At the close of Solomon's reign it must surely have become evident to the people that the ominous prediction of Samuel (see I Sam. 8:18) concerning the dangers and limitations often inherent in human kingship had been all too accurate. It is true that monarchy had had every opportunity to prove its value. Even Saul, in spite of his self-will and his moody and vengeful character, possessed the potentialities of greatness. David and Solomon were undoubtedly great in many respects, but we are faced by a national record marred by discord and idolatry when Solomon passed away.
The united kingdom of Israel, established by David and raised by Solomon to the status of an empire, noted for its wide commercial enterprises and material wealth, now came to an abrupt end. It was replaced by two minor, separate kingdoms, Judah in the south and Israel—in the geographical sense of the term—in the northern part of Palestine.
On Solomon's passing, then, his son Rehoboam claimed the right to succeed him; but when the people agreed to serve him on one condition, that he would lighten "the grievous service" and "heavy yoke" his father had laid upon them, he spurned their request, making the arbitrary statement, "My father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions" (I Kings 12:4, 11), possibly referring to increased taxation.
