Definition: And it came to pass at that time when Jeroboam went out of Jerusalem, that the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite found him in the way; and he had clad himself with a new garment; and they two [were] alone in the field:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 11:29. It's a pretty interesting and slightly unsettling passage about a king and a prophet. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Jeroboam is leaving Jerusalem: The verse tells us that King Jeroboam, who was previously ruling in Jerusalem, has left the city. This is significant because it changes the political landscape. Ahijah finds him: A prophet named Ahijah, who lived in Shilon (a nearby town), comes across King Jeroboam while he’s traveling through the countryside. Jeroboam is dressed differently: The most striking part of the verse is that King Jeroboam has donned a new, more elaborate garment – it looks like a royal robe. What does this mean ? This is where it gets a bit complex and points to a significant shift in power and faith: A Symbol of Rebellion: The most widely accepted interpretation is that King Jeroboam was attempting to establish his own independent rule, challenging the authority of the King of Israel. He’s essentially trying to show his rebellion against God's established order. God's Perspective: The verse suggests a divine judgment or warning. It implies that Jeroboam’s actions were not just rebellious, but potentially disrespectful to God and a rejection of His will. In short, it describes a moment where King Jeroboam was flaunting his independence and attempting to defy God. Important Note: This is one of the most debated passages in biblical history. Different interpretations exist, and there’s ongoing discussion among scholars about its exact meaning. It's a story that highlights conflict, disobedience, and the potential consequences of challenging divine authority. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Explore why this event is significant in biblical history?