And king Rehoboam took counsel with the old men that had stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, saying, What counsel give ye me to return answer to this people?
2 CHRONICLES 10:6KJVWhat does 2 Chronicles 10:6 mean?
2 Chronicles 10:6 describes how King Rehoboam asked the older advisors who had served his father Solomon for their advice on how he should respond to the people’s request. Rehoboam wanted to know what answer he should give to the people who had come to him with concerns.
In this scene, Rehoboam has just become king after Solomon’s death, and the people of Israel have approached him asking for relief from heavy burdens. The verse shows Rehoboam turning first to experienced counselors—men who had served under his father—for guidance. This sets up a contrast between the wisdom of age and experience and the advice Rehoboam will later seek from his younger peers.
The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 10:6
- "counsel" (יָעַץ, ya‘ats): This word means to advise or give guidance. The verse highlights that Rehoboam is actively seeking advice, not just making decisions on his own.
- "old" (זָקֵן, zaqen): This word refers to elders or older men, often respected for their wisdom and experience. The verse emphasizes that these were not just any advisors, but those who had served Solomon.
- "return" (שׁוּב, shuv): This word means to turn back or return. Here, it refers to giving a reply or answer back to the people, showing that Rehoboam is considering how to respond thoughtfully.
Why 2 Chronicles 10:6 matters
- This verse highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel, especially from those with experience and a proven track record.
- The verse sets up the tension in the story, as Rehoboam’s choice of whose advice to follow will have major consequences for the kingdom.
- By showing that Rehoboam first turned to his father’s advisors, the verse draws attention to the legacy of Solomon’s reign and the expectations placed on his successor.