2 Chronicles 10:3

KJV

And they sent and called him. So Jeroboam and all Israel came and spake to Rehoboam, saying,

KJV (with Strong's)

And they sent {H7971} and called {H7121} him. So Jeroboam {H3379} and all Israel {H3478} came {H935} and spake {H1696} to Rehoboam {H7346}, saying {H559},

Complete Jewish Bible

They sent and summoned him, so Yarov'am and all Isra'el came and said to Rechav'am,

Berean Standard Bible

So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and all Israel came to Rehoboam and said,

American Standard Version

And they sent and called him; and Jeroboam and all Israel came, and they spake to Rehoboam, saying,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 10:3 records the pivotal meeting at Shechem where Jeroboam, recently returned from exile, along with representatives from "all Israel" (the northern tribes), formally confronted Rehoboam, the newly crowned king and son of Solomon. This verse sets the stage for a critical dialogue that would determine the future unity or division of the Israelite monarchy, highlighting the collective voice of the people seeking relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon's reign and testing Rehoboam's leadership at the very outset of his rule.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the account of Rehoboam's journey to Shechem for his coronation, a strategic location for the northern tribes, as detailed in [2 Chronicles 10:1](/2_chronicles/10-1 "2 Chronicles 10:1 - Rehoboam Goes to Shechem"). It directly precedes the people's specific demands for a lighter yoke and Rehoboam's subsequent consultation with both the elders and his young peers, which ultimately leads to the kingdom's division. The Chronicler emphasizes the unified action of "all Israel" and the direct confrontation with the new king, framing this encounter as the decisive moment that precipitates the schism, a consequence of Solomon's unfaithfulness and Rehoboam's folly, as also recounted in [1 Kings 12](/1_kings/12 "1 Kings 12 - The Division of the Kingdom").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Following the opulent but burdensome reign of King Solomon, marked by extensive building projects and a large standing army, the people, particularly the northern tribes, endured significant taxation and forced labor (corvée). Jeroboam had previously fled to Egypt to escape Solomon's persecution, having been prophesied by the prophet Ahijah to rule over ten tribes ([1 Kings 11:29-40](/1_kings/11-29 "1 Kings 11:29-40 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam")). The assembly at Shechem was not merely a coronation ceremony but a traditional site for covenant renewal and tribal gatherings, lending a profound historical and religious weight to the people's grievances. Their collective appeal to Rehoboam was a culturally accepted practice for subjects to petition their new monarch for relief, testing the king's commitment to justice and the welfare of his people.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several critical themes. It immediately introduces the theme of **leadership and accountability**, placing Rehoboam under direct scrutiny by his subjects, who seek a just and compassionate ruler. The unified presence of "all Israel" underscores the theme of **collective voice and popular grievance**, demonstrating the power of a united people to confront authority and demand change. Furthermore, it highlights the theme of **consequences of past actions**, as the burdens imposed by Solomon's reign directly lead to this confrontation. Ultimately, this moment serves as Rehoboam's initial **test of wisdom and discernment**, foreshadowing the tragic division of the kingdom that would result from his poor judgment, a pivotal event in Israelite history as described in [1 Kings 12:19](/1_kings/12-19 "1 Kings 12:19 - The Kingdom Divides").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sent and called (Hebrew, _shalach_ and _qara'_):** The use of these two verbs in conjunction ("And they sent and called him") signifies a deliberate, formal, and urgent summons. It was not a casual invitation but an authoritative request from a unified body of people to a specific individual (Jeroboam), indicating the gravity of the situation and the people's intent to present a united front. This collective initiative underscores the organized nature of the northern tribes' discontent.
* **All Israel (Hebrew, _kol-yisrael'_):** This phrase is highly significant. In this context, "all Israel" specifically refers to the ten northern tribes, distinct from Judah and Benjamin, who largely remained loyal to Rehoboam. Their coming together represents a powerful and unified political entity, demonstrating a collective will and a shared grievance against the Solomonic monarchy's policies. It highlights the widespread nature of the discontent and the formidable challenge Rehoboam faced.
* **Spake (Hebrew, _dabar'_):** The verb "spake" (or "said" in some translations) implies a formal address, a declaration, or the presentation of a case, rather than informal conversation. It suggests that Jeroboam and the representatives of Israel came with a prepared statement or a set of demands, indicating a structured negotiation rather than a simple exchange. This formal "speaking" sets the stage for the direct articulation of their grievances in the subsequent verses.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they sent and called him.":** This opening clause immediately establishes the proactive and unified action of the northern tribes. "They" refers to the representatives of "all Israel" who, upon Rehoboam's arrival at Shechem, recognized the necessity of bringing Jeroboam, a figure of prophetic significance and a known opponent of Solomon's policies, into the negotiation. This act of summoning Jeroboam highlights their determination to present a strong, unified front.
* **"So Jeroboam and all Israel came":** This clause describes the fulfillment of the summons and the formation of the delegation. Jeroboam, having returned from his exile in Egypt, now stands as the de facto leader or chief spokesperson for the disgruntled northern tribes. His presence, alongside "all Israel" (their representatives), signifies the full weight of the people's collective will and their readiness to confront the new king directly.
* **"and spake to Rehoboam, saying,":** This final phrase sets the scene for the formal address. It indicates that the delegation, led by Jeroboam, approached Rehoboam with a specific message or demand. The "saying" anticipates the articulation of their grievances and their request for a lighter burden, making this verse the crucial preamble to the fateful dialogue that would determine the kingdom's future.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several key **literary devices**. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the very act of summoning Jeroboam and the unified confrontation by "all Israel" immediately hints at the impending conflict and potential schism. The tension and gravity of the situation are palpable, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow. The phrase "all Israel" functions as a **synecdoche** or **metonymy**, where a part (the representatives of the northern tribes) stands for the whole (the entire northern population), emphasizing their collective identity and unified purpose. There is also a subtle element of **dramatic irony** for the reader familiar with the broader biblical narrative, as we know the tragic outcome of this meeting—the division of the kingdom—even as the characters within the narrative are at the precipice of this fateful decision. The scene also presents a **juxtaposition** between the unified, aggrieved voice of the people and the untested, potentially arrogant authority of the new king, Rehoboam.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 10:3, though brief, is pregnant with theological significance, serving as a critical juncture where human choices intersect with divine sovereignty. The people's unified demand for relief from oppression reflects a deep-seated biblical principle of justice and righteous governance, echoing the covenant ideal where kings were meant to serve the people under God's law, not to exploit them. Rehoboam's initial encounter with "all Israel" represents a test of his character and his understanding of kingship—whether he would rule with wisdom and compassion, or with arrogance and tyranny. This moment foreshadows the tragic consequences of unheeded counsel and prideful leadership, ultimately leading to the division of God's chosen nation. The Chronicler, in particular, emphasizes the spiritual implications of this political schism, often linking it to the ongoing faithfulness (or unfaithfulness) of the kings and the people to the Mosaic covenant.

* [1 Kings 12:15](/1_kings/12-15 "1 Kings 12:15 - The Lord's Doing")
* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel")
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Before a Fall")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 2 Chronicles 10:3 offers profound lessons for leadership, governance, and the dynamics of human relationships. It reminds us that true authority is often best exercised through listening, empathy, and a willingness to address legitimate grievances. Rehoboam's initial interaction with "all Israel" serves as a timeless cautionary tale: ignoring the collective voice of those under one's care, especially when their concerns are valid, can lead to irreparable division and conflict. For individuals in positions of leadership—whether in families, churches, workplaces, or communities—this verse underscores the vital importance of seeking wise counsel, practicing humility, and prioritizing the well-being of those they lead over personal pride or short-sighted ambition. It also highlights the power of a unified voice seeking justice and the potential for profound consequences when such a voice is dismissed.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Rehoboam's initial encounter with "all Israel" challenge our understanding of leadership and accountability?**
* **What are the potential dangers of inherited power when not coupled with wisdom and humility?**
* **In what ways might we, as individuals or communities, be tempted to ignore legitimate concerns, leading to division or conflict?**

### FAQ
**Why was Jeroboam called back from Egypt?**

Answer: Jeroboam was called back from Egypt because he had previously fled there to escape King Solomon, who sought to kill him after the prophet Ahijah prophesied that Jeroboam would rule over ten tribes of Israel ([1 Kings 11:29-40](/1_kings/11-29 "1 Kings 11:29-40 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam")). With Solomon's death and Rehoboam's ascension, the northern tribes saw an opportunity to present their grievances against the heavy burdens of Solomon's reign. Jeroboam, already marked by prophecy and known for his opposition to Solomon's policies, was perceived as a natural leader and spokesperson for their cause. His return and presence legitimized their collective demand and provided a figurehead for their unified voice.

**What was the significance of "all Israel" coming to Rehoboam?**

Answer: The phrase "all Israel" in this context refers specifically to the ten northern tribes, distinguishing them from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, which largely remained loyal to Rehoboam. Their collective presence at Shechem was highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrated their unity and solidarity in their grievances against the Solomonic monarchy's oppressive policies. It was a formal, unified delegation representing the majority of the kingdom's population, not just a few disgruntled individuals. Secondly, it was a direct test of Rehoboam's character and his approach to kingship. By coming to him as a unified body, they were demanding that he listen to their concerns and rule justly, setting the stage for a critical decision that would determine the future of the united monarchy. Their coming signified a moment of profound political and theological consequence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The tragic division of Israel, set in motion by the confrontation in 2 Chronicles 10:3, serves as a powerful Old Testament illustration of humanity's brokenness and the need for a perfect King. Rehoboam's failure to listen and his prideful response led to schism, reflecting the inherent flaws of human leadership and the divisive nature of sin. In stark contrast, Jesus Christ is the ultimate King, whose reign brings unity and healing. Unlike Rehoboam, who sought to increase the people's burden, Christ declares, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Jesus' Invitation to the Weary")). He is the true Shepherd who gathers the scattered sheep, not dividing them, but uniting them into one flock ([John 10:16](/john/10-16 "John 10:16 - One Flock, One Shepherd")). Through His atoning work on the cross, Christ broke down the dividing wall of hostility, reconciling both Jew and Gentile to God in one body ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). The division of Israel foreshadows the spiritual separation caused by sin, which Christ, as the perfect King and Servant, came to overcome, establishing a kingdom that is not of this world but brings true peace and eternal unity to all who believe ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - My Kingdom Is Not of This World")).

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

1 Kings 12:3

That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying,