# Jeroboam I

> First King of the Northern Kingdom of Israel (1 Kings 16)

**Wikidata**: [Q313219](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q313219)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeroboam)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/jeroboam

## Summary
Jeroboam I was the first king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, ruling from approximately 910 BCE until his death in 910 BCE. He is primarily known as a historical figure from the biblical account of Israel's division into two kingdoms after the reign of King Solomon. His reign marked the beginning of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which later fell to the Assyrians.

## Biography
- Born: Unknown
- Nationality: Israelite
- Education: Unknown
- Known for: Establishing the Northern Kingdom of Israel
- Employer(s): None (ruled as king)
- Field(s): Political leadership

## Contributions
Jeroboam I is credited with founding the Northern Kingdom of Israel after the death of King Solomon. His reign is documented in the biblical book of 1 Kings, where he is described as a governor who led a rebellion against King Rehoboam of Judah, resulting in the division of the united monarchy. His leadership shaped the political and religious landscape of ancient Israel.

## FAQs
**Who was Jeroboam I?**
Jeroboam I was the first king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, ruling during the 10th century BCE. He is significant for his role in the division of the united kingdom of Israel after the reign of King Solomon.

**What was Jeroboam I's role in history?**
Jeroboam I served as a governor who led a rebellion against King Rehoboam, leading to the establishment of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. His reign is documented in the biblical book of 1 Kings.

**Where is Jeroboam I mentioned in the Bible?**
Jeroboam I is mentioned in the biblical book of 1 Kings, where his rebellion against King Rehoboam is described. His reign marked the beginning of the Northern Kingdom of Israel.

## Why They Matter
Jeroboam I's reign was pivotal in the history of ancient Israel, as his leadership led to the division of the united kingdom into two separate kingdoms. His actions had lasting political and religious consequences, shaping the future of Israelite society. His story is preserved in the biblical tradition, making him a key figure in the study of ancient Near Eastern history.

## Notable For
- First king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel
- Leader of a rebellion against King Rehoboam
- Founder of the political and religious identity of the Northern Kingdom

## Body
### Early Life and Rebellion
Jeroboam I is first mentioned as a governor under King Solomon. After Solomon's death, he led a rebellion against King Rehoboam, resulting in the division of the united kingdom into the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah. This event is documented in the biblical book of 1 Kings.

### Reign and Legacy
Jeroboam I ruled as the first king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, establishing its political and religious institutions. His reign is marked by significant changes, including the establishment of religious practices that differed from those of Judah. His leadership had lasting impacts on the history of Israel.

### Historical Significance
Jeroboam I's story is preserved in the biblical tradition, making him a key figure in the study of ancient Near Eastern history. His reign is a critical period in the development of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which later fell to the Assyrians. His actions and legacy continue to be studied by historians and biblical scholars.

## References

1. Source
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. CERL Thesaurus