2 Chronicles 11:21

Rehoboam loved Maacah daughter of Absalom more than all his wives and concubines. In all, he had eighteen wives and sixty concubines, and he was the father of twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters.

Study Bible

Rehoboam loved Maacah daughter of Absalom more than all his wives and concubines.
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, is noted for his affection towards Maacah, the daughter of Absalom. Absalom was a son of David, known for his rebellion against his father, which adds a layer of complexity to Rehoboam's choice. This preference for Maacah may reflect political alliances, as marriages often served to strengthen ties between powerful families. The mention of "loved" suggests a deep personal affection, which is significant given the cultural context where marriages were often arranged for political reasons. This preference could have influenced his political decisions and the dynamics within his household, as favoritism often led to familial strife, a recurring theme in the narratives of the kings of Israel and Judah.

In all, he had eighteen wives and sixty concubines,
Rehoboam's numerous wives and concubines reflect the practices of ancient Near Eastern royalty, where polygamy was common among kings. This practice was often a demonstration of wealth, power, and political alliances. However, it also led to complications, as seen in the lives of his predecessors, David and Solomon. The large number of wives and concubines could have contributed to internal family conflicts and divided loyalties, which were detrimental to the unity of the kingdom. This practice contrasts with the biblical ideal of monogamy as seen in Genesis 2:24 and reiterated by Jesus in Matthew 19:4-6.

and he was the father of twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters.
The large number of offspring indicates Rehoboam's significant household and the potential for future political alliances through marriage. However, it also posed challenges in terms of succession and governance, as seen in the history of Israel's monarchy. The mention of sons and daughters highlights the importance of lineage and inheritance in the biblical narrative. The numerous children could lead to disputes over succession, as seen in the case of Absalom's rebellion against David. This aspect of Rehoboam's life underscores the recurring biblical theme of the complexities and consequences of polygamous relationships, as well as the importance of wise and just leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, known for his unwise decision that led to the division of the united kingdom of Israel.

2. Maacah
The daughter of Absalom, favored wife of Rehoboam, indicating her influence in the royal household.

3. Absalom
The son of King David, known for his rebellion against his father, which adds a layer of complexity to Maacah's background.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom over which Rehoboam reigned after the division of Israel.

5. Polygamy
The practice of having multiple wives and concubines, which was common among kings of that era but often led to familial and spiritual complications.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Favoritism
Rehoboam's favoritism towards Maacah could have led to jealousy and discord within his family. Favoritism can create division and strife in any family or community setting.

Consequences of Polygamy
The practice of polygamy, while culturally accepted at the time, often led to complex family dynamics and spiritual decline, as seen in the lives of both Solomon and Rehoboam.

Influence of Family Background
Maacah's lineage as the daughter of Absalom may have brought certain influences into Rehoboam's court. Our family backgrounds can impact our decisions and relationships, for better or worse.

The Importance of Obedience to God's Commands
Rehoboam's actions reflect a disregard for God's instructions regarding marriage for kings. Obedience to God's Word is crucial for personal and communal well-being.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rehoboam's favoritism towards Maacah reflect in his leadership and family dynamics, and what can we learn from this about the impact of favoritism in our own lives?

2. Considering the warnings in Deuteronomy 17:17, what are the potential spiritual dangers of ignoring God's commands, and how can we apply this to modern-day temptations?

3. In what ways can our family backgrounds influence our decisions, and how can we ensure that we are making choices aligned with God's will?

4. How does the practice of polygamy in the Old Testament contrast with the biblical ideal of marriage, and what lessons can we draw for contemporary relationships?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a decision that required obedience to God's Word. What was the outcome, and how did it affect your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:1-4
This passage discusses Solomon's many wives and how they led him astray, providing a backdrop for understanding the potential pitfalls of Rehoboam's similar choices.

Deuteronomy 17:17
This verse warns against kings multiplying wives, which can lead their hearts astray, directly applicable to Rehoboam's situation.

Genesis 2:24
The original design for marriage as one man and one woman, contrasting with the polygamous practices of Rehoboam.