Abijah, also called Abia and Abijam is the 2nd king to take the throne after the division of Israel. He is the son of Rehoboam, the grandson of Solomon, and the great-grandson of David. His mother is Maachah (also spelled Michaiah), who is the granddaughter of Absalom. Abijah only reigns for 3 years.

Abijah continues the war his father began with Jeroboam. Despite God's desire for Israel to be one nation, the rift between the two sides was not closing. When Abijah confronts Jeroboam, he points out the problems of idolatry within the northern territory. Unlike Rehoboam, Abijah relies on God to win this battle. 1 Kings 15 tells us Abijah (referred to as Abijam) had a very poor relationship with God, so this may have been a one time occurrence.

Jeroboam had come up with a great military strategy, which almost defeated Judah, however because God was on their side, Judah defeated Israel. Abijah expands the territory of Judah and Jeroboam grows weak.

Abijah marries 14 women and has 22 sons and 16 daughters. His son Asa inherits the throne.

Back to