2 Chronicles 11:19

She bore sons to him: Jeush, Shemariah, and Zaham.

Study Bible

She bore sons to him:
This phrase refers to the offspring of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and king of Judah. The mother mentioned here is Maacah, the favorite wife of Rehoboam. In the context of ancient Israel, lineage and descendants were crucial for maintaining dynastic continuity and fulfilling God's promises to David about his descendants ruling Israel. The birth of sons was particularly significant as they were potential heirs to the throne, ensuring the continuation of the Davidic line.

Jeush:
Jeush is the first son mentioned. His name means "he will help" or "he will support," which may reflect the hope or expectation placed upon him by his parents. Although not much is detailed about Jeush in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogy underscores the importance of family lineage in the chronicling of Israel's history. The name Jeush appears elsewhere in the Bible, indicating it was a common name, possibly reflecting a cultural or familial tradition.

Shemariah:
Shemariah, the second son, has a name meaning "kept by Yahweh" or "protected by the Lord." This name reflects a common practice of embedding the name of God (Yahweh) within personal names, signifying a dedication or hope for divine protection and favor. The use of such theophoric names was prevalent in Israelite culture, indicating a deep-seated belief in God's active role in the lives of His people.

and Zaham:
Zaham, the third son, has a name that is less common and its meaning is uncertain, though it may imply "fat" or "plump," possibly indicating prosperity or abundance. The mention of Zaham, like his brothers, serves to complete the record of Rehoboam's offspring, emphasizing the importance of documenting the royal lineage. The inclusion of these names in the biblical text highlights the chronicler's intent to provide a comprehensive account of the Davidic dynasty, which was central to the identity and hope of the nation of Judah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, Rehoboam's reign is marked by division and conflict, as the kingdom of Israel splits into two.

2. Maacah
The wife of Rehoboam and mother of Jeush, Shemariah, and Zaham. She is noted for her influence in the royal family and her lineage, being the granddaughter of Absalom.

3. Jeush, Shemariah, and Zaham
Sons of Rehoboam and Maacah, their mention signifies the continuation of the Davidic line through Rehoboam.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom over which Rehoboam ruled after the division of Israel. It is significant as the lineage of David and the eventual birthplace of Jesus Christ.

5. Division of the Kingdom
The context of this verse is the divided kingdom, where Rehoboam's rule is limited to Judah and Benjamin, following the rebellion led by Jeroboam.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Lineage
The mention of Rehoboam's sons underscores the significance of family and lineage in God's plan. It reminds us of the importance of heritage and the role of family in spiritual legacy.

Consequences of Division
The divided kingdom serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience and poor leadership. It encourages us to seek unity and wisdom in our communities and families.

God's Sovereignty in History
Despite human failures, God's plan continues through history. This reassures us that God is in control, even when circumstances seem chaotic.

Influence of Relationships
Maacah's role as a mother and wife highlights the influence of relationships in shaping history. It challenges us to consider the impact of our relationships on our spiritual journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lineage of Rehoboam and his sons reflect the importance of family in God's plan? Consider the broader biblical account.

2. What lessons can we learn from the division of the kingdom under Rehoboam's rule, and how can these lessons apply to maintaining unity in our own communities?

3. In what ways does the account of Rehoboam and his family demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our trust in God's plan for our lives?

4. How can the influence of Maacah in Rehoboam's life encourage us to evaluate the relationships we have and their impact on our spiritual growth?

5. Reflect on the genealogies in the Bible, such as in Matthew 1. How do they help us understand the continuity of God's promises and the fulfillment of His plan through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11-12
These chapters provide the background of Rehoboam's reign and the division of the kingdom, offering insight into the political and spiritual climate of the time.

2 Samuel 13-18
These chapters detail the life of Absalom, Maacah's grandfather, whose rebellion against David foreshadows the division in Rehoboam's time.

Matthew 1:1-17
The genealogy of Jesus Christ, which traces the lineage through David and Solomon, highlighting the importance of the Davidic line.