Jeroboam’s Golden Calves

Overview

• Testament: Old
• Book: 1 Kings
• Chapters: 1 Kings 12-13
• Summary: Jeroboam establishes rival shrines at Bethel and Dan, setting the northern kingdom on a lasting path of idolatry.

Details

Jeroboam fears losing political control if the people continue to worship in Jerusalem. His alternative priesthood and feast structure are politically shrewd but spiritually disastrous.

Key People Involved

• Jeroboam
• Ahijah the Shilonite

Key Places

• Bethel
• Dan
• Tirzah

Important Verses

“This thing became a sin: for the people went to worship before the one, even unto Dan.” - 1 Kings 12:30

Cross-References

• Division of the Kingdom
• Golden Calf
• 1 Kings