1 Kings 12:5 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 12:5 mean?

1 Kings 12:5 describes how King Rehoboam tells the people to leave him for three days and then return so he can give them an answer. The people then go away as he instructed, waiting for his decision.

In this scene, Rehoboam has just become king after Solomon’s death, and the people of Israel have come to ask him to lighten the heavy workload his father had placed on them. Rehoboam’s response in this verse shows that he wants time to consider their request before making a decision, setting up the important choice he will make in the following verses.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 12:5

• "Depart" (יָלַךְ, yalak) is the same word used for "departed" at the end of the verse, emphasizing the action of leaving and returning. The repetition highlights the people's obedience and the pause before a significant decision.
• "Three" (שָׁלוֹשׁ, shalosh) and "days" (יֹום, yom) together specify a set period, showing that Rehoboam is not dismissing the people indefinitely but is taking a deliberate, short time to consider their request.
• "Again" (שׁוּב, shuv) means "to return" or "come back," making it clear that Rehoboam expects the people to come back for his answer, not just leave for good.

Why 1 Kings 12:5 matters

• This verse shows Rehoboam’s initial caution and willingness to consider the people’s request, rather than making a hasty decision.
• The three-day delay sets up the tension in the story, as the people’s future depends on the king’s answer, and it gives time for Rehoboam to seek advice.
• Understanding the specific words for "depart" and "return" highlights the respectful interaction between the king and the people at this crucial moment, before the relationship breaks down in later verses.