2 Chronicles 11:23

KJV

And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fenced city: and he gave them victual in abundance. And he desired many wives.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he dealt wisely {H995}, and dispersed {H6555} of all his children {H1121} throughout all the countries {H776} of Judah {H3063} and Benjamin {H1144}, unto every fenced {H4694} city {H5892}: and he gave {H5414} them victual {H4202} in abundance {H7230}. And he desired {H7592} many {H1995} wives {H802}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He was wise in his treatment of his sons, sending all of them throughout the territory of Y'hudah and Binyamin, to every fortified city, providing them with plenty of supplies and seeking for them many wives.

Berean Standard Bible

Rehoboam also acted wisely by dispersing some of his sons throughout the districts of Judah and Benjamin, and to all the fortified cities. He gave them abundant provisions and sought many wives for them.

American Standard Version

And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his sons throughout all the lands of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fortified city: and he gave them victuals in abundance. And he sought for them many wives.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following the traumatic division of the Israelite kingdom, 2 Chronicles 11:23 reveals a period of strategic wisdom and consolidation under King Rehoboam. The verse details his prudent decision to disperse his numerous sons throughout the fortified cities of Judah and Benjamin, thereby securing loyalty, preventing internal power struggles, and ensuring administrative control. This pragmatic approach to governance and family management, which included providing abundantly for his children, stands in stark contrast to his earlier folly, yet it concludes with a telling mention of his extensive polygamy, a practice that carried its own complex implications for the royal household and adherence to divine law.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader narrative detailing Rehoboam's reign after the catastrophic schism of the kingdom, which saw ten tribes secede to form Israel under Jeroboam. The Chronicler, writing from a post-exilic perspective, emphasizes the Davidic line and the legitimate worship in Jerusalem, often highlighting the consequences of fidelity or infidelity to God. Having initially prepared for war against the northern kingdom, Rehoboam was divinely commanded to desist, a rare instance of obedience from him, as recorded in [2 Chronicles 11:4](/2_chronicles/11-4 "2 Chronicles 11:4 - Rehoboam Obeys God's Command"). The preceding verses in [2 Chronicles 11](/2_chronicles/11 "2 Chronicles 11 - Rehoboam Fortifies Judah") describe his subsequent efforts to consolidate power within the remaining tribes of Judah and Benjamin by fortifying cities (e.g., [2 Chronicles 11:5-12](/2_chronicles/11-5-12 "2 Chronicles 11:5-12 - Rehoboam's Fortified Cities")). Verse 23 then shifts focus from external defense to internal stability, highlighting Rehoboam's shrewd domestic policy concerning his large royal family, which was intrinsically linked to his national security and succession planning. It marks a period of relative stability before the invasion of Shishak in [2 Chronicles 12](/2_chronicles/12 "2 Chronicles 12 - Shishak's Invasion"), setting the stage for further challenges to his reign.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the dispersion of royal sons throughout a kingdom was a common and effective strategy for maintaining control and preventing internal rebellions or succession disputes. By placing his sons in key fortified cities, Rehoboam was not merely providing for their welfare but was strategically embedding loyal administrators and military leaders across his territory. This practice ensured royal oversight and influence in local affairs, strengthening the central government's grip on the provinces and safeguarding the dynastic line. Furthermore, polygamy was a widespread practice among monarchs, often serving political purposes (forming alliances through marriage) and ensuring a large number of heirs to secure the dynastic line. However, for Israelite kings, the Mosaic Law specifically cautioned against multiplying wives (see [Deuteronomy 17:17](/deuteronomy/17-17 "Deuteronomy 17:17 - The King's Prohibition on Multiplying Wives")), recognizing the potential for spiritual deviation and internal strife, as tragically exemplified by Rehoboam's father, Solomon (see [1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1-8 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Wives Lead Him Astray")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several key themes within the Chronicler's narrative. Firstly, it showcases **Rehoboam's Strategic Wisdom**, a marked contrast to his earlier rash decisions that directly led to the kingdom's division (cf. [1 Kings 12:13-14](/1_kings/12-13-14 "1 Kings 12:13-14 - Rehoboam's Harsh Reply")). The Chronicler emphasizes his newfound prudence in managing complex family and political dynamics, indicating a period of growth in his leadership. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Consolidation of Power and Succession Planning**. By dispersing his sons, Rehoboam effectively extended his administrative reach and secured potential successors, minimizing the risk of internal challenges and ensuring the continuity of the Davidic monarchy in Judah. This was crucial for the stability of the truncated kingdom. Thirdly, the concluding phrase, "And he desired many wives," subtly introduces the theme of **Polygamy and its Implications**. While presented as a factual statement, it echoes a recurring motif in Israelite kingship narratives, often foreshadowing spiritual compromise or familial discord, even when coupled with apparent wisdom in other areas. This practice, though culturally accepted, stood in tension with divine instruction and often led to complex and problematic outcomes for the royal house and the nation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wisely (Hebrew, _bîyn'_):** Derived from the primitive root H995, meaning "to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e. (generally) understand." In this context, it signifies more than mere cunning; it implies a deep, thoughtful, and insightful approach to a complex situation. Rehoboam's actions are presented as a result of careful deliberation and sound judgment, indicating a significant development in his leadership capabilities compared to his earlier, impulsive decisions. It suggests a capacity to grasp the implications of his actions and plan effectively for the future of his kingdom and dynasty, demonstrating a newfound prudence.
* **Dispersed (Hebrew, _pârats'_):** From the primitive root H6555, meaning "to break out (in many applications, direct and indirect, literal and figurative); [idiom] abroad, (make a) breach, break (away, down, -er, forth, in, up), burst out, come (spread) abroad, compel, disperse, grow, increase, open, press, scatter, urge." This word conveys a sense of deliberate, expansive, and forceful distribution. It's not a passive scattering but an active, strategic deployment of his children. The verb suggests Rehoboam's initiative in breaking up potential concentrations of power among his sons and spreading them across the land to serve his broader objectives of control and stability.
* **Many (Hebrew, _hâmôwn'_):** From H1995, meaning "a noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth; abundance, company, many, multitude, multiply, noise, riches, rumbling, sounding, store, tumult." When used to describe "wives," it emphasizes the sheer quantity of women Rehoboam took. This numerical abundance, while perhaps intended to secure dynastic stability through numerous heirs, implicitly carries the negative connotations of "tumult" or "disquietude" associated with the root word, hinting at the potential for internal strife and spiritual compromise that polygamy often brought to the royal household in Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he dealt wisely":** This opening phrase immediately sets a positive tone, indicating a significant shift in Rehoboam's character and governance. It contrasts sharply with his earlier foolishness that led to the kingdom's division, suggesting a period of learning and maturation. This wisdom is then demonstrated by his subsequent actions, highlighting a pragmatic and effective approach to leadership.
* **"and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fenced city":** This clause details the specific act of Rehoboam's wisdom. By strategically placing his numerous sons in the fortified cities, he achieved multiple objectives: he provided for his large family, prevented internal rivalries among his sons for power at the capital, secured loyalty and administrative control over key regional centers, and established a network of royal representatives across his diminished kingdom. This was a sophisticated move to stabilize his reign and manage succession, extending his influence beyond Jerusalem.
* **"and he gave them victual in abundance":** This indicates Rehoboam's generous provision for his sons, ensuring their welfare and enabling them to effectively carry out their administrative and military duties in their assigned cities. This provision further solidified their loyalty and underscored the king's commitment to their well-being, reinforcing the stability of his dynastic strategy and ensuring they had the resources to maintain their positions.
* **"And he desired many wives":** This concluding statement, while seemingly a simple observation, carries significant weight. It highlights Rehoboam's extensive polygamy, a practice common among ancient kings for political and dynastic reasons, but specifically cautioned against in Mosaic Law for Israelite kings ([Deuteronomy 17:17](/deuteronomy/17-17 "Deuteronomy 17:17 - The King's Prohibition on Multiplying Wives")). Its placement immediately after an account of his wisdom creates a subtle tension, suggesting that even a wise leader can harbor desires or engage in practices that may, in the long run, lead to complications or spiritual compromise, as tragically seen in the life of his father, Solomon ([1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1-8 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Wives Lead Him Astray")).

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its nuanced message. There is a clear **Contrast** between Rehoboam's initial folly, which led to the kingdom's division, and the "wisdom" he now demonstrates in managing his family and consolidating his remaining territory. This highlights a period of growth and pragmatic leadership, showing a king who learns from his mistakes. **Juxtaposition** is also evident, as the detailed account of his strategic and wise actions is immediately followed by the blunt statement about his desire for "many wives." This abrupt shift subtly introduces a potential flaw or area of concern, even amidst his apparent success, creating a sense of unease. The mention of "many wives" can also be seen as a form of **Foreshadowing** or **Irony**, echoing the similar practice of his father, Solomon, whose numerous foreign wives ultimately led him astray from God. While the verse doesn't explicitly state negative consequences for Rehoboam here, the Chronicler's audience would have been acutely aware of the historical implications of such a practice for Israelite kings, subtly hinting at future challenges or spiritual compromises despite his current display of wisdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 11:23 offers a nuanced perspective on leadership, demonstrating that even flawed individuals can learn and exhibit periods of profound wisdom. Rehoboam's strategic actions underscore the importance of pragmatic governance and foresight in managing complex family and political dynamics, especially in a time of national instability. However, the verse also subtly introduces the tension between human wisdom and divine principles, particularly concerning the practice of polygamy. While Rehoboam's dispersion of his sons was a shrewd political move to secure his kingdom, his multiplying of wives, though culturally accepted and perhaps politically expedient, stood in direct contravention of God's specific commands for Israelite kings. This foreshadows potential spiritual and familial complications, highlighting a recurring biblical theme: true wisdom is not merely cunning or effective strategy, but also adherence to God's revealed will, which ultimately ensures lasting stability and blessing.

* [Deuteronomy 17:17](/deuteronomy/17-17 "Deuteronomy 17:17 - The King's Prohibition on Multiplying Wives")
* [1 Kings 11:1-4](/1_kings/11-1-4 "1 Kings 11:1-4 - Solomon's Wives Lead Him Astray")
* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Rehoboam's story in 2 Chronicles 11:23 offers valuable lessons for leaders and individuals alike. It demonstrates that even after significant failures, there is room for growth, learning, and the application of wisdom. Rehoboam, who once stubbornly rejected wise counsel and precipitated the kingdom's division, later exhibits strategic foresight in securing his kingdom and managing his family. This reminds us that past mistakes do not define our future potential for effective and discerning action; rather, they can be catalysts for growth and a deeper understanding of true wisdom. For those in positions of leadership, the verse underscores the importance of strategic planning, proactive problem-solving (like preventing internal power struggles), and providing for those under one's care. However, the concluding mention of his many wives serves as a crucial caveat: even when human wisdom is employed effectively in one area, unaddressed desires or culturally accepted practices that diverge from divine principles can sow seeds for future complications. It challenges us to consider not just the immediate efficacy of our plans, but their long-term spiritual and moral implications, striving for a holistic wisdom that aligns with God's character and commands.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Rehoboam's "wisdom" in this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of what true wisdom entails?**
* **In what areas of your life or leadership might you be demonstrating practical wisdom, while potentially overlooking subtle areas of compromise or unaddressed desires?**
* **How can we, like Rehoboam, learn from past mistakes and apply newfound discernment to current challenges?**
* **What are the potential long-term consequences of making decisions based solely on pragmatic effectiveness, without considering moral or spiritual guidelines?**

### FAQ
**Why did Rehoboam disperse his children throughout Judah and Benjamin?**

Answer: Rehoboam dispersed his many sons throughout the fortified cities of Judah and Benjamin as a strategic act of wisdom to consolidate his power and ensure the stability of his kingdom. This served several key purposes: it prevented potential power struggles and rivalries among his numerous sons by scattering them rather than allowing them to concentrate influence in the capital; it secured loyalty and administrative control over key regions by placing trusted family members in positions of authority; and it provided for his large royal family by giving them significant roles and resources in the various cities. This was a common practice in ancient monarchies to manage succession and maintain control over a large territory, especially after a significant political upheaval like the division of the kingdom (see [2 Chronicles 10](/2_chronicles/10 "2 Chronicles 10 - The Kingdom Divides")).

**Was Rehoboam's practice of having "many wives" acceptable for an Israelite king?**

Answer: While polygamy was a common practice among ancient Near Eastern monarchs for political alliances and producing many heirs, it was explicitly cautioned against for Israelite kings in the Mosaic Law. [Deuteronomy 17:17](/deuteronomy/17-17 "Deuteronomy 17:17 - The King's Prohibition on Multiplying Wives") states that a king "must not multiply wives for himself, or else his heart will turn away." Rehoboam's father, King Solomon, famously violated this command, and his many foreign wives indeed led his heart astray from God (see [1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1-8 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Wives Lead Him Astray")). While 2 Chronicles 11:23 simply states that Rehoboam "desired many wives" without immediate judgment, the Chronicler's audience would have understood this practice as a potential source of spiritual compromise and familial strife, even if it was culturally accepted or politically expedient at the time.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Rehoboam's strategic wisdom in securing his kingdom and his dynastic line, even while flawed by his personal desires, points to the ultimate and perfect King, Jesus Christ. Unlike Rehoboam, whose kingdom was divided and whose reign was marked by both wisdom and compromise, Christ's kingdom is eternally united and perfectly governed (see [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")). Rehoboam's effort to disperse his sons to maintain control foreshadows Christ's perfect administration of His spiritual kingdom, not through dispersed earthly sons, but through the indwelling Holy Spirit and the establishment of His Church, which extends His rule and influence to every corner of the earth (see [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness") and [Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head of the Church")). Furthermore, while Rehoboam sought to secure his succession through multiplying wives and sons, Christ's eternal reign and perfect "seed" are secured through His singular, perfect obedience and resurrection, establishing an everlasting covenant that requires no human procreation or political maneuvering (see [Hebrews 7:23-25](/hebrews/7-23-25 "Hebrews 7:23-25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood")). He is the true Lamb of God, the ultimate Son, who perfectly fulfills God's law and provides abundantly for His people, not with "victual" alone, but with eternal life and spiritual sustenance (see [John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of 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 10:8

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.

2 Chronicles 10:15

So the king hearkened not unto the people: for the cause was of God, that the LORD might perform his word, which he spake by the hand of Ahijah the Shilonite to Jeroboam the son of Nebat.

1 Kings 1:5

¶ Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him.

1 Kings 1:6

And his father had not displeased him at any time in saying, Why hast thou done so? and he also [was a] very goodly [man]; and [his mother] bare him after Absalom.

Genesis 25:6

But unto the sons of the concubines, which Abraham had, Abraham gave gifts, and sent them away from Isaac his son, while he yet lived, eastward, unto the east country.

Luke 16:8

And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.

2 Chronicles 21:3

And their father gave them great gifts of silver, and of gold, and of precious things, with fenced cities in Judah: but the kingdom gave he to Jehoram; because he [was] the firstborn.