Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 12 - Verse 16

After ruling over the kingdom of Judah for 17 years, Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, passed away and was buried in the city of David. This verse marks the end of Rehoboam's reign and the beginning of his son, Abijah's, as the new king. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common biblical euphemism for death, indicating that Rehoboam joined his ancestors in the afterlife. The mention of being buried in the city of David highlights the importance of the lineage of King David in the history of Judah. As Abijah ascends to the throne, continuity in leadership is maintained within the royal family. This succession of power was a crucial aspect of ancient Hebrew culture, where dynastic rule was the norm. Through this verse, readers can understand the transfer of authority and the passing of the torch from one generation to the next in the kingdom of Judah.

The verse about Rehoboam's death and Abijah's reign serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and power within the context of ancient Israel. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common expression used in the Bible to signify the passing of a king and his burial among his ancestors. In this case, Rehoboam, the son of King Solomon, is laid to rest in the city of David, indicating his connection to the lineage of King David. The succession of Abijah as king highlights the continuation of the royal line and the establishment of a new ruler. The theological interpretation of this verse can be seen as a reflection of God's sovereignty over the nation of Israel, guiding the leadership transitions and fulfilling His divine purposes through the lineage of David. Additionally, word studies on terms like "slept with his fathers" and "reigned in his stead" can provide deeper insight into the cultural and historical significance of these phrases within the biblical narrative. Overall, this verse offers a glimpse into the political and spiritual dynamics of the ancient Israelite monarchy, illustrating the intricate interplay between human actions and divine providence.