Jeroboam I
Jeroboam I was the first king of the northern Kingdom of Israel, ascending to the throne around 925 BCE after a revolt against Rehoboam, which marked the end of the United Monarchy. Initially an official in King Solomon's administration, he was chosen by the prophet Ahijah to lead Israel, but he fled to Egypt to escape Solomon's wrath. Upon Solomon's death, Jeroboam returned and became king, initiating significant building projects, including the reconstruction of Shechem and Penuel, and establishing religious centers at Dan and Bethel, where he set up golden calves for worship. His reign is characterized by the appointment of non-Levitical priests and rituals that diverged from the norms established in Jerusalem. Jeroboam's actions, particularly the establishment of rival religious practices, earned him a negative portrayal in biblical texts, where he is often seen as an archetype of evil. His legacy continued through his son, who succeeded him as king of Israel.
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Subject Terms
Jeroboam I
Related civilizations: Israel, Judah, Syria
Major role/position: King
Life
Jeroboam I (jehr-uh-BOH-uhm) became the king of Israel around 925 b.c.e. Literary material in the Hebrew Bible is primarily in 1 Kings 11-15 and 2 Chronicles 10 and 13. Jeroboam appears as an official in the royal administration of King Solomon in charge of a conscripted labor force. The prophet Ahijah chooses him to replace Solomon. Solomon tries to arrest Jeroboam, but he escapes to Egypt, returning to Israel after Solomon’s death.
After Jeroboam is anointed king of Israel, he embarks on several building projects. He rebuilds Shechem and Penuel and religious centers at Dan and Bethel with statues of golden calves or bulls. He offers sacrifice at the altar and appoints non-Levitical priests. Upon his death, his son becomes king of Israel.
Influence
He is portrayed as the archetype of evil by the Deuteronomist editors of the book of Kings. Scholars understand the sins as the establishment of non-Levitical priests, the establishment of religious centers as rivals to Jerusalem, the making of the golden calves, and the worship of Yahweh contrary to the norm of the Deuteronomist editors.
Bibliography
Ahlström, G. The History of Ancient Palestine. Minneapolis, Minn.: Fortress Press, 1993.
Toews, W. Monarchy and Religious Institutions in Israel Under Jeroboam I. Atlanta, Ga.: Scholars Press, 1993.