1 Kings 12:8

KJV

But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, [and] which stood before him:

KJV (with Strong's)

But he forsook {H5800} the counsel {H6098} of the old men {H2205}, which they had given {H3289} him, and consulted {H3289} with the young men {H3206} that were grown up {H1431} with him, and which stood {H5975} before {H6440} him:

Complete Jewish Bible

But he didn't take the advice the older men gave him; instead he consulted the young men he had grown up with, who were now his attendants.

Berean Standard Bible

But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders; instead, he consulted the young men who had grown up with him and served him.

American Standard Version

But he forsook the counsel of the old men which they had given him, and took counsel with the young men that were grown up with him, that stood before him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Rehoboam, heir to King Solomon's throne, faced a critical decision regarding the burden placed on the Israelite tribes. This verse details his pivotal and ultimately disastrous choice to reject the wise, conciliatory advice of the seasoned elders who had served his father, opting instead to consult and follow the aggressive, unyielding counsel of his youthful peers. This profound misjudgment directly precipitated the schism of the united monarchy, leading to the division of Israel into two separate kingdoms.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded in the narrative of the kingdom's division, immediately following the people's plea for relief from Solomon's heavy yoke in [1 Kings 12:4](/1_kings/12-4 "1 Kings 12:4 - The People's Plea to Rehoboam"). Rehoboam had initially sought counsel from two distinct groups: first, the "old men" (v. 6), who advised a humble and gracious response promising lasting loyalty, and then the "young men" (v. 8), his contemporaries. Verse 8 explicitly states Rehoboam's rejection of the former and embrace of the latter, setting the stage for the harsh reply he delivers in [1 Kings 12:14](/1_kings/12-14 "1 Kings 12:14 - Rehoboam's Harsh Reply"), which directly triggers the northern tribes' rebellion and the kingdom's irreversible split in [1 Kings 12:16](/1_kings/12-16 "1 Kings 12:16 - The Division of the Kingdom"). The narrative meticulously builds to this moment, highlighting the king's agency in the unfolding tragedy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Following the golden age of Solomon's reign, characterized by immense building projects and administrative expansion, there was significant discontent among the populace, particularly the northern tribes, regarding the heavy taxation and forced labor (corvée) imposed to fund these endeavors. Rehoboam's succession was a moment of reckoning, a chance to address these grievances and solidify his rule. Culturally, respect for elders and their accumulated wisdom (`zeqenim`) was a cornerstone of Israelite society, often seen as a conduit for divine wisdom. Kings were expected to govern justly and wisely, often relying on a council of advisors. The "young men" (`yeladim`) likely represented a new, perhaps more autocratic, approach to kingship, seeking to assert absolute power without compromise, a stark contrast to the traditional, more communal, and covenantal understanding of leadership.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several critical themes. First, the **consequences of rejecting wisdom** are starkly presented, contrasting the prudent, long-term thinking of the elders with the short-sighted, prideful advice of the youth. Second, it highlights the theme of **divine sovereignty in human affairs**, as the text later reveals that this division was "a turn of affairs brought about by the Lord" ([1 Kings 12:15](/1_kings/12-15 "1 Kings 12:15 - The Lord's Hand in the Division")) to fulfill the prophecy against Solomon's house ([1 Kings 11:29-39](/1_kings/11-29 "1 Kings 11:29-39 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam")). Third, it explores the nature of **true leadership**, emphasizing humility, service, and discernment over arrogance and a desire for absolute control. Rehoboam's failure to embody these qualities serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating how poor leadership decisions can have devastating and lasting national consequences, leading to the fragmentation of a once-unified people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Forsook (Hebrew, _'azav'_):** This verb signifies abandoning, leaving, or deserting. In this context, it implies a deliberate and decisive rejection of the counsel offered by the old men. It's not merely a passive disregard but an active turning away from a path that was clearly presented as beneficial. This act of "forsaking" underscores Rehoboam's personal responsibility in his calamitous decision.
* **Counsel (Hebrew, _'etsah'_):** Referring to advice, a plan, or a deliberate purpose. The "counsel of the old men" was not just a suggestion but a well-considered strategy for governing, rooted in experience and an understanding of the people's disposition. Rehoboam's rejection of this `etsah` was a rejection of sound, proven wisdom.
* **Young men (Hebrew, _yeladim'_):** Literally "children" or "youths," this term often carries connotations of immaturity, inexperience, or a lack of seasoned judgment, especially in contrast to `zeqenim` (elders). The fact that they "grew up with him" suggests a bond of familiarity but also a shared lack of exposure to the complexities of statecraft and the weight of national leadership. Their advice, as seen in subsequent verses, reflected this youthful impulsiveness rather than mature wisdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him":** This clause highlights Rehoboam's active rejection of the wise and conciliatory advice. The "old men" (elders) represented accumulated experience and prudence, having served his father Solomon and understood the dynamics of power and the people's grievances. Their counsel, detailed in [1 Kings 12:7](/1_kings/12-7 "1 Kings 12:7 - The Elders' Wise Counsel"), was to serve the people and speak kindly, promising their perpetual loyalty. Rehoboam's choice to "forsake" this counsel was a conscious and deliberate turning away from a path of humility and long-term stability.
* **"and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him":** Instead of heeding seasoned wisdom, Rehoboam turned to his peers. These "young men" were his contemporaries, likely sharing his worldview, perhaps his arrogance, and certainly his lack of experience in governing a vast and diverse kingdom. Their advice, as revealed later, was to assert absolute power and increase the burdens on the people, reflecting a desire for immediate strength and control rather than sustainable peace.
* **"[and] which stood before him":** This phrase indicates that these young men were part of Rehoboam's inner circle, perhaps his personal attendants or closest confidantes. Their proximity to the king suggests a relationship of trust and familiarity, which might have made their counsel more appealing to Rehoboam than the potentially challenging advice of the older, more independent elders. This close relationship, however, did not equate to superior wisdom or a better understanding of the national interest.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to underscore Rehoboam's fateful decision. **Contrast** is central, pitting the "old men" against the "young men," representing wisdom and experience versus impulsiveness and inexperience. This **juxtaposition** highlights the stark choice Rehoboam faced and the inherent folly of his selection. The verb "forsook" (Hebrew: `'azav'`) functions as a **key verb**, emphasizing the deliberate nature of Rehoboam's rejection, not merely a passive oversight. The narrative structure itself uses **foreshadowing**, as this decision immediately precedes the kingdom's division, implying the disastrous consequences of rejecting sound counsel. Furthermore, the description of the "young men" as those "grown up with him" and who "stood before him" uses **characterization** to subtly suggest a circle of influence that, while familiar, lacked the necessary gravitas and independent judgment for such a critical moment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Rehoboam's rejection of wise counsel and embrace of self-serving advice serves as a profound theological lesson on the nature of wisdom, humility, and leadership. It illustrates the biblical principle that "pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" ([Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride and Humility")). His failure to listen to those with experience, choosing instead to surround himself with those who affirmed his desire for absolute power, led directly to the fracturing of God's chosen people. This narrative underscores the importance of discerning counsel, recognizing that not all advice, even from trusted associates, is beneficial or aligned with God's will. True wisdom often requires humility to receive it, even when it challenges one's own inclinations.

* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - The Importance of Counsel")
* [Proverbs 12:15](/proverbs/12-15 "Proverbs 12:15 - The Way of a Fool")
* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking for Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Rehoboam's story is a timeless cautionary tale for leaders and individuals alike, highlighting the profound impact of the counsel we choose to embrace. In a world saturated with information and opinions, the discernment of wise counsel is more critical than ever. We are constantly faced with decisions, both personal and professional, that require us to weigh different perspectives. This account challenges us to actively seek out and value the wisdom of those who possess experience, integrity, and a track record of sound judgment, rather than defaulting to voices that merely echo our own biases or flatter our desires. It calls for a humility that acknowledges our own limitations and a willingness to be corrected or guided by those who see more clearly or have walked a longer path. Ultimately, the narrative compels us to prioritize long-term flourishing and the well-being of others over short-term gratification or the assertion of power, reminding us that true strength often lies in humble service and wise collaboration.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Whose counsel do I primarily seek when facing significant decisions in my life?**
* **Am I open to receiving advice that challenges my preconceived notions or desires, or do I tend to gravitate towards those who affirm my existing inclinations?**
* **How does humility play a role in my ability to discern and accept wise counsel, even when it's difficult to hear?**
* **What are the potential "young men" influences in my life—voices that, while familiar or appealing, might lead me away from true wisdom and towards detrimental outcomes?**

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

Answer: Rehoboam rejected the counsel of the old men primarily due to a combination of pride, a desire for absolute power, and a lack of humility. The old men advised a conciliatory approach, suggesting that he serve the people and speak kindly to them, which would secure their loyalty indefinitely ([1 Kings 12:7](/1_kings/12-7 "1 Kings 12:7 - The Elders' Wise Counsel")). This counsel likely felt like a concession or a sign of weakness to Rehoboam, who, as the son of the mighty Solomon, perhaps envisioned a reign of even greater authority. The "young men" with whom he grew up, on the other hand, advised him to assert his dominance and increase the burdens on the people, promising to make his "yoke heavier" than his father's ([1 Kings 12:10-11](/1_kings/12-10 "1 Kings 12:10-11 - The Young Men's Harsh Counsel")). This aggressive advice appealed to his desire to appear strong and unyielding, ultimately leading to his catastrophic decision and the division of the kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Rehoboam's story is a tragic account of human folly and the consequences of rejecting wisdom, it powerfully anticipates the perfect wisdom and humble leadership embodied in Jesus Christ. Unlike Rehoboam, who sought to assert his own power and increase burdens, Jesus came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Rehoboam's pride led to division; Christ's humility and obedience to the Father's will brought about reconciliation and unity, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")). Where Rehoboam forsook the counsel of elders, Jesus perfectly embodied divine wisdom, being "the wisdom of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")) and the one in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom All Treasures of Wisdom Are Hidden")). His leadership is characterized by a "light yoke and easy burden" ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")), inviting weary souls to find rest, a stark contrast to the oppressive rule Rehoboam sought to impose. Thus, Rehoboam's failure serves as a dark backdrop, illuminating the unparalleled grace, wisdom, and redemptive power of Christ's reign, which truly unites and liberates.

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 19:20

¶ Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.

2 Chronicles 10:8

But he forsook the counsel which the old men gave him, and took counsel with the young men that were brought up with him, that stood before him.

Proverbs 1:30

They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.

Proverbs 25:12

[As] an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, [so is] a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

2 Chronicles 25:15

Wherefore the anger of the LORD was kindled against Amaziah, and he sent unto him a prophet, which said unto him, Why hast thou sought after the gods of the people, which could not deliver their own people out of thine hand?

2 Chronicles 25:16

And it came to pass, as he talked with him, that [the king] said unto him, Art thou made of the king's counsel? forbear; why shouldest thou be smitten? Then the prophet forbare, and said, I know that God hath determined to destroy thee, because thou hast done this, and hast not hearkened unto my counsel.

Proverbs 1:25

But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: