Rehoboam Fortifies the Cities of Judah

When Jeroboam's rebellion tears the northern tribes away, Rehoboam settles in Jerusalem and fortifies a defensive ring of cities throughout Judah and Benjamin — Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa, Beth-zur, Soco, Adullam, Gath, Mareshah, Ziph, Adoraim, Lachish, Azekah, Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron. He stockpiles each one with commanders, food, oil, wine, shields, and spears. The priests and Levites from across the divided kingdom defect south to join him, since Jeroboam has installed his own non-Levitical priesthood to serve the golden calves at Bethel and Dan.

Read It