2 Chronicles 10:14

KJV

And answered them after the advice of the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add thereto: my father chastised you with whips, but I [will chastise you] with scorpions.

KJV (with Strong's)

And answered {H1696} them after the advice {H6098} of the young men {H3206}, saying {H559}, My father {H1} made your yoke {H5923} heavy {H3513}, but I will add {H3254} thereto: my father {H1} chastised {H3256} you with whips {H7752}, but I will chastise you with scorpions {H6137}.

Complete Jewish Bible

addressed them according to the advice of the young men and said, "I will make your yoke heavy, and I will add to it! My father controlled you with whips, but I will control you with scorpions!"

Berean Standard Bible

and spoke to them as the young men had advised, saying, “Whereas my father made your yoke heavy, I will add to your yoke. Whereas my father scourged you with whips, I will scourge you with scorpions.”

American Standard Version

and spake to them after the counsel of the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add thereto: my father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 10:14 records the catastrophic response of King Rehoboam to the pleas of his people for lighter burdens, a decision that directly led to the division of the united kingdom of Israel. Rejecting the compassionate counsel of the elders, Rehoboam instead embraced the arrogant advice of his young peers, declaring his intent to intensify the heavy yoke imposed by his father Solomon, promising to chastise the people with "scorpions"—a metaphor for extreme cruelty—rather than mere whips. This pivotal moment underscores the devastating consequences of prideful leadership and serves as a stark illustration of human folly intersecting with divine sovereignty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climax of a critical narrative arc beginning in [2 Chronicles 10](/2_chronicles/10 "2 Chronicles 10 - Rehoboam's Folly and the Kingdom's Division"). Following the death of King Solomon, the people of Israel, led by Jeroboam, gather at Shechem to negotiate with the new king, Rehoboam, for relief from the burdensome labor and taxation imposed during Solomon's reign. The narrative meticulously details Rehoboam's consultation process: first, he seeks advice from the experienced elders who had served his father, who wisely counsel him to serve the people and speak kindly to them, promising their perpetual loyalty in return ([2 Chronicles 10:6-7](/2_chronicles/10-6-7 "2 Chronicles 10:6-7 - Counsel of the Elders")). However, Rehoboam rejects this sagacious counsel and instead turns to the young men with whom he grew up, who advise him to assert his authority with even greater severity ([2 Chronicles 10:8-11](/2_chronics/10-8-11 "2 Chronicles 10:8-11 - Counsel of the Young Men")). Verse 14 is Rehoboam's public declaration of this disastrous choice, directly preceding the people's rebellion and the subsequent fracturing of the kingdom into Israel (north) and Judah (south) as detailed in [2 Chronicles 10:16-19](/2_chronicles/10-16-19 "2 Chronicles 10:16-19 - The Kingdom Divides").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the immediate aftermath of Solomon's opulent but demanding reign. While Solomon brought unprecedented wealth and peace, his vast building projects, including the Temple and his palace, were funded by heavy taxation and a system of forced labor (corvée) that significantly burdened the populace, particularly the northern tribes ([1 Kings 5:13-18](/1_kings/5-13-18 "1 Kings 5:13-18 - Solomon's Forced Labor")). The assembly at Shechem was a traditional site for covenant renewal and the affirmation of kingship, indicating the people's expectation of a dialogue and a new covenant with their monarch. The "yoke" metaphor was common in the ancient Near East, symbolizing servitude, labor, or oppressive rule. Kings were expected to lighten the "yoke" of their subjects, especially at the beginning of a new reign, to secure loyalty. Rehoboam's response, promising to intensify the burden with "scorpions," was a shocking and culturally provocative declaration of tyrannical intent, directly defying the established norms of benevolent kingship and demonstrating a profound lack of understanding of his people's grievances.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several critical themes within [2 Chronicles](/2_chronicles/1 "2 Chronicles - A History of Kingship and Temple Worship") and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **Rejection of Wise Counsel**, showcasing Rehoboam's fatal flaw in dismissing experienced, sagacious advice from elders in favor of arrogant, self-serving counsel from his peers. This underscores the importance of humility and valuing wisdom in leadership, a theme prevalent throughout the wisdom literature (e.g., [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel")). Secondly, it vividly illustrates **Oppressive Leadership**, as Rehoboam's declaration to make their "yoke heavy" and to "chastise you with scorpions" signifies an intent to govern with extreme severity, cruelty, and an utter disregard for the people's well-being. This stands in stark contrast to the ideal of righteous kingship (e.g., [Psalm 72:1-4](/psalm/72-1-4 "Psalm 72:1-4 - A Prayer for the King")). Thirdly, the verse demonstrates the severe **Consequences of Arrogance**, as Rehoboam's pride and short-sightedness led directly to the fracturing of the united kingdom that his grandfather David and father Solomon had built, proving that "pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall" ([Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride and Fall")). Finally, while Rehoboam made a personal choice, the Chronicler, echoing the account in [1 Kings 12:15](/1_kings/12-15 "1 Kings 12:15 - The Lord's Doing"), presents this division as part of **Divine Sovereignty** and judgment against the house of David due to Solomon's idolatry ([1 Kings 11:11-13](/1_kings/11-11-13 "1 Kings 11:11-13 - God's Judgment on Solomon")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Yoke (Hebrew, _‘ôl'_):** From H5923, this term refers to a device "imposed on the neck," either literally for animals or figuratively for burdens, labor, and servitude. In this context, it symbolizes the heavy demands, taxation, and forced labor that had been laid upon the people by Solomon's administration. Rehoboam's declaration to "add thereto" signifies his intent not merely to maintain but to significantly increase these oppressive burdens on his subjects.
* **Scorpions (Hebrew, _‘aqrâb'_):** From H6137, while literally referring to the arachnid, in this context, "scorpions" is used figuratively to describe a particularly cruel and severe type of whip, specifically a "scourge or knotted whip." This instrument of corporal punishment was likely a multi-thonged scourge, possibly embedded with metal, thorns, or sharp pieces of bone, designed to inflict maximum pain and injury. Rehoboam's boast was a clear declaration of his intention to be far more brutal and oppressive than his father, moving beyond standard "whips" to instruments of extreme torture, thereby signaling a tyrannical and merciless rule.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And answered them after the advice of the young men":** This clause immediately establishes Rehoboam's fatal choice. He deliberately disregarded the wise, compassionate counsel of the experienced elders, opting instead for the aggressive, arrogant advice of his younger, less seasoned peers. This decision reveals a character flaw rooted in pride and a desire for absolute, unchallenged authority, rather than a servant-hearted approach to leadership.
* **"saying, My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add thereto":** Here, Rehoboam acknowledges the people's grievance regarding the "heavy yoke" of Solomon's reign, but instead of offering relief, he defiantly declares his intention to intensify their burdens. This statement is not merely a refusal but an escalation, demonstrating a complete lack of empathy and a provocative disregard for the well-being and loyalty of his subjects. It is a direct challenge to their plea for lighter service.
* **"my father chastised you with whips, but I [will chastise you] with scorpions":** This is the most shocking and cruel part of Rehoboam's pronouncement. He contrasts his father's method of "chastisement" (punishment or enforcement) with his own intended, far more brutal approach. While Solomon used "whips" (standard instruments of discipline), Rehoboam boasts he will use "scorpions"—the aforementioned exceptionally cruel whips. This hyperbole underscores his tyrannical intent, signaling a reign of terror and extreme oppression, designed to crush any dissent through overwhelming force and pain.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its dramatic and tragic message. **Contrast** is central, highlighted by the stark difference between the advice of the elders and the young men, and further emphasized by Rehoboam's comparison of his father's rule ("whips") with his own intended severity ("scorpions"). This contrast underscores Rehoboam's poor judgment and the escalating nature of his promised oppression. **Metaphor** is powerfully used with the "yoke" representing the burden of kingship and the "scorpions" symbolizing extreme, painful punishment. These metaphors are not merely descriptive but evocative, immediately conveying the harsh reality of Rehoboam's intentions. Furthermore, Rehoboam's declaration itself contains an element of **Hyperbole**, as his boast to use "scorpions" is an exaggerated promise of cruelty, designed to intimidate and assert absolute power. This hyperbole, however, backfires, inciting rebellion rather than submission. Finally, this verse serves as a dramatic moment of **Foreshadowing**, as Rehoboam's words directly predict and precipitate the imminent division of the united kingdom, a tragic outcome that unfolds immediately in the subsequent verses.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This pivotal verse serves as a profound theological lesson on the nature of leadership, the consequences of pride, and the interplay of human choice with divine sovereignty. Rehoboam's rejection of wise counsel and embrace of oppressive tactics stands as a stark warning against self-serving ambition and the dangers of surrounding oneself with flatterers rather than truth-tellers. The narrative emphasizes that true authority is often secured through humility and service, not through displays of brute force or arrogance. His actions demonstrate how unchecked pride can lead to ruin, not only for the individual but for an entire nation, fracturing unity and sowing discord. Ultimately, while Rehoboam's choice was a personal act of folly, the Chronicler frames it within God's overarching plan, a judgment against Solomon's idolatry, demonstrating that even human sin and error can be woven into the tapestry of divine purpose, fulfilling prophecy and revealing God's ultimate control over history.

* [Proverbs 15:22](/proverbs/15-22 "Proverbs 15:22 - Counsel for Success")
* [Proverbs 28:16](/proverbs/28-16 "Proverbs 28:16 - Oppressive Ruler")
* [1 Kings 11:29-39](/1_kings/11-29-39 "1 Kings 11:29-39 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Rehoboam's tragic misstep in 2 Chronicles 10:14 offers timeless lessons for leaders and individuals alike. It challenges us to critically evaluate the sources of our counsel, urging us to prioritize seasoned wisdom and compassionate insight over the seductive allure of self-serving or arrogant advice. In any sphere of influence—be it family, church, workplace, or civic life—the temptation to assert power through intimidation or to dismiss legitimate grievances can be strong. However, this passage powerfully reminds us that such a path inevitably leads to division, resentment, and ultimately, decline. True, sustainable leadership is built on empathy, humility, and a genuine desire to serve the well-being of those entrusted to our care. It calls for the courage to listen, the wisdom to discern, and the humility to change course when necessary, recognizing that our decisions have far-reaching consequences, impacting not just ourselves but entire communities and generations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where in my life or leadership am I tempted to reject wise, perhaps uncomfortable, counsel in favor of advice that validates my own desires or pride?**
* **How do I respond when faced with legitimate complaints or burdens from those I lead or interact with? Do I seek to lighten their load or inadvertently add to it?**
* **What are the "scorpions" in my own leadership or personal interactions—the harsh words, unforgiving attitudes, or oppressive demands—that might be alienating others or causing division?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a spirit of humility and service that prioritizes the well-being of others over my own desire for control or affirmation?**

### FAQ

**What exactly were "scorpions" in this context, and why did Rehoboam choose that word?**

Answer: In 2 Chronicles 10:14, "scorpions" (Hebrew: _‘aqrabbim'_) does not refer to the arachnid. Instead, it is a metaphor for a particularly brutal and severe type of whip, explicitly described in the Strong's data as "figuratively, a scourge or knotted whip." This kind of whip was likely a multi-thonged scourge, possibly with metal tips, thorns, or sharp pieces of bone embedded, designed to inflict maximum pain and injury. Rehoboam chose this word to convey his intent to rule with extreme cruelty and oppression, far surpassing the severity of his father Solomon's rule. It was a boastful, intimidating declaration meant to assert his absolute power and crush any thought of rebellion, though it ultimately had the opposite effect.

**Why did Rehoboam reject the wise counsel of the elders?**

Answer: Rehoboam rejected the elders' wise counsel primarily due to pride, insecurity, and a desire to assert his authority with an iron fist. The elders advised him to serve the people and speak kindly to them, promising their perpetual loyalty ([2 Chronicles 10:7](/2_chronicles/10-7 "2 Chronicles 10:7 - Elders' Counsel")). This counsel required humility and a servant-leader mindset, which Rehoboam lacked. He preferred the advice of his young peers who flattered his ego and encouraged him to display raw power and dominance, likely because it aligned with his own desire to establish himself as a strong, unchallengeable king immediately after his father's death. His decision reflects a common human failing: choosing comfortable but destructive advice over difficult but wise counsel.

**Was the division of the kingdom truly God's will, or just a consequence of Rehoboam's bad decision?**

Answer: The Bible presents the division of the kingdom as both a consequence of Rehoboam's bad decision and a fulfillment of God's sovereign will. Prior to this event, God had already prophesied to Solomon that He would tear the kingdom from his hand due to his idolatry, though He would leave one tribe (Judah) for David's sake ([1 Kings 11:11-13](/1_kings/11-11-13 "1 Kings 11:11-13 - God's Judgment on Solomon")). The prophet Ahijah had even told Jeroboam that he would rule ten tribes ([1 Kings 11:29-39](/1_kings/11-29-39 "1 Kings 11:29-39 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam")). Therefore, while Rehoboam made a free choice driven by pride and folly, God used his decision to bring about His predetermined judgment and plan. This illustrates the biblical concept of divine sovereignty working through human actions, even sinful ones, to achieve His purposes ([1 Kings 12:15](/1_kings/12-15 "1 Kings 12:15 - The Lord's Doing")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The disastrous reign of Rehoboam, marked by his oppressive "yoke" and the threat of "scorpions," stands in stark contrast to the perfect kingship of Jesus Christ. Rehoboam's arrogant declaration of increased burdens and cruel chastisement led to the fracturing of God's people, revealing the inherent failure of human leadership apart from divine wisdom. This failure underscores humanity's desperate need for a truly benevolent and righteous King. Jesus, the ultimate Son of David, comes not to impose a heavy yoke but to invite us to take His "yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Jesus' Easy Yoke")). Unlike Rehoboam, who threatened with whips and scorpions, Christ bore the ultimate chastisement on the cross, becoming the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), suffering the full weight of divine judgment so that we might be set free from the heavy yoke of sin and the law. His rule is not one of division but of reconciliation, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility to create one new humanity in Himself ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")), uniting all who believe under His gentle and just reign. He is the King who serves, who lays down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")), offering not a heavier burden, but true rest and eternal life.

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

2 Chronicles 22:4

Wherefore he did evil in the sight of the LORD like the house of Ahab: for they were his counsellors after the death of his father to his destruction.

2 Chronicles 22:5

He walked also after their counsel, and went with Jehoram the son of Ahab king of Israel to war against Hazael king of Syria at Ramothgilead: and the Syrians smote Joram.

Proverbs 17:14

¶ The beginning of strife [is as] when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

Ecclesiastes 10:16

¶ Woe to thee, O land, when thy king [is] a child, and thy princes eat in the morning!

Proverbs 12:5

¶ The thoughts of the righteous [are] right: [but] the counsels of the wicked [are] deceit.

Daniel 6:7

All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.

Ecclesiastes 2:19

And who knoweth whether he shall be a wise [man] or a fool? yet shall he have rule over all my labour wherein I have laboured, and wherein I have shewed myself wise under the sun. This [is] also vanity.