2 Chronicles 10:5 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 10:5 mean?

2 Chronicles 10:5 shows King Rehoboam telling the people of Israel to return to him after three days for his answer to their request, and the people then leave to wait. This verse highlights a pause in the conversation, as Rehoboam delays his decision about how he will rule.

Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, is speaking to the gathered Israelites who have come to ask him to lighten the heavy workload his father had placed on them. Instead of responding right away, Rehoboam asks for three days to consider their request, signaling that he wants time to think or consult others before making a ruling.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 10:5

• "said" (אָמַר, amar): This is a common Hebrew word for "to say" or "to speak." Here, it marks Rehoboam’s direct speech to the people, showing his authority in the conversation.
• "again" (שׁוּב, shuv): This word means "to return" or "to come back." Rehoboam is not just telling the people to leave, but specifically to come back to him after a set time, emphasizing that the discussion is not over.
• "three" (שָׁלוֹשׁ, shalosh) and "days" (יֹום, yom): These words together mean "three days," marking a specific period for the people to wait. In the ancient world, setting a time like this often meant the matter was important and required careful thought.
• "people" (עָם, am): This word refers to the gathered Israelites, showing that this was a public, national issue, not just a private conversation.
• "departed" (יָלַךְ, yalak): This verb means "to go" or "to leave." The people’s departure shows their willingness to wait for the king’s answer, respecting the process.

Why 2 Chronicles 10:5 matters

• This verse sets up the crucial decision Rehoboam will make, which leads to the division of the kingdom; understanding the pause helps explain the tension that follows.
• The three-day delay shows that Rehoboam is not acting impulsively, but it also opens the door for him to seek advice—both good and bad—which shapes the outcome.
• The verse highlights the formal, respectful relationship between the king and the people at this moment, before things break down in the following verses.