Yeroboam

Yeroboam is a figure from the Hebrew Bible, specifically mentioned in the Books of Kings. He was the son of Nebat, an Ephrathite from Zereda, and a servant of Solomon, the king of Israel. Yeroboam is most notable for his role in the division of the United Kingdom of Israel into two separate kingdoms: Israel and Judah.

After Solomon's death, his son Rehoboam became king. Yeroboam, who had been appointed by Solomon to oversee the forced labor of the tribes of Joseph, was summoned by the people of these tribes to represent them before the new king. Rehoboam's harsh response to their grievances led to a rebellion, and the tribes of Israel (except Judah) proclaimed Yeroboam as their king.

Yeroboam established his capital in Shechem and later moved it to Tirzah. To prevent his subjects from returning to Jerusalem and the temple, he created two golden calves, one in Bethel and the other in Dan, and set up a rival priesthood. This act is often seen as a significant turning point in the religious history of Israel, as it led to the establishment of a separate religious system in the northern kingdom.

The Bible portrays Yeroboam's reign as marked by idolatry and sin, and it is recorded that a prophet named Ahijah prophesied the downfall of his dynasty. Despite this, Yeroboam reigned for 22 years. He died in battle against King Baasha of Judah, and his son Nadab succeeded him. The dynasty of Yeroboam ended four generations later when King Shallum assassinated King Zechariah, the last of Yeroboam's line.