1 Kings Chapter 14 · Verse 1
At that time Abijah the son of Jeroboam fell sick.
Original Language Analysis
בָּעֵ֣ת
At that time
H6256
בָּעֵ֣ת
At that time
Strong's:
H6256
Word #:
1 of 6
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
הַהִ֔יא
H1931
הַהִ֔יא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
2 of 6
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
חָלָ֖ה
fell sick
H2470
חָלָ֖ה
fell sick
Strong's:
H2470
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, to be rubbed or worn; hence (figuratively) to stroke (in flattering), entreat
אֲבִיָּ֥ה
Abijah
H29
אֲבִיָּ֥ה
Abijah
Strong's:
H29
Word #:
4 of 6
abijah, the name of several israelite men and two israelitesses
Historical Context
First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. This period (c. 930-850 BCE) saw rapid succession and instability, especially in the northern kingdom.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this passage illustrate the importance of complete obedience to God's word without compromise?
- What does Elijah's ministry reveal about God's character and His commitment to His covenant people?
- How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?
Analysis & Commentary
At that time Abijah the son of Jeroboam fell sick.
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of jeroboam's judgment and rehoboam's reign, within the book's focus on spiritual decline of both kingdoms under various rulers.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.