Definition: But [as for] the children of Israel which dwelt in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 12:17. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic statement about the kingship of King Rehoboam. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse says that after Rehoboam, the king of Judah (a specific region within Israel) – Rehoboam – ruled over the people who lived in the cities of Judah. Let’s unpack that a little further: “But [as for]…” : This is a way of softening the statement and acknowledging a previous situation. It's like saying, "This applies to this group of people..." “…the children of Israel…” : "Children of Israel" refers to the Israelites – the people who were living in the cities of Judah at the time. "...which dwelt in the cities of Judah..." : This tells us exactly where these Israelites lived - in the cities located in the region of Judah. So, what does this tell us about Rehoboam? Rehoboam was a king who made a bad decision – he chose to rule with his brothers instead of listening to the people. This led to a split within the Israelite kingdom. This verse basically says that after Rehoboam’s reign, the people of Judah were ruled by someone else - and that person was not the king they had chosen. In short: It's a story about a king who made a mistake and his descendants were governed by another ruler. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant? Connect it to a specific event or historical period?