1 Kings 12:3
New International Version
So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and the whole assembly of Israel went to Rehoboam and said to him:

New Living Translation
The leaders of Israel summoned him, and Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel went to speak with Rehoboam.

English Standard Version
And they sent and called him, and Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came and said to Rehoboam,

Berean Standard Bible
So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and the whole assembly of Israel came to Rehoboam and said,

Berean Literal Bible
and they sent and called to him, and came Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

King James Bible
That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying,

New King James Version
that they sent and called him. Then Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

New American Standard Bible
Then they sent word and summoned him, and Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

NASB 1995
Then they sent and called him, and Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

NASB 1977
Then they sent and called him, and Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

Legacy Standard Bible
Then they sent and called for him. And Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

Amplified Bible
So they sent word and called for him, and Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

Berean Annotated Bible
So they sent for Jeroboam, and he (the people will contend) and the whole assembly of Israel (he wrestles with God) came to Rehoboam (a people has enlarged) and said,

Christian Standard Bible
But they summoned him, and Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam:

Holman Christian Standard Bible
They summoned him, and Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam: “

American Standard Version
and they sent and called him), that Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying,

Contemporary English Version
But the people from the northern tribes of Israel sent for him. Then together they went to Rehoboam and said,

English Revised Version
and they sent and called him;) that Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying,

GOD'S WORD® Translation
[Israel] sent for Jeroboam and invited him back. Jeroboam and the entire assembly of Israel went to speak to Rehoboam. They said,

Good News Translation
The people of the northern tribes sent for him, and then they all went together to Rehoboam and said to him,

International Standard Version
after being summoned. When Jeroboam and the entire assembly of Israel arrived, they spoke to Rehoboam,

NET Bible
They sent for him, and Jeroboam and the whole Israelite assembly came and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

New Heart English Bible
And they sent and called for him. And Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came, and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

Webster's Bible Translation
That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and the whole assembly of Israel came to Rehoboam and said,

World English Bible
and they sent and called him), Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came, and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
that they send and call for him; and they come—Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel—and speak to Rehoboam, saying,

Berean Literal Bible
and they sent and called to him, and came Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

Young's Literal Translation
that they send and call for him; and they come -- Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel -- and speak unto Rehoboam, saying,

Smith's Literal Translation
And they will send and call for him: and Jeroboam and all the convocation of Israel will come and speak to Rehoboam, saying,
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And they sent and called him: and Jeroboam came, and all the multitude of Israel, and they spoke to Roboam, saying:

Catholic Public Domain Version
And they sent and called him. Therefore, Jeroboam went, with the entire multitude of Israel, and they spoke to Rehoboam, saying:

New American Bible
and they sent for him. Then Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel came and they said to Rehoboam,

New Revised Standard Version
And they sent and called him; and Jeroboam and all the assembly of Israel came and said to Rehoboam,
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Then they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the people of Israel came, and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,And he gave a sign the same day, saying, This is the sign which the LORD has sent me: Behold, the altar shall be rent, and the ashes that are upon it shall be poured out.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And they sent and they called him and Yorbaam came and all the people of Israel, and they said to Rakhab.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
and they sent and called him--that Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spoke unto Rehoboam, saying:

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And the people spoke to king Roboam, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy;

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Rebellion Against Rehoboam
2When Jeroboam son of Nebat heard about this, he was still in Egypt where he had fled from King Solomon and had been living ever since. 3So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and the whole assembly of Israel came to Rehoboam and said, 4“Your father put a heavy yoke on us. But now you should lighten the burden of your father’s service and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you.”…

Cross References
So they sent for Jeroboam,

Genesis 41:14
So Pharaoh sent for Joseph, who was quickly brought out of the dungeon. After he had shaved and changed his clothes, he went in before Pharaoh.

Exodus 8:8
Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Pray to the LORD to take the frogs away from me and my people. Then I will let your people go, that they may sacrifice to the LORD.”

Jeremiah 37:17
Later, King Zedekiah sent for Jeremiah and received him in his palace, where he asked him privately, “Is there a word from the LORD?” “There is,” Jeremiah replied. “You will be delivered into the hand of the king of Babylon.”
and he and the whole assembly of Israel

Joshua 8:35
There was not a word of all that Moses had commanded that Joshua failed to read before the whole assembly of Israel, including the women, the little ones, and the foreigners who lived among them.

2 Chronicles 5:2
At that time Solomon assembled in Jerusalem the elders of Israel—all the tribal heads and family leaders of the Israelites—to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD from Zion, the City of David.

1 Kings 8:1
At that time Solomon assembled before him in Jerusalem the elders of Israel—all the tribal heads and family leaders of the Israelites—to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD from Zion, the City of David.
came to Rehoboam

2 Chronicles 10:3
So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and all Israel came to Rehoboam and said,

2 Samuel 5:1
Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “Here we are, your own flesh and blood.
and said,

2 Chronicles 10:4
“Your father put a heavy yoke on us. But now you must lighten the burden of your father’s service and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you.”

Judges 8:22
Then the Israelites said to Gideon, “Rule over us—you and your son and grandson—for you have saved us from the hand of Midian.”

1 Samuel 8:5
“Look,” they said, “you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king to judge us like all the other nations.”
1 Kings 11:26-40
Now Jeroboam son of Nebat was an Ephraimite from Zeredah whose mother was a widow named Zeruah. Jeroboam was a servant of Solomon, but he rebelled against the king, / and this is the account of his rebellion against the king. Solomon had built the supporting terraces and repaired the gap in the wall of the city of his father David. / Now Jeroboam was a mighty man of valor. So when Solomon noticed that the young man was industrious, he put him in charge of the whole labor force of the house of Joseph. …

Exodus 1:11-14
So the Egyptians appointed taskmasters over the Israelites to oppress them with forced labor. As a result, they built Pithom and Rameses as store cities for Pharaoh. / But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and flourished; so the Egyptians came to dread the Israelites. / They worked the Israelites ruthlessly …

1 Samuel 8:4-22
So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. / “Look,” they said, “you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king to judge us like all the other nations.” / But when they said, “Give us a king to judge us,” their demand was displeasing in the sight of Samuel; so he prayed to the LORD. …

1 Kings 11:11-13
Then the LORD said to Solomon, “Because you have done this and have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I have commanded you, I will tear the kingdom away from you and give it to your servant. / Nevertheless, for the sake of your father David, I will not do it during your lifetime; I will tear it out of the hand of your son. / Yet I will not tear the whole kingdom away from him. I will give one tribe to your son for the sake of My servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, which I have chosen.”

2 Samuel 20:1-2
Now a worthless man named Sheba son of Bichri, a Benjamite, happened to be there, and he blew the ram’s horn and shouted: “We have no share in David, no inheritance in Jesse’s son. Every man to his tent, O Israel!” / So all the men of Israel deserted David to follow Sheba son of Bichri. But the men of Judah stayed by their king all the way from the Jordan to Jerusalem.


Treasury of Scripture

That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,

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Assembly Congregation Israel Jeroboam Jerobo'am Rehoboam Rehobo'am Speak Whole
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Assembly Congregation Israel Jeroboam Jerobo'am Rehoboam Rehobo'am Speak Whole
1 Kings 12
1. The Israelites, assembled at Shechem to crown Rehoboam,
4. by Jeroboam make a suit of relaxation unto him
6. Rehoboam, refusing the old men's counsel, answers them roughly
16. Ten tribes revolting, kill Adoram, and make Rehoboam flee
21. Rehoboam, raising an army, is forbidden by Shemaiah
25. Jeroboam strengthens himself by cities
26. and by idolatry of the two calves












So they sent for Jeroboam
Jeroboam was an Ephraimite and a former official under King Solomon, known for his leadership and administrative skills. His return from Egypt, where he had fled from Solomon, signifies a pivotal moment in Israel's history. This action reflects the people's desire for change and their recognition of Jeroboam's potential as a leader. The sending for Jeroboam indicates a collective decision by the tribes, highlighting the political unrest and dissatisfaction with Solomon's oppressive policies. This moment fulfills the prophecy given by the prophet Ahijah, who had foretold Jeroboam's rise to power over ten tribes of Israel (1 Kings 11:29-31).

and he and the whole assembly of Israel
The phrase "the whole assembly of Israel" suggests a united front among the tribes, excluding Judah and Benjamin, who were more aligned with Rehoboam. This assembly represents the northern tribes' collective grievances and their readiness to confront Rehoboam. The unity among the tribes underscores the widespread discontent with the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon's reign, such as forced labor and high taxes. This assembly's actions foreshadow the eventual division of the kingdom, a significant event in Israel's history.

came to Rehoboam
Rehoboam, Solomon's son, had ascended to the throne and was in Shechem for his coronation. Shechem, a city with historical significance, was a central location for tribal gatherings and covenant renewals, such as the one led by Joshua (Joshua 24). The choice of Shechem for this meeting underscores its importance as a place of decision-making and covenant. Rehoboam's response to the assembly's demands would determine the future of his reign and the unity of the kingdom.

and said
The assembly's approach to Rehoboam was a formal request for relief from the harsh policies of Solomon's administration. Their willingness to negotiate indicates a desire for reconciliation and reform rather than immediate rebellion. This moment is crucial as it tests Rehoboam's wisdom and ability to lead. His response, influenced by the counsel he chooses to follow, ultimately leads to the division of the kingdom, fulfilling the divine judgment pronounced due to Solomon's idolatry (1 Kings 11:11-13).

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jeroboam
A former official of Solomon who fled to Egypt to escape Solomon's wrath. He was prophesied to become king over ten tribes of Israel.

2. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and the king of Israel at this time. His leadership and decisions are central to the events of this chapter.

3. Assembly of Israel
The collective group representing the tribes of Israel, seeking relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon.

4. Shechem
The place where Rehoboam went to be made king, a significant location in Israel's history for covenant renewals and leadership transitions.

5. Egypt
The place where Jeroboam fled and stayed until Solomon's death, symbolizing a place of refuge and political asylum.
Teaching Points
Leadership and Listening
Rehoboam's failure to listen to wise counsel serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of humility and seeking godly advice in leadership.

Burden and Rest
The Israelites' request for lighter burdens reminds us of the human need for rest and relief, pointing us to Christ who offers spiritual rest.

Consequences of Division
The division of the kingdom following Rehoboam's decision illustrates the long-term consequences of poor leadership and the importance of unity in the body of Christ.

Prophetic Fulfillment
The events leading to Jeroboam's rise fulfill God's word through the prophet Ahijah, reminding us of God's sovereignty and the certainty of His promises.

Seeking God's Will
The account encourages believers to seek God's will and guidance in times of decision-making, rather than relying solely on human wisdom.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Kings 12:3?

2. How does 1 Kings 12:3 illustrate the importance of seeking wise counsel?

3. What role does Jeroboam play in the events of 1 Kings 12:3?

4. How can we apply the lessons from 1 Kings 12:3 in leadership today?

5. What scriptural connections exist between 1 Kings 12:3 and Proverbs on wisdom?

6. How does 1 Kings 12:3 reflect God's sovereignty in Israel's leadership transition?

7. Why did Jeroboam and the assembly summon Rehoboam in 1 Kings 12:3?

8. How does 1 Kings 12:3 reflect on leadership and authority?

9. What historical context led to the events in 1 Kings 12:3?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Kings 12?

11. How credible is the historical claim in 1 Kings 12:19 that Israel permanently rebelled against the Davidic dynasty?

12. What was Jeroboam's sin in biblical history?

13. How did Judah's kings follow or stray from God?

14. How do we reconcile the promise of Solomon having a peaceful reign (1 Chronicles 22:9) with the conflicts and eventual division of the kingdom after his rule?
What Does 1 Kings 12:3 Mean
So they sent for Jeroboam

• The northern tribes deliberately reach out to the very man God had earlier chosen to lead them (1 Kings 11:29–37).

• Their sending shows dissatisfaction with Solomon’s heavy yoke and hope that Jeroboam can negotiate relief (1 Kings 12:2; 5:13-14).

• God’s providence shines here: what looks like simple political maneuvering actually fulfills the word the Lord already spoke through Ahijah.


and he

• Jeroboam returns from Egypt without hesitation, signaling courage and a sense of divine appointment (1 Kings 11:40; 12:2).

• His willingness mirrors other servants who moved when called—think Moses stepping back into Egypt (Exodus 3:4, 10).

• This swift obedience sets the stage for God’s larger plan to split the kingdom (1 Kings 11:37).


and the whole assembly of Israel

• Not a fringe group but “all Israel” stands behind Jeroboam, showing broad frustration with Solomon’s policies (1 Kings 12:16).

• The united front recalls earlier national petitions, such as the elders asking Samuel for a king (1 Samuel 8:4).

• Their solidarity underscores that Rehoboam faces a national crisis, not a personal squabble.


came to Rehoboam

• The delegation approaches the rightful king—respecting the throne while challenging its policies (1 Kings 11:43; 12:6).

• They give Rehoboam an opportunity to lead wisely, echoing Proverbs 15:22 about seeking counsel.

• God’s sovereignty places the choice before Rehoboam: listen and unify the kingdom, or reject and fracture it.


and said

• Their upcoming plea (“Your father put a heavy yoke on us; lighten it”—1 Ki 12:4) is straightforward and respectful.

• They appeal to biblical principles of just rule (Deuteronomy 17:14-20) and hope for relief from forced labor.

• The spoken word becomes the tipping point; Rehoboam’s reply will confirm or counter the prophecy already in motion.


summary

1 Kings 12:3 captures a divinely orchestrated meeting: Israel, burdened by Solomon’s labor demands, summons Jeroboam—the man God marked for future leadership—to confront Rehoboam. Their unified approach honors the throne yet seeks justice. Jeroboam’s ready response and the people’s collective voice lay a clear choice before Rehoboam. God’s word, previously given, stands behind every move, assuring us that even political unrest unfolds under His sovereign hand.

Verse 3. - That [Heb. and] they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came [It has been held that this verse is largely an interpolation. The LXX. Cod. Vat. has simply, "And the people spake unto king Rehoboam, saying." Of more importance, however, is the fact that it is at direct variance with ver. 20, which places the appearance of Jeroboam on the scene after the revolt of the tribes. Indeed, these two verses can only be brought into agreement by the questionable device of understanding the "all Israel" of ver. 20 very differently from the same expression in ver. 1. If, however, we follow in this instance the LXX., which omits the name of Jeroboam both here and in ver. 12 (and which thereby implies that he was not one of the deputation to Rehoboam, but, as ver. 2 states, was at that time still in Egypt), the difficulty vanishes. Ver. 20 then becomes the natural and logical continuation of vers. 2, 3. "And Jeroboam dwelt in Egypt. And they sent and called him [to the country.]... And when all Israel heard that Jeroboam was come again [at their summons] they sent and called him unto the congregation," etc. And in favour of the omission of Jeroboam's name is the fact that the Hebrew text, both in ver. 3 and in ver. 12, betrays some little confusion. In ver. 3, the Cethib has וַיָּבֹאוּ and וַיָּבֹוּ in ver. 12, whereas the Keri has וַיָּבֹא in both cases. The words look, that is to say, as if a singular nominative had been subsequently introduced], and spake unto Rehoboam, saying.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
So they sent for
וַֽיִּשְׁלְחוּ֙ (way·yiš·lə·ḥū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 7971: To send away, for, out

[Jeroboam],
ל֔וֹ (lōw)
Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's Hebrew

and [he]
יָרָבְעָ֖ם (yā·rā·ḇə·‘ām)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3379: Jeroboam -- 'the people increase', the name of two Israelites kings

and the whole
וְכָל־ (wə·ḵāl)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

assembly
קְהַ֣ל (qə·hal)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 6951: Assembly, convocation, congregation

of Israel
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (yiś·rā·’êl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3478: Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc

came
וַיָּבֹ֥א (way·yā·ḇō)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 935: To come in, come, go in, go

to
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

Rehoboam
רְחַבְעָ֖ם (rə·ḥaḇ·‘ām)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7346: Rehoboam -- 'a people are enlarged', a king of Judah

and said,
וַֽיְדַבְּר֔וּ (way·ḏab·bə·rū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue


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OT History: 1 Kings 12:3 And they sent and called him that (1Ki iKi i Ki 1 Kg 1kg)
1 Kings 12:2
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