And when all Israel saw that the king would not hearken unto them, the people answered the king, saying, What portion have we in David? and we have none inheritance in the son of Jesse: every man to your tents, O Israel: and now, David, see to thine own house. So all Israel went to their tents.

2 CHRONICLES 10:16KJV
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2 Chronicles 10:16 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 10:16 mean?

2 Chronicles 10:16 describes how the people of Israel rejected King Rehoboam’s rule after he refused to listen to their requests, declaring that they no longer had any share or inheritance with the house of David and returning to their own homes. This verse marks the moment when the northern tribes broke away from the Davidic dynasty, leading to the division of the kingdom.

The verse shows the people speaking directly to the king, expressing their frustration by saying they have no “portion” (share) in David or “inheritance” in the son of Jesse, meaning they no longer see themselves as part of his kingdom. The historical setting is the aftermath of King Solomon’s death, when his son Rehoboam’s harsh response to the people’s plea for lighter burdens led to a split: the ten northern tribes rebelled, leaving only Judah and Benjamin under David’s line.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 10:16

  • "Portion" (חֵלֶק, cheleq): This word means a share or part in something. Here, it highlights the people’s sense of being cut off from the benefits or identity tied to David’s house.
  • "Inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah): This term refers to a lasting possession or heritage. By saying they have no inheritance in the son of Jesse, the people are rejecting any ongoing claim or loyalty to Rehoboam’s rule.
  • "Tents" (אֹהֶל, ohel): This word literally means tents or dwellings. The phrase “every man to your tents” is a call for everyone to return to their own homes, signaling the end of unity under the king.

Why 2 Chronicles 10:16 matters

  • This verse explains the dramatic turning point when Israel split into two kingdoms, which shapes much of the rest of the Old Testament narrative.
  • The language of “portion” and “inheritance” shows that the break was not just political but also about identity and belonging.
  • Understanding this moment helps clarify why later prophets and writers refer back to the division and the longing for unity under a future king from David’s line.