Background and Context:

Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, ascended to the throne of Israel following Solomon's death. His reign marks a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, as it led to the division of the united kingdom into two separate entities: the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. The events surrounding Rehoboam's journey to Shechem are crucial in understanding this division.

Biblical Account:

The account of Rehoboam going to Shechem is found in 1 Kings 12:1-19 and 2 Chronicles 10:1-19. Shechem, a city of historical and religious significance, was chosen as the site for Rehoboam's coronation by the tribes of Israel. It was here that the tribes gathered to make Rehoboam king, but it was also the place where the seeds of division were sown.

1 Kings 12:1 : "Then Rehoboam went to Shechem, for all Israel had gone there to make him king."

The Request of the People:

Upon Rehoboam's arrival at Shechem, Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, who had previously fled to Egypt during Solomon's reign, returned and led the people in presenting a request to Rehoboam. The people asked for relief from the heavy burdens and harsh labor imposed by Solomon.

1 Kings 12:4 : "Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but now lighten the harsh labor and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you."

Rehoboam's Response:

Rehoboam sought counsel on how to respond to the people's request. He first consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon. They advised him to be a servant to the people and speak kindly to them, suggesting that this would secure their loyalty.

1 Kings 12:7 : "If today you will be a servant to these people and serve them, and if you will give them a favorable answer, they will always be your servants."

However, Rehoboam rejected the elders' advice and instead consulted the young men he had grown up with. They advised him to increase the burdens on the people, demonstrating his authority and strength.

1 Kings 12:10-11 : "The young men who had grown up with him replied, 'Tell these people who have said to you, "Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but you make it lighter," "My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist! Whereas my father burdened you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke. My father scourged you with whips, but I will scourge you with scorpions."'"

The Division of the Kingdom:

Rehoboam's harsh response led to a revolt among the northern tribes. They rejected Rehoboam's rule, declaring, "What portion do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, O Israel! Look now to your own house, O David!" (1 Kings 12:16). This marked the division of the kingdom, with Jeroboam becoming king over the northern tribes of Israel, while Rehoboam retained control over Judah and Benjamin in the south.

Theological Implications:

The events at Shechem highlight the importance of wise and compassionate leadership. Rehoboam's failure to heed the counsel of the elders and his decision to follow the advice of his peers resulted in the fracturing of the kingdom. This division had lasting consequences for the people of Israel, both politically and spiritually. The narrative serves as a reminder of the need for leaders to seek God's wisdom and to serve their people with humility and justice.