John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 5. And Rehoboam dwelt in Jerusalem , etc.] The metropolis of Judah, and the capital city of his kingdom: and built cities for defence in Judah ; that is, rebuilt, enlarged, and fortified them; for otherwise they were built before, though neglected before the revolt of the ten tribes; but now it became necessary to make them more capacious and strong, to protect his people, and defend himself against Israel; for though he was forbid to act offensively, and therefore contented himself to abide in Jerusalem, and not go forth to war; yet he might lawfully put himself into a condition of defence.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-12 - A few good words might have prevented the rebellion of Rehoboam' subjects; but all the force of his kingdom cannot bring them back. An it is in vain to contend with the purpose of God, when it is made know to us. Even those who are destitute of true faith, will at times pa some regard to the word of God, and be kept by it from wrong actions to which they are prone by nature.
Original Hebrew וישׁב3427 רחבעם7346 בירושׁלם3389 ויבן1129 ערים5892 למצור4692 ביהודה׃3063
