2 Chronicles 12:15

Now the acts of Rehoboam, first and last, [are] they not written in the book of Shemaiah the prophet, and of Iddo the seer concerning genealogies? And [there were] wars between Rehoboam and Jeroboam continually.

Now the acts {H1697} of Rehoboam {H7346}, first {H7223} and last {H314}, are they not written {H3789} in the book {H1697} of Shemaiah {H8098} the prophet {H5030}, and of Iddo {H5714} the seer {H2374} concerning genealogies {H3187}? And there were wars {H4421} between Rehoboam {H7346} and Jeroboam {H3379} continually {H3117}.

The activities of Rechav'am from beginning to end are written in the genealogically organized histories of Sh'ma'yah the prophet and 'Iddo the seer. But there were continual wars between Rechav'am and Yarov'am.

Now the acts of Rehoboam, from first to last, are they not written in the records of Shemaiah the Prophet and of Iddo the Seer concerning the genealogies? There was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam throughout their days.

Now the acts of Rehoboam, first and last, are they not written in the histories of Shemaiah the prophet and of Iddo the seer, after the manner of genealogies? And there were wars between Rehoboam and Jeroboam continually.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 12:15 concludes the account of King Rehoboam's reign, pointing to the historical sources from which the Chronicler drew his information. This verse highlights the importance of historical records and the ongoing conflict that characterized the early years of the divided kingdom.

Historical and Cultural Context

Following the death of King Solomon, the united monarchy of Israel fractured, primarily due to King Rehoboam's refusal to lighten the burdens on the people (2 Chronicles 10:13-14). This led to the northern ten tribes seceding to form the kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam, while Rehoboam remained king over the southern kingdom of Judah. The Chronicler, writing much later, often refers to other historical documents and prophetic writings to validate his narrative. This verse specifically mentions "the book of Shemaiah the prophet" and "Iddo the seer concerning genealogies," indicating that these were recognized and respected sources of historical and spiritual information within ancient Israel.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Historical Veracity: The verse emphasizes the reliability of the biblical narrative by citing external (though now lost) historical and prophetic records. This underscores the Old Testament's commitment to verifiable history.
  • Prophetic Documentation: Prophets like Shemaiah and Iddo were not only spiritual guides but also chroniclers of significant events, recording the "acts" and "genealogies" relevant to God's people. Shemaiah, for instance, had previously warned Rehoboam not to fight against Israel (2 Chronicles 11:4).
  • Persistent Conflict: The phrase "wars between Rehoboam and Jeroboam continually" underscores the tragic and enduring division that plagued the two kingdoms from their inception. This state of constant antagonism was a direct consequence of the nation's spiritual and political schism.

Linguistic Insights

The term "seer" (Hebrew: chozeh) for Iddo is often used interchangeably with "prophet" (Hebrew: navi). While both convey the idea of receiving divine revelation, chozeh often emphasizes the aspect of seeing visions or having a divine insight, highlighting the direct nature of God's communication through these individuals.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us of the value of historical records and the importance of learning from the past. Just as the Chronicler drew upon reliable sources to teach his audience, we are called to study God's Word, which is itself a divinely inspired historical record. It also serves as a somber reminder of the destructive nature of division, whether within nations, communities, or even families. The ongoing conflict between Rehoboam and Jeroboam serves as a cautionary tale against pride and disunity, urging believers to pursue peace and reconciliation, as exemplified by the apostle Paul's exhortation to live peaceably with all.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 9:29 (8 votes)

    Now the rest of the acts of Solomon, first and last, [are] they not written in the book of Nathan the prophet, and in the prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite, and in the visions of Iddo the seer against Jeroboam the son of Nebat?

  • 2 Chronicles 12:5 (4 votes)

    Then came Shemaiah the prophet to Rehoboam, and [to] the princes of Judah, that were gathered together to Jerusalem because of Shishak, and said unto them, Thus saith the LORD, Ye have forsaken me, and therefore have I also left you in the hand of Shishak.

  • 1 Kings 12:22 (3 votes)

    But the word of God came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying,

  • 2 Chronicles 13:22 (3 votes)

    And the rest of the acts of Abijah, and his ways, and his sayings, [are] written in the story of the prophet Iddo.

  • 1 Kings 14:29 (2 votes)

    Now the rest of the acts of Rehoboam, and all that he did, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

  • 1 Kings 14:30 (2 votes)

    And there was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam all [their] days.