Shechem to make Rehoboam king, but first presented a unified plea for relief from their burdens. Rehoboam initially sought counsel from two distinct groups: the seasoned elders who had served his father, and the young men with whom he had grown up. The elders advised a path of humble service and compassion, promising enduring loyalty from the people if he would lighten their load, as documented in [1 Kings 12:7](/1_kings/12-7 "1 Kings 12:7 - The Old Men's Counsel to Rehoboam"). Our verse reveals Rehoboam's tragic rejection of this sagacious advice, opting instead for the aggressive, domineering counsel of his youthful peers, as detailed in [1 Kings 12:11](/1_kings/12-11 "1 Kings 12:11 - The Young Men's Counsel to Rehoboam"), setting the stage for the kingdom's irreparable schism detailed in the subsequent verses of [1 Kings 12](/1_kings/12 "1 Kings 12 - The Division of the Kingdom").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period immediately following Solomon's reign was marked by a delicate balance of power and a simmering resentment among the tribes, particularly those in the north, who felt disproportionately burdened by Solomon's extensive building projects and lavish lifestyle. Culturally, a new king was expected to demonstrate a commitment to the welfare of his people, often signaled by a gesture of clemency or a reduction in burdens at the outset of his reign. The assembly at Shechem was a traditional venue for the ratification of kingship, where the people had a voice in the covenant between king and subjects. Rehoboam's decision to disregard the wisdom of the elders, who represented continuity with established, successful governance and likely understood the deep-seated grievances, was a direct affront to these cultural expectations and a profound misreading of the political climate. His choice to assert absolute power rather than seek conciliation demonstrated a fundamental misunderstanding of the covenantal nature of Israelite kingship, where the king was meant to serve God and His people.
* **Key Themes:** The events surrounding [1 Kings 12:13](/1_kings/12-13 "1 Kings 12:13 - Rehoboam's Harsh Reply") powerfully illustrate several enduring themes. The most prominent is the **consequences of poor counsel**, where Rehoboam's rejection of seasoned wisdom in favor of rash, aggressive advice proved catastrophic, directly triggering the revolt of ten tribes and the irreversible [division of the kingdom](/1_kings/12-19 "1 Kings 12:19 - The Division of the Kingdom"). This narrative starkly contrasts **wisdom versus folly**, highlighting the prudence of the elders' compassionate approach against the foolish, domineering counsel of the young men, mirroring principles found throughout the [Book of Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "Proverbs - The Book of Wisdom"), which consistently extols the value of seeking and heeding wise counsel, as seen in [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel"). Furthermore, Rehoboam's "rough" answer underscores the dangers of **arrogance and pride** in leadership, demonstrating a spirit that prioritizes domination over service and blinds one to the potential consequences of their actions. Finally, while Rehoboam's choice was undeniably his own, the text subtly emphasizes **divine sovereignty**, indicating that this division was part of God's overarching plan to fulfill the prophecy spoken to Jeroboam through the prophet Ahijah, as revealed in [1 Kings 11:31](/1_kings/11-31 "1 Kings 11:31 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Roughly (Hebrew, _qâsheh'_):** From H7186, this adjective means "severe (in various applications); churlish, cruel, grievous, hard((-hearted), thing), heavy, impudent, obstinate, prevailed, rough(-ly), sore, sorrowful, stiff(necked), stubborn, in trouble." When applied to speech, as here, it signifies a harsh, unyielding, and unconciliatory tone. It implies a deliberate choice to be stern and oppressive rather than empathetic or understanding. Rehoboam's use of this "hard" language was not merely impolite; it was a calculated, albeit foolish, assertion of power intended to intimidate and subjugate, revealing a character devoid of the wisdom and gentleness required for effective leadership.
* **Forsook (Hebrew, _ʻâzav'_):** From H5800, this verb means "to loosen, i.e. relinquish, permit, etc.; commit self, fail, forsake, fortify, help, leave (destitute, off), refuse, surely." In this context, it indicates a complete and decisive turning away from the counsel of the old men. Rehoboam did not merely disregard their advice; he actively abandoned it, demonstrating a contemptuous dismissal of their wisdom and experience. This act of forsaking was a conscious and deliberate choice, highlighting his preference for a path of authoritarianism over one of benevolent governance, leading directly to the kingdom's fracture.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the king answered the people roughly":** This clause describes Rehoboam's direct and immediate response to the people's plea for relief from the heavy burdens imposed by his father, Solomon. The term "roughly" (Hebrew: _qâsheh'_) indicates that his reply was harsh, severe, and unyielding in tone and substance. It was not a diplomatic negotiation or a compassionate consideration of their grievances, but an aggressive assertion of his perceived absolute authority. This confrontational stance signaled a complete lack of empathy for the people's burdens and a dangerous misunderstanding of the political and social climate, setting a hostile tone for his nascent reign.
* **"and forsook the old men's counsel that they gave him":** This second clause reveals the critical underlying reason for Rehoboam's harsh reply: his deliberate and decisive rejection of the wise and conciliatory advice offered by the experienced elders who had served his father. The elders had urged him to serve the people kindly and lighten their burden, promising their perpetual loyalty in return, as recorded in [1 Kings 12:7](/1_kings/12-7 "1 Kings 12:7 - The Old Men's Counsel to Rehoboam"). By "forsaking" this counsel, Rehoboam not only ignored it but actively turned away from the path of wisdom and humility, choosing instead the path of oppression and increased burdens advocated by his younger, less experienced peers, as detailed in [1 Kings 12:11](/1_kings/12-11 "1 Kings 12:11 - The Young Men's Counsel to Rehoboam"). This rejection was the critical error that precipitated the kingdom's irreparable division.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative in [1 Kings 12:13](/1_kings/12-13 "1 Kings 12:13 - Rehoboam's Harsh Reply") is rich with literary devices that amplify its dramatic and theological impact. **Contrast** is a primary device, starkly juxtaposing the wise, conciliatory counsel of the elders with the harsh, domineering advice of the young men, and subsequently, Rehoboam's "rough" answer with the people's reasonable request. This creates a clear moral and leadership dichotomy, highlighting the two paths before the king and the consequences of his choice. **Irony** is also powerfully present: Rehoboam, in his attempt to assert his strength and control through severity and increased oppression, inadvertently triggers the very outcome he likely wished to avoid—the loss of the majority of his kingdom. His desire to solidify power ultimately shatters it. Finally, the verse employs **foreshadowing**, as Rehoboam's unyielding stance and deliberate rejection of wisdom immediately signal the impending disaster and the fulfillment of God's prophetic word regarding the division of the kingdom, which has been established earlier in the narrative, particularly in [1 Kings 11:29-39](/1_kings/11-29-39 "1 Kings 11:29-39 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Rehoboam's catastrophic decision in [1 Kings 12:13](/1_kings/12-13 "1 Kings 12:13 - Rehoboam's Harsh Reply") serves as a profound theological lesson on the nature of leadership, the consequences of pride, and the interplay between human will and divine sovereignty. His failure to heed wise counsel and his arrogant assertion of power reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of kingship as service rather than domination. The theological implication is clear: true authority, especially in a covenantal relationship with God's people, is exercised through humility, compassion, and a willingness to listen, not through oppressive force. This event underscores the biblical principle that wisdom is paramount for rulers, and its absence leads to ruin, not just for the leader but for the entire community. It also highlights how human sin and folly, while freely chosen, can paradoxically serve as instruments in the unfolding of God's larger, sovereign plan, fulfilling prophecies even through acts of disobedience, demonstrating God's ultimate control over history.

* [Proverbs 15:1](/proverbs/15-1 "Proverbs 15:1 - A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath")
* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel")
* [2 Chronicles 10:13](/2_chronicles/10-13 "2 Chronicles 10:13 - Rehoboam's Harsh Reply to Israel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of Rehoboam's folly in [1 Kings 12:13](/1_kings/12-13 "1 Kings 12:13 - Rehoboam's Harsh Reply") offers timeless lessons applicable to all spheres of life, particularly in leadership. It serves as a potent warning against the dangers of pride, the rejection of sound, experienced counsel, and the temptation to assert power through harshness rather than humility and service. Whether in family, business, church, or government, leaders are called to cultivate a listening ear, valuing the wisdom of those who have walked before them and understanding the needs of those they lead. A truly effective leader seeks to lighten burdens, not to increase them, and understands that lasting loyalty is built on trust and compassion, not fear. This verse challenges us to examine our own tendencies: Do we seek wise counsel, or do we surround ourselves with those who merely affirm our preconceived notions? Are we quick to speak roughly, or do we cultivate a gentle and understanding spirit? Humility and a servant's heart are not weaknesses but foundational strengths for any enduring influence, enabling us to build up rather than tear down, and to lead with integrity and grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you prone to rejecting wise counsel in favor of your own desires or the advice of those who flatter you?**
* **How does Rehoboam's "rough" answer compare to the way you communicate when challenged or confronted, especially when your authority or preferences are questioned?**
* **What are the long-term consequences of pride and a lack of humility in leadership, whether in a family, workplace, or community setting, and how can these be mitigated?**
* **How can you actively cultivate a spirit of humility and a willingness to listen to diverse perspectives, especially those that challenge your own, to foster unity and wise decision-making?**

### FAQ
**Why did Rehoboam reject the old men's counsel?**

Answer: Rehoboam rejected the old men's counsel primarily due to pride and a desire to assert absolute, unchallengeable authority. The old men advised a path of humble service, suggesting that if Rehoboam would "serve" the people and speak kindly to them, they would "serve" him forever, as recorded in [1 Kings 12:7](/1_kings/12-7 "1 Kings 12:7 - The Old Men's Counsel to Rehoboam"). This advice, though wise and pragmatic, likely seemed weak or beneath a king to Rehoboam and his young advisors. They preferred a more aggressive approach, advocating for an increase in the people's burdens to demonstrate the king's power, as detailed in [1 Kings 12:11](/1_kings/12-11 "1 Kings 12:11 - The Young Men's Counsel to Rehoboam"). Rehoboam chose the counsel that appealed to his ego and desire for immediate, forceful control, rather than the long-term wisdom of compassionate leadership, ultimately leading to his downfall.

**What were the immediate consequences of Rehoboam's decision?**

Answer: The immediate and devastating consequence of Rehoboam's decision was the division of the united kingdom of Israel. Upon hearing his harsh reply, ten of the twelve tribes immediately revolted, proclaiming, "What portion have we in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse! To your tents, O Israel! Now see to your own house, O David!", as documented in [1 Kings 12:16](/1_kings/12-16 "1 Kings 12:16 - Israel's Revolt"). They made Jeroboam, a former servant of Solomon, their king. Only the tribe of Judah (and Benjamin, which was closely associated with Judah) remained loyal to Rehoboam, forming the southern kingdom of Judah, as confirmed in [1 Kings 12:20](/1_kings/12-20 "1 Kings 12:20 - Division of the Kingdom"). This single act of folly led to centuries of political and spiritual separation between the two kingdoms, profoundly altering the course of Israelite history.

**How does this event relate to God's sovereignty?**

Answer: While Rehoboam's decision was a clear act of human free will and folly, the biblical narrative explicitly states that it was also part of God's sovereign plan. [1 Kings 12:15](/1_kings/12-15 "1 Kings 12:15 - The Lord's Doing") declares, "So the king did not listen to the people, for it was a turn of affairs brought about by the Lord that he might fulfill his word, which the Lord spoke by Ahijah the Shilonite to Jeroboam the son of Nebat." This refers to the prophecy in [1 Kings 11:29-39](/1_kings/11-29-39 "1 Kings 11:29-39 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam"), where God promised Jeroboam ten tribes due to Solomon's idolatry and departure from God's commands. Thus, God used Rehoboam's sinful pride and poor judgment to accomplish His divine purpose, demonstrating that even human disobedience can, in God's hands, serve to fulfill His overarching plan and righteous judgment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Rehoboam's disastrous kingship, marked by pride, harshness, and the rejection of wise counsel, stands in stark contrast to the perfect, servant-hearted reign of Jesus Christ. Rehoboam sought to increase his burden on the people, leading to division and rebellion; Christ, by contrast, invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him, promising rest and a light yoke, as beautifully articulated in [Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary"). While Rehoboam's "rough" answer shattered the unity of Israel, Jesus, the true King and Good Shepherd, came to gather His scattered sheep and unite them into one flock under one Shepherd, as prophesied and fulfilled in [John 10:16](/john/10-16 "John 10:16 - One Flock, One Shepherd"). His leadership is not characterized by domination but by self-sacrificial service, even to the point of laying down His life for His people, a truth powerfully declared in [Matthew 20:28](/matthew/20-28 "Matthew 20:28 - The Son of Man Came to Serve"). Rehoboam's folly led to a divided kingdom and eventual exile; Christ's wisdom and sacrifice established an eternal kingdom, bringing reconciliation and unity to all who believe, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility between Jew and Gentile, as profoundly explained in [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace"). He is the true King who always heeds the perfect counsel of His Father and perfectly embodies the wisdom that Rehoboam so tragically lacked, establishing a reign of justice, peace, and everlasting unity for all who trust in Him.

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

Proverbs 13:20

¶ He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

Proverbs 10:32

The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked [speaketh] frowardness.

Ecclesiastes 10:12

¶ The words of a wise man's mouth [are] gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.

James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

Proverbs 18:23

¶ The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.

Proverbs 10:11

¶ The mouth of a righteous [man is] a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.

1 Kings 20:6

Yet I will send my servants unto thee to morrow about this time, and they shall search thine house, and the houses of thy servants; and it shall be, [that] whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes, they shall put [it] in their hand, and take [it] away.