2 Chronicles 13:7 Meaning and Explanation
“And there are gathered unto him vain men, the children of Belial, and have strengthened themselves against Rehoboam the son of Solomon, when Rehoboam was young and tenderhearted, and could not withstand them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jeroboam gathered worthless men who took advantage of young, gentle Rehoboam's weakness.
The Context of 2 Chronicles 13:7
Worthless followers helped Jeroboam rebel against the young, gentle Rehoboam.
What Does 2 Chronicles 13:7 Mean?
Abijah describes Jeroboam's supporters using strong language: vain men and children of Belial (meaning worthless or wicked people). This rhetorical move dismisses the legitimacy of those who followed Jeroboam. The implication is that followers of Jeroboam were not principled supporters but opportunistic individuals exploiting circumstances.
Rehoboam, Solomon's son and Abijah's father, is portrayed as young and tenderhearted—virtues in a spiritual sense but weaknesses in wielding power. The text explains how Jeroboam's rebellion succeeded: not through righteous cause but through the youth and gentleness of the king he opposed, combined with the aggressive support of men he characterizes as worthless.
2 Chronicles 13:7 in the Original Language
benei Beliya'al (בְנֵי־בְלִיַּעַל), 'children of Belial' — a phrase meaning worthless or wicked people, used throughout Hebrew scripture to denote those who act against God's order.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 13:7
What does 2 Chronicles 13:7 mean?
Jeroboam gathered worthless men who took advantage of young, gentle Rehoboam's weakness.
What is the context of 2 Chronicles 13:7?
Worthless followers helped Jeroboam rebel against the young, gentle Rehoboam.