Show Notes
Solomon is dead. The people come to crown his son Rechavam (Rehoboam) and ask for a tax break. Rechavam takes bad advice and responds to the people in an imperious, disdainful manner. In response, the northern tribes revolt and split from Rehoboam's kingdom, forming their own State and appointing Yerovam (Jeroboam) as king. This is the moment that split the kingdom, never to be reunited.
More from The Tanakh Podcast
Yerovam has become king in the North. But he needs a new religious center. If the prople keep celebrating their holidays at the Temple in Jerusalem, he will lose legitimacy. Yerovam builds two new Temples in Dan and Bethel setting up a golden calf (!) in each shrine. But, the Tanakh tells us that this was a grave error. Chapter 13 reveals the people's confusion. Is Yerovam legitimate or illegitimate?
"In his old age, his wives turned away Solomon’s heart after other gods, and he was not wholeheartedly devoted to God." How did the wisest of men make such a blunder? Did Solomon actually worship idolatry? --- To support us, please donate at: https://buymeacoffee.com/alexisrael https://patreon.com/u51407457 Special parsha Friday video at alexisrael.org/whatsapp
Our chapter describes Shlomo as a powerbroker in the region, controlling trade and accruing great wealth. But are these the correct priorities?
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