2 Chronicles 13:7

KJV

And there are gathered unto him vain men, the children of Belial, and have strengthened themselves against Rehoboam the son of Solomon, when Rehoboam was young and tenderhearted, and could not withstand them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And there are gathered {H6908} unto him vain {H7386} men {H582}, the children {H1121} of Belial {H1100}, and have strengthened {H553} themselves against Rehoboam {H7346} the son {H1121} of Solomon {H8010}, when Rehoboam {H7346} was young {H5288} and tenderhearted {H7390}{H3824}, and could not withstand {H2388} them {H6440}.

Complete Jewish Bible

There rallied around him worthless brutes who were too strong for Rechav'am the son of Shlomo to withstand when he was young and inexperienced.

Berean Standard Bible

Then worthless and wicked men gathered around him to resist Rehoboam son of Solomon when he was young, inexperienced, and unable to resist them.

American Standard Version

And there were gathered unto him worthless men, base fellows, that strengthened themselves against Rehoboam the son of Solomon, when Rehoboam was young and tender-hearted, and could not withstand them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 13:7, embedded within King Abijah of Judah's impassioned address to Jeroboam and the northern kingdom of Israel before a pivotal battle, vividly portrays the character of those who rallied behind Jeroboam's rebellion against Rehoboam, Solomon's son. The verse highlights the opportunistic nature of these "vain men" and "children of Belial" who exploited Rehoboam's initial inexperience and lack of firm resolve, setting the stage for the kingdom's division and the ensuing conflict.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a crucial component of Abijah's powerful pre-battle speech to Jeroboam and the Israelite army, recorded in [2 Chronicles 13:4-12](/2_chronicles/13-4 "2 Chronicles 13:4-12 - Abijah's Address to Jeroboam"). Abijah, the king of Judah, attempts to dissuade Israel from fighting by asserting the legitimacy of the Davidic dynasty and condemning Jeroboam's rebellion as a transgression against God's covenant. Verse 7 specifically serves to discredit Jeroboam's initial support base, painting them as morally bankrupt individuals who took advantage of a vulnerable young king. This characterization strengthens Abijah's argument that Israel's cause is unjust and against the divine order. The speech culminates in a call for Israel to return to the Lord, emphasizing Judah's reliance on God in contrast to Israel's idolatry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop is the immediate aftermath of King Solomon's death and the subsequent schism of the united monarchy, as detailed in [1 Kings 12](/1_kings/12 "1 Kings 12 - The Division of the Kingdom") and [2 Chronicles 10](/2_chronicles/10 "2 Chronicles 10 - Rehoboam's Folly"). Rehoboam, Solomon's heir, faced a delegation requesting lighter burdens, but he foolishly rejected the counsel of older, wiser advisors in favor of his youthful peers, who advocated for even harsher policies. This alienated the ten northern tribes, who then seceded and appointed Jeroboam as their king, fulfilling the prophecy given to Jeroboam by the prophet Ahijah in [1 Kings 11:29-39](/1_kings/11-29 "1 Kings 11:29-39 - Ahijah's Prophecy to Jeroboam"). Abijah's speech, delivered years later, reflects the ongoing tension and animosity between the two kingdoms, with Judah asserting its divine right to rule through the Davidic covenant and condemning Israel's idolatry and rebellion. The term "children of Belial" was a potent cultural insult, signifying individuals utterly devoid of moral worth and often associated with lawlessness and wickedness.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of **Legitimate Kingship vs. Usurpation**, contrasting the divinely ordained Davidic line with Jeroboam's rebellion, which is portrayed as illegitimate and supported by wicked individuals. It highlights the **Consequences of Poor Leadership and Counsel**, as Rehoboam's "tenderheartedness" (lack of resolve) and his earlier rejection of wise advice (as seen in [2 Chronicles 10:8-11](/2_chronicles/10-8 "2 Chronicles 10:8-11 - Rehoboam Rejects Wise Counsel")) directly contributed to the kingdom's division and his vulnerability. Furthermore, the description of Jeroboam's supporters as "vain men" and "children of Belial" emphasizes the theme of **Ungodly Influence and Moral Corruption**, illustrating how wicked individuals can exploit weakness and sow discord, leading to spiritual and political decline. This also touches upon the theme of **Divine Sovereignty vs. Human Responsibility**, where God's prophetic word of judgment against Solomon's house ([1 Kings 11:31](/1_kings/11-31 "1 Kings 11:31 - Ahijah's Prophecy of Division")) is fulfilled through the choices and actions of human agents, both foolish and wicked.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Vain men (Hebrew, _reqim_):** This term literally means "empty ones" or "worthless ones." It denotes individuals who are idle, shiftless, and morally vacuous, lacking substance, integrity, or purpose. They are often associated with mischief, deceit, and a general lack of character, making them unreliable and dangerous companions or supporters. In this context, it highlights the low moral caliber of Jeroboam's initial adherents.
* **Children of Belial (Hebrew, _b'nei beliya'al_):** This is a powerful and highly pejorative idiom. _Belial_ (בְלִיַּעַל) itself is a compound word often interpreted as "worthlessness," "wickedness," or "good-for-nothing." It signifies extreme depravity, lawlessness, and rebellion against God and legitimate authority. To be a "child of Belial" means to embody utter wickedness, to be a destructive force, and to be characterized by profound evil and opposition to righteousness. This term is used elsewhere in the Old Testament to describe exceptionally wicked individuals (e.g., the men of Gibeah in [Judges 19:22](/judges/19-22 "Judges 19:22 - The Men of Belial in Gibeah") or Nabal in [1 Samuel 25:17](/1_samuel/25-17 "1 Samuel 25:17 - Nabal, a Son of Belial")). In later Jewish tradition, Belial became personified as a demonic entity, even a name for Satan, underscoring the spiritual dimension of the wickedness described here.
* **Tenderhearted (Hebrew, _rakh levav_):** This phrase literally translates to "soft of heart" or "weak of heart." While "tenderhearted" can sometimes imply compassion, in this context, it carries a negative connotation of lacking firmness, resolve, courage, or decisiveness. Rehoboam's "softness" made him susceptible to manipulation and unable to effectively "withstand" or resist the forces of rebellion. It points to a deficiency in leadership qualities necessary for a king facing a national crisis.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there are gathered unto him vain men, the children of Belial,"**: This clause immediately characterizes Jeroboam's initial supporters. It asserts that those who rallied to his cause were not men of integrity or noble purpose, but rather individuals lacking moral substance ("vain men") and embodying profound wickedness and lawlessness ("children of Belial"). This paints Jeroboam's rebellion not merely as a political maneuver but as a movement founded on and supported by morally corrupt elements.
* **"and have strengthened themselves against Rehoboam the son of Solomon,"**: This part explains the objective of these "vain men" and "children of Belial." They did not merely join Jeroboam; they actively "strengthened themselves" (or "showed themselves strong") by aligning with him, thereby bolstering his position and power against the legitimate heir to the throne, Rehoboam. This highlights their aggressive and opportunistic nature, seeking to gain power and influence by undermining the established order.
* **"when Rehoboam was young and tenderhearted, and could not withstand them."**: This final clause provides the crucial context for why Jeroboam's supporters were able to succeed. Rehoboam's youth and "tenderheartedness" (lack of resolve, firmness, or courage) made him vulnerable. His inability to "withstand" (resist, stand firm against) their machinations and the broader rebellion underscores a critical failure in leadership at a pivotal moment, allowing the forces of division and wickedness to gain the upper hand.

#### Literary Devices
Abijah's speech in 2 Chronicles 13:7 employs several powerful literary devices to achieve its persuasive effect. **Characterization** is central, as Abijah uses highly charged terms like "vain men" and "children of Belial" to immediately discredit Jeroboam's supporters and, by extension, Jeroboam himself. This is a form of **Ad Hominem** argumentation, attacking the character of the opposition rather than just their policies. The phrase "children of Belial" functions as a potent **Idiom** and a form of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the extreme depravity and lawlessness of these individuals, elevating the conflict beyond mere politics to a moral and spiritual struggle. Furthermore, the verse employs **Contrast** by juxtaposing the aggressive, opportunistic nature of Jeroboam's supporters with Rehoboam's perceived weakness ("young and tenderhearted"). This contrast serves to evoke sympathy for Rehoboam (despite his earlier folly) and to underscore the treacherous nature of the rebellion. The description of Rehoboam's "tenderheartedness" also functions as **Pathos**, appealing to the audience's emotions regarding a young, vulnerable king facing overwhelming opposition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the spiritual dimension inherent in political and social conflicts, particularly when leadership is at stake. Abijah's characterization of Jeroboam's supporters as "children of Belial" elevates the rebellion from a mere political schism to a manifestation of wickedness and opposition to God's ordained order. It underscores the biblical principle that the character of a leader's advisors and supporters significantly impacts the trajectory of their rule and the well-being of the people. Rehoboam's "tenderheartedness" highlights the spiritual and practical dangers of a lack of resolve, discernment, and reliance on God's wisdom in leadership, demonstrating how human weakness can be exploited by forces of evil. Ultimately, the verse serves as a theological warning against aligning with those who are morally bankrupt and against the dangers of leadership that lacks the strength and wisdom to uphold righteousness, even when facing overwhelming opposition.

* [1 Samuel 2:12](/1_samuel/2-12 "1 Samuel 2:12 - The Sons of Eli as Children of Belial")
* [Proverbs 28:15](/proverbs/28-15 "Proverbs 28:15 - A Roaring Lion and a Roving Bear")
* [Psalm 1:1](/psalm/1-1 "Psalm 1:1 - The Blessed Man")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 13:7 offers timeless wisdom applicable to our personal lives, communities, and leadership roles today. It serves as a stark reminder of the profound influence of the company we keep. Just as Jeroboam gathered "vain men" and "children of Belial," we too can be swayed by individuals who lack integrity, promote discord, or undermine righteous principles. Discernment is paramount: we must prayerfully evaluate the character and motives of those we allow into our inner circle, whether as friends, advisors, or collaborators. For those in leadership, the verse is a powerful caution against indecision and a lack of spiritual fortitude. Rehoboam's "tenderheartedness" in this context was not a virtue but a vulnerability that allowed wickedness to prevail. Leaders, regardless of their sphere of influence, are called to cultivate wisdom, courage, and steadfastness, rooted in God's truth, to withstand the pressures and manipulations of ungodly forces. This verse challenges us to not only avoid being "children of Belial" ourselves but also to actively resist their influence and to stand firm for what is righteous, even when it feels like we are "young and tenderhearted" in the face of overwhelming opposition.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What kind of "vain men" or "children of Belial" might seek to influence me or my community today, and how can I discern their motives?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be "tenderhearted" or lacking in resolve, making me vulnerable to ungodly influences or temptations?**
* **How can I cultivate greater discernment and spiritual strength to "withstand" pressures that go against God's will?**
* **What steps can I take to ensure that I am surrounded by wise, godly counsel, rather than those who would lead me astray?**

### FAQ
**What does "children of Belial" truly mean, and why is it such a strong condemnation?**

Answer: "Children of Belial" (Hebrew: _b'nei beliya'al_) is a deeply condemnatory biblical idiom. _Belial_ itself means "worthlessness," "wickedness," or "good-for-nothing." Therefore, "children of Belial" refers to individuals who are utterly worthless, morally depraved, lawless, and rebellious against God and legitimate authority. It's a strong condemnation because it implies a fundamental lack of character, integrity, and adherence to any moral code. These individuals are not merely misguided; they are inherently wicked and destructive, often associated with acts of extreme malice, violence, or defiance of divine and human order. Examples in scripture include the wicked men of Gibeah in [Judges 19:22](/judges/19-22 "Judges 19:22 - The Men of Belial"), the corrupt sons of Eli in [1 Samuel 2:12](/1_samuel/2-12 "1 Samuel 2:12 - The Sons of Eli"), and Nabal, who insulted David in [1 Samuel 25:17](/1_samuel/25-17 "1 Samuel 25:17 - Nabal's Wickedness"). The term signifies a profound spiritual and moral bankruptcy.

**Why was Rehoboam described as "young and tenderhearted," and how did this contribute to his downfall?**

Answer: Rehoboam was "young" in the sense of being inexperienced as a ruler, having just ascended the throne. "Tenderhearted" (Hebrew: _rakh levav_) in this context does not imply compassion, but rather a lack of firmness, resolve, or courage. It suggests he was weak-willed, indecisive, and easily swayed. This "tenderheartedness" contributed significantly to his downfall because it made him vulnerable to the opportunistic "vain men" and "children of Belial" who joined Jeroboam. His inability to "withstand them" stemmed from his lack of decisive leadership and his earlier foolish decision to reject the wise counsel of the elders in favor of his youthful peers, as described in [1 Kings 12:6-15](/1_kings/12-6 "1 Kings 12:6-15 - Rehoboam's Folly"). This combination of inexperience and irresolution allowed the forces of rebellion to gain strength and ultimately divide the kingdom, fulfilling God's prophecy but also highlighting Rehoboam's personal failings as a king.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Chronicles 13:7, with its depiction of "vain men, the children of Belial" strengthening themselves against a "young and tenderhearted" king, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. While Rehoboam was weak and susceptible to the machinations of wicked men, Jesus Christ stands as the ultimate King, perfectly resolute and unwavering in the face of all opposition. The "children of Belial" represent the forces of spiritual wickedness and lawlessness that oppose God's kingdom, culminating in the ultimate "son of perdition" ([John 17:12](/john/17-12 "John 17:12 - Judas, the Son of Perdition")) who betrayed Christ. Yet, unlike Rehoboam, Jesus was never "tenderhearted" in the sense of being weak or indecisive. Even in His human weakness on the cross, He was perfectly resolute in fulfilling the Father's will, conquering sin and death. The New Testament identifies Belial as a demonic power, even a name for Satan ([2 Corinthians 6:15](/2_corinthians/6-15 "2 Corinthians 6:15 - Christ and Belial")), against whom believers are called to stand firm, not in their own strength, but in the power of Christ ([Ephesians 6:10-12](/ephesians/6-10 "Ephesians 6:10-12 - The Armor of God")). Jesus, the true Son of David, is the King who perfectly "withstands" all the forces of Belial, ultimately triumphing over every enemy and establishing an eternal kingdom that "shall not be destroyed" ([Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Everlasting Kingdom")), unlike the divided kingdom of Rehoboam. His strength and wisdom overcome all human weakness and all ungodly opposition, offering believers refuge and victory in Him.

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 12:13

¶ So king Rehoboam strengthened himself in Jerusalem, and reigned: for Rehoboam [was] one and forty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city which the LORD had chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, to put his name there. And his mother's name [was] Naamah an Ammonitess.

Judges 9:4

And they gave him threescore and ten [pieces] of silver out of the house of Baalberith, wherewith Abimelech hired vain and light persons, which followed him.

Proverbs 28:19

¶ He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain [persons] shall have poverty enough.

Isaiah 3:4

And I will give children [to be] their princes, and babes shall rule over them.

2 Chronicles 11:1

¶ And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he gathered of the house of Judah and Benjamin an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen [men], which were warriors, to fight against Israel, that he might bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam.

2 Chronicles 11:4

Thus saith the LORD, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren: return every man to his house: for this thing is done of me. And they obeyed the words of the LORD, and returned from going against Jeroboam.

Acts 17:5

But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.