King James Version

What Does 2 Chronicles 11:23 Mean?

“And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fenced city: and he gave them victual in abundance. And he desired many wives. many wives: Heb. a multitude of wives”

Context

21

And Rehoboam loved Maachah the daughter of Absalom above all his wives and his concubines: (for he took eighteen wives, and threescore concubines; and begat twenty and eight sons, and threescore daughters.)

22

And Rehoboam made Abijah the son of Maachah the chief, to be ruler among his brethren: for he thought to make him king.

23

And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fenced city: and he gave them victual in abundance. And he desired many wives. many wives: Heb. a multitude of wives

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(23) **And** **he** **dealt wisely.**—Rehoboam showed his sagacity by providing each of his sons with an independent position and royal establishment in accordance with the notions of the time. In this way he secured their contentment and obviated quarrels for precedence, and intrigues against his destined successor. (Comp. Genesis 25:6; and 2Chronicles 21:2-3.) As resident prefects of the fortresses of the kingdom the princes were usefully employed. Ewald compares Ps. 14:16. **The countries.**—*Districts,* or *territories.* **He gave them victual in abundance.**—No doubt by assigning to each a district which was bound to supply his wants, as was the manner of the later kings of Persia. **And** **he desired many wives.**—*And asked* (for them) *a multitude of wives.* This is mentioned, along with the abundant maintenance, as proof of the princely state which he conferred on his sons, a numerous harem being one of the marks of royalty. Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers Text Courtesy of BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission. Bible Hub

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Chronicles 11:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Chronicles 11:23

Genesis 25:6
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Luke 16:8
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2 Chronicles 10:8-15
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2 Chronicles 21:3
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1 Kings 1:5-6
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Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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