1 Kings 15:2

Three years reigned he in Jerusalem. And his mother's name [was] Maachah, the daughter of Abishalom.

Three {H7969} years {H8141} reigned {H4427} he in Jerusalem {H3389}. And his mother's {H517} name {H8034} was Maachah {H4601}, the daughter {H1323} of Abishalom {H53}.

He ruled three years in Yerushalayim; his mother's name was Ma'akhah the daughter of Avishalom.

and he reigned in Jerusalem three years. His mother’s name was Maacah daughter of Abishalom.

Three years reigned he in Jerusalem: and his mother’s name was Maacah the daughter of Abishalom.

Commentary

Context

This verse introduces key details about Abijam (also known as Abijah in 2 Chronicles 13:1), King of Judah, who succeeded his father Rehoboam, the first king of the divided Southern Kingdom. Abijam's reign was brief, lasting only three years, a stark contrast to the long reigns of some of his predecessors and successors. The mention of his mother, Maachah, and her father, Abishalom, is significant. In ancient Near Eastern monarchies, the "queen mother" (Hebrew: gevirah) often held considerable influence and status.

The identity of "Abishalom" is widely understood to be Absalom, the rebellious son of King David (2 Samuel 15:1). While 2 Samuel 14:27 mentions Absalom having a daughter named Tamar, Maachah is often considered Absalom's granddaughter, as "daughter" in Hebrew can sometimes refer to a descendant. This lineage connects Abijam directly to a turbulent branch of the Davidic line.

Key Themes

  • Royal Succession and Genealogy: The verse emphasizes the meticulous record-keeping of royal lineage in the Davidic dynasty, even for kings with short or unrighteous reigns. This highlights the importance of the covenant God made with David concerning his perpetual throne (2 Samuel 7:16).
  • Brevity of Earthly Power: Abijam's short three-year reign serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of worldly authority and life itself.
  • Influence of Royal Women: Maachah's prominent mention underscores the significant role of the queen mother in the kingdom of Judah. Her influence is further highlighted later in the narrative, as she was removed from her position by her grandson Asa due to her idolatry (1 Kings 15:13).

Linguistic Insights

The name "Abishalom" (אֲבִישָׁלֹום, 'Avishalom) is a variant spelling of "Absalom" (אַבְשָׁלוֹם, 'Avshalom), meaning "father of peace." This connection firmly identifies Maachah as a direct descendant of David's rebellious son, Absalom. The slight variation in spelling is common in Hebrew transliteration and does not indicate a different person in this context.

Practical Application

While specific details about Abijam's reign are limited in this verse, the information provided offers several insights:

  • God's Sovereignty in Succession: Even in tumultuous times and with kings who did not fully follow Him, God maintained the lineage of David, fulfilling His promises. This reminds us that God's plans prevail despite human failings.
  • The Impact of Family Background: The mention of Maachah's lineage, linking back to Absalom, subtly hints at the potential for both positive and negative family influences to ripple through generations. While individuals are responsible for their own choices, family heritage can shape initial circumstances.
  • Temporal Nature of Earthly Rule: Abijam's brief reign underscores the temporary nature of all human power and achievements, contrasting with the eternal kingdom of God.
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Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 13:2 (4 votes)

    He reigned three years in Jerusalem. His mother's name also [was] Michaiah the daughter of Uriel of Gibeah. And there was war between Abijah and Jeroboam.

  • 1 Kings 15:13 (2 votes)

    And also Maachah his mother, even her he removed from [being] queen, because she had made an idol in a grove; and Asa destroyed her idol, and burnt [it] by the brook Kidron.

  • 2 Chronicles 11:20 (2 votes)

    And after her he took Maachah the daughter of Absalom; which bare him Abijah, and Attai, and Ziza, and Shelomith.

  • 2 Chronicles 11:22 (2 votes)

    And Rehoboam made Abijah the son of Maachah the chief, [to be] ruler among his brethren: for [he thought] to make him king.