1 Kings 12:5

Old Testament Historical ASV (1901)

What does 1 Kings 12:5 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “And he said unto them, Depart yet for three days, then come again to me. And the people departed.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

And he said unto them, Depart yet for three days, then come again to me. And the people departed.
1 Kings 12:5 — American Standard Version

Context — 1 Kings 12

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
5And he said unto them, Depart yet for three days, then come again to me. And the people departed.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“And he said unto them, depart yet for three days, then come again to me, etc.] Suggesting that he would consider of their proposal and inquire into the merits of it and as things should appear to him he would give them an answer in three days time; which at first sight may seem a point of prudence in him, to take time for deliberation and counsel in this affair, but in his case and circumstance it was very imprudent; for he might easily see there was discontent among the people, and a faction forming against him, and, by taking time to himself, he gave them time to take their measures, and hasten and ripen them for a revolt; for, by giving them such an answer, they might plainly perceive he…”
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Jamieson, Fausset & Brown
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown · Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“he said . . . Depart yet for three days--It was prudent to take the people's demand into calm and deliberate consideration. Whether, had the advice of the sage and experienced counsellors been followed, any good result would have followed, it is impossible to say. It would at least have removed all pretext for the separation. [See on Ch2 10:7.] But he preferred the counsel of his young companions (not in age, for they were all about forty-one, but inexperienced), who recommended prompt and decisive measures to quell the malcontents.”
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Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“12:5 three days: Rehoboam’s waiting period to consult his advisers is traditional; the third day was one of final decision (see 2 Kgs 20:4-8). Jesus rose from the grave on the third day (Luke 24:41; 1 Cor 15:4).”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification