1 Kings 15:7

Now the rest of the acts of Abijam, and all that he did, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? And there was war between Abijam and Jeroboam.

Now the rest {H3499} of the acts {H1697} of Abijam {H38}, and all that he did {H6213}, are they not written {H3789} in the book {H5612} of the chronicles {H1697}{H3117} of the kings {H4428} of Judah {H3063}? And there was war {H4421} between Abijam {H38} and Jeroboam {H3379}.

Other activities of Aviyam and all his accomplishments are recorded in the Annals of the Kings of Y'hudah. But there was war between Aviyam and Yarov'am.

As for the rest of the acts of Abijam, along with all his accomplishments, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah? And there was war between Abijam and Jeroboam.

And the rest of the acts of Abijam, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? And there was war between Abijam and Jeroboam.

Commentary

1 Kings 15:7 serves as a concise summary statement regarding the reign of King Abijam (also known as Abijah), the son and successor of Rehoboam over the kingdom of Judah. This verse, characteristic of the historical books of Kings, points to external records for a more exhaustive account of the monarch's activities while highlighting a significant event of his rule.

Context

This verse is situated within the historical narrative of the divided kingdom. Following the death of Solomon, the kingdom of Israel split into two: the Northern Kingdom of Israel, ruled by Jeroboam, and the Southern Kingdom of Judah, ruled by Rehoboam and subsequently by Abijam. Abijam's reign (c. 913-911 BC) was brief, lasting only three years. The book of Kings often employs such concluding remarks to transition between kings, indicating that its purpose is not to provide an exhaustive historical chronicle but rather a theological history, focusing on the kings' obedience or disobedience to God's covenant.

Key Themes

  • Historical Documentation: The phrase "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah" refers to official state annals, which were distinct from the biblical books of Chronicles but served as a primary source for the biblical authors. This emphasizes the historical grounding of the biblical narrative and the meticulous record-keeping of ancient societies.
  • Ongoing Conflict: The declaration "And there was war between Abijam and Jeroboam" underscores the persistent hostility and tension that characterized the relationship between the two divided kingdoms. This conflict was a direct consequence of the division of the kingdom, marking a period of internal strife among God's people.
  • Biblical Selectivity: The verse implicitly highlights the Bible's selective nature. While extensive records existed, the biblical account focuses on key events and spiritual lessons relevant to God's relationship with His people, rather than providing every detail of a king's reign.

Historical Significance

The war mentioned between Abijam and Jeroboam was a significant military confrontation. While 1 Kings 15:7 offers only a brief mention, 2 Chronicles 13 provides a much more detailed account, describing a massive battle where Abijam, relying on the Lord God of his fathers, secured a decisive victory over the numerically superior forces of Jeroboam. This victory temporarily weakened the Northern Kingdom and solidified Judah's position, albeit the underlying animosity remained.

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse offers several insights:

  • Value of History: It reminds us of the importance of historical records, both secular and sacred, in understanding God's work in the world and the consequences of human choices.
  • Consequences of Division: The ongoing warfare between Judah and Israel serves as a stark reminder of the destructive nature of division, even among those who share a common heritage. It underscores the biblical call for unity where possible.
  • God's Sovereignty in Conflict: Even in periods of political strife and warfare, the biblical narrative consistently points to God's ultimate control and His hand in the rise and fall of kings and nations.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 13:2

    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.

  • 2 Chronicles 13:22

    And the rest of the acts of Abijah, and his ways, and his sayings, [are] written in the story of the prophet Iddo.

  • 1 Kings 14:29

    Now the rest of the acts of Rehoboam, and all that he did, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?
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