What number verse is 2 Chronicles 10:8 in the Bible?

2 Chronicles 10:8 is the 11,404th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — 2 Chronicles 10:8 sits at position 11,404.

Translation

King James Version

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.

Ask

KJV (with Strong's)

But he forsook ^H5800 the counsel ^H6098 which the old men ^H2205 gave ^H3289 him, and took counsel ^H3289 with the young men ^H3206 that were brought up ^H1431 with him, that stood ^H5975 before ^H6440 him.

Ask

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.

Ask

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.

Ask

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.

Ask

World English Bible Messianic

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

Ask

Geneva Bible (1599)

But hee left the counsel of the ancient men that they had giuen him, and tooke counsell of the yong men that were brought vp with him, and waited on him.

Ask

Young's Literal Translation

And he forsaketh the counsel of the aged men that they counselled him, and consulteth with the lads who have grown up with him, those standing before him,

Ask

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Second Chronicles 10:8 marks the pivotal moment of King Rehoboam's reign, where he deliberately rejects the seasoned and compassionate counsel of his father's experienced advisors in favor of the harsh, power-centric advice offered by his youthful peers. This fateful decision, driven by a desire to assert absolute authority rather than serve the people, directly precipitates the tragic division of the united kingdom of Israel, serving as a profound cautionary tale about the perils of pride and the rejection of wisdom.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the narrative of the divided monarchy. Following the death of King Solomon, his son Rehoboam ascends to the throne. The people, burdened by Solomon's heavy taxation and forced labor, gather at Shechem to appeal to Rehoboam for relief. Prior to this verse, Rehoboam had consulted two groups: first, the "old men" who had served his father, whose advice was to serve the people kindly and speak good words to them, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 10:7. This verse, however, shows Rehoboam's decisive turn away from this wise counsel, directly leading to his infamous response to the people in the subsequent verses and the ultimate fragmentation of the kingdom into Israel and Judah, detailed in 2 Chronicles 10:16.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, "elders" held significant positions of authority and respect, embodying accumulated wisdom, experience, and the community's collective memory. Their counsel was typically sought and highly valued in matters of governance and justice. Shechem itself was a historically significant location for covenant renewals and assemblies, adding weight to the people's gathering there. Rehoboam's choice to listen to "young men" who were "brought up with him" suggests a preference for familiar, perhaps less challenging, voices from his immediate court circle, over the established, respected wisdom of the elders. This decision reflects a broader cultural tension between traditional wisdom and youthful ambition, with profound consequences for the political landscape of the time.
Key Themes: Rehoboam's actions in this verse underscore several enduring themes. Primarily, it highlights the peril of rejecting wise counsel, demonstrating how dismissing experienced, sound advice in favor of less mature or self-serving perspectives can lead to disastrous outcomes, as seen in Proverbs 11:14. Secondly, it starkly contrasts youthful arrogance with experienced wisdom, portraying Rehoboam's preference for asserting power rather than exercising humble, compassionate leadership. Finally, it serves as a powerful cautionary tale about leadership and discernment, emphasizing that effective governance requires not just authority, but also the humility to listen, the wisdom to discern between flattery and truth, and the foresight to understand the long-term implications of one's decisions for the well-being of the people.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

forsook (Hebrew, ʻâzab', H5800): This verb implies a deliberate and active abandonment, not merely an oversight or a passive disregard. Rehoboam consciously turned away from the counsel, indicating a willful rejection of a path that was clearly presented to him. It suggests a decisive break from the wisdom of the past.
old men (Hebrew, zâqên', H2205): This term refers to elders, individuals who, by virtue of their age and experience, were considered wise, prudent, and authoritative within the community. They represented continuity, tradition, and a deep understanding of the people and the principles of governance, having served King Solomon himself.
young men (Hebrew, yeled', H3206): While literally meaning "boys" or "youths," in this context, it refers to Rehoboam's peers, those who had grown up with him in the royal court. The implication is a lack of seasoned judgment, practical experience in governance, and perhaps a tendency towards impulsive or self-serving advice, contrasted sharply with the zâqên.

Verse Breakdown

"But he forsook the counsel which the old men gave him": This clause establishes Rehoboam's active and deliberate rejection of the wise and compassionate advice offered by his father's seasoned advisors. It highlights his unwillingness to embrace a leadership style rooted in service and empathy, which would have preserved the kingdom's unity.
"and took counsel with the young men that were brought up with him": This phrase reveals Rehoboam's preference for the advice of his peers, individuals who shared his background and likely his youthful perspective on power and authority. Their counsel, as revealed in subsequent verses, was harsh and focused on increasing royal dominance, rather than alleviating the people's burdens.
"that stood before him": This detail indicates that these young men were part of Rehoboam's immediate entourage or court, perhaps eager to solidify their influence alongside the new king. Their proximity and access made their voices more readily heard, despite their lack of governmental experience.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device at play in 2 Chronicles 10:8 is Contrast, specifically between the "old men" and the "young men," and the differing counsel they offer. This stark opposition highlights the two divergent paths available to Rehoboam: one of wisdom, humility, and service, and the other of arrogance, power, and oppression. The verse also employs Foreshadowing, as Rehoboam's choice here clearly signals the impending disaster—the division of the kingdom—that will unfold due to his poor judgment. The narrative functions as a powerful Cautionary Tale, illustrating the severe consequences of rejecting sound, experienced advice and succumbing to the allure of pride and unchecked authority. There is also an element of Irony, as Rehoboam's attempt to strengthen his rule through harshness ultimately leads to its fragmentation.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Rehoboam's tragic decision in 2 Chronicles 10:8 resonates deeply with biblical themes of wisdom, discernment, and the nature of true leadership. The narrative underscores that genuine authority, particularly in a divinely established kingdom, is not about domination but about humble service and seeking the welfare of the people. Rehoboam's failure to heed the wisdom of the elders, preferring the flattery of his peers, mirrors a recurring biblical motif where pride precedes a fall, and the rejection of godly counsel leads to ruin. This serves as a powerful reminder that wisdom is a gift from God, often mediated through experienced individuals, and that leaders are accountable for the choices they make regarding the counsel they receive.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The account of Rehoboam's fateful choice offers timeless lessons for every individual, especially those in positions of leadership or influence. It compels us to critically evaluate the sources of our counsel, urging us to prioritize wisdom, experience, and integrity over flattery, self-interest, or mere familiarity. In a world that often values youthful innovation above seasoned experience, Rehoboam's story reminds us that true progress and stability often depend on drawing from the wellspring of accumulated wisdom. We are challenged to cultivate humility, recognizing our own limitations and the immense value of diverse perspectives. Our decisions, whether personal, professional, or spiritual, carry consequences that extend far beyond ourselves, impacting communities, families, and even generations. Therefore, seeking God's wisdom and discerning counsel becomes not just a good practice, but a vital necessity for flourishing.

Questions for Reflection

In what areas of my life am I prone to reject wise counsel, especially when it challenges my desires or preconceived notions?
How do I discern between genuine, beneficial advice and flattery, self-serving perspectives, or peer pressure?
What steps can I take to cultivate humility and openness to wisdom from unexpected sources, even when it's difficult to hear?

FAQ

Who were the "old men" and "young men" mentioned in this verse?

Answer: The "old men" were likely experienced elders and advisors who had served King Solomon throughout his reign. They represented the traditional wisdom, political acumen, and a deep understanding of the people's burdens and the kingdom's stability. Their counsel was to serve the people kindly to secure their perpetual loyalty. The "young men" were Rehoboam's peers, those who had grown up with him in the royal court. They lacked the practical experience of governance and the long-term perspective of the elders. Their advice, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 10:9-11, was harsh, advocating for an increase in royal power and a more oppressive rule, reflecting a desire to assert authority rather than build consensus.

What was the immediate consequence of Rehoboam's decision?

Answer: Rehoboam's decision to reject the elders' compassionate counsel and instead follow the harsh advice of his youthful peers had immediate and devastating consequences. When he delivered his arrogant and unyielding response to the people's plea for lighter burdens, ten of the twelve tribes of Israel immediately rebelled against his rule. This led to the permanent division of the united kingdom of Israel, which had flourished under David and Solomon, into two separate entities: the northern kingdom of Israel (under Jeroboam) and the southern kingdom of Judah (under Rehoboam). This dramatic fragmentation is chronicled in 2 Chronicles 10:16-19 and marked a profound turning point in Israel's history.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Rehoboam's tragic failure to heed wise counsel and his embrace of self-serving power stand in stark contrast to the perfect leadership of Jesus Christ. While Rehoboam sought to assert his dominion through harshness, Christ came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many, as recorded in Mark 10:45. Rehoboam rejected wisdom, leading to the division of his earthly kingdom; Christ, however, is the very wisdom of God incarnate, as articulated in 1 Corinthians 1:24, whose counsel always leads to life, reconciliation, and peace. Unlike Rehoboam's decision which fragmented a nation, Jesus's ultimate sacrifice on the cross broke down the dividing wall of hostility, uniting Jew and Gentile into one new humanity under His headship, a truth proclaimed in Ephesians 2:14. His kingdom is not of this world, established by earthly power or human counsel, but is an eternal, undivided spiritual kingdom founded on truth and love, as Jesus Himself stated in John 18:36. He is the true King, whose reign brings ultimate unity and whose wisdom is unfailing, guiding His people into all truth, for He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6).

Copy as

Commentary on 2 Chronicles 10 verses 1–11

1 ¶ And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for to Shechem were all Israel come to make him king.

2 And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was in Egypt, whither he had fled from the presence of Solomon the king, heard it, that Jeroboam returned out of Egypt.

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

4 Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore ease thou somewhat the grievous servitude of thy father, and his heavy yoke that he put upon us, and we will serve thee.

5 And he said unto them, Come again unto me after three days. And the people departed.

6 And king Rehoboam took counsel with the old men that had stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, saying, What counsel give ye me to return answer to this people?

7 And they spake unto him, saying, If thou be kind to this people, and please them, and speak good words to them, they will be thy servants for ever.

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.

9 And he said unto them, What advice give ye that we may return answer to this people, which have spoken to me, saying, Ease somewhat the yoke that thy father did put upon us?

10 And the young men that were brought up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou answer the people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou it somewhat lighter for us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My little finger shall be thicker than my father's loins.

11 For whereas my father put a heavy yoke upon you, I will put more to your yoke: my father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.

We may observe here, 1. The wisest and best cannot give every body content. Solomon enriched and advanced his kingdom, did all (one would think) that could be done to make then happy and easy; and yet either he was indiscreet in burdening them with the imposition of taxes and services, or at least there was some colour of reason to think him so. No man is perfectly wise. It is probable that it was when Solomon had declined from God and his duty that his wisdom failed him, and God left him to himself to act in this impolitic manner. Even Solomon's treasures were exhausted by his love of women; and probably it was to maintain them, and their pride, luxury, and idolatry, that he burdened his subjects. 2. Turbulent and ungrateful spirits will find fault with the government, and complain of grievances, when they have very little reason to do so. Had they not peace in Solomon's time? They were never plundered by invaders, as formerly, never put in fear by the alarms of war, nor obliged to hazard their lives in the high places of the field. Had they not plenty - meat enough, and money enough? What would they more? O fortunatos nimium, sua si bona norint! - O happy, if they knew their happy state! And yet they complain that Solomon made their yoke grievous. If any complain thus of the yoke of Christ, that they might have a pretence to break his bands in sunder and cast away his cords from them, we are sure that he never gave them any cause at all for the complaint, whatever Solomon did. His yoke is easy, and his burden is light. He never made us serve with an offering, nor wearied us with incense. 3. Many ruin themselves and their interests by trampling upon and provoking their inferiors. Rehoboam thought that because he was king he might assume as much authority as his father had done, might have what he would, and do what he would, and carry all before him. But, though he wore his father's crown, he wanted his father's brains, and ought to have considered that, being quite a different man from what his father was, he ought to take other measures. Such a wise man as Solomon may do as we will, but such a fool as Rehoboam must do as he can. The high-mettled horse may be kicked and spurred by him that has the art of managing him; but, if an unskilful horseman do it, it is at his peril. Rehoboam paid dearly for threatening, and talking big, and thinking to carry matters with a high hand. It was Job's wisdom, as well as his virtue, that he despised not the cause of his man-servant or maid-servant, when they argued with him (Job 31:13), but heard them patiently, considered their reasons, and gave them a soft answer. And a similar tender consideration of those in subjection, and a forwardness to make them easy, will be the comfort and praise of all in authority, in the church, in the state, and in families. 4. Moderate counsels are generally wisest and best. Gentleness will do what violence will not do. Most people love to be accosted mildly. Rehoboam's old experienced counsellors directed him to this method (v. 7): "Be kind to this people, and please them, and speak good words to them, and thou art sure of them for ever." Good words cost nothing but a little self-denial, and yet they purchase good things. 5. God often fulfils the counsels of his own wisdom by infatuating men, and giving them up to the counsels of their own folly. No more needs to be done to ruin men than to leave them to themselves, and their own pride and passion.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–11. Public domain.

Copy as

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

Copy as

Continue studying 2 Chronicles 10:8 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.

Cross-References

Proverbs 1:25
But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof:
2 Samuel 17:14
And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.
Ecclesiastes 10:2
A wise man's heart is at his right hand; but a fool's heart at his left.
Ecclesiastes 10:3
Yea also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his wisdom faileth him, and he saith to every one that he is a fool.
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.
Ecclesiastes 10:16
¶ Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child, and thy princes eat in the morning!