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The Kingdom Divides: Israel and Judah — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging passage, 'The Kingdom Divides: Israel and Judah,' guides students through the dramatic split of ancient Israel into two kingdoms after King Solomon’s reign. The text explores the causes, events, and impacts of this division, focusing on figures like Rehoboam and Jeroboam, and connecting the story to archaeological evidence. Students will analyze change over time, cause-and-effect relationships, and the significance of this period in the context of the ancient Near East. Academic vocabulary is highlighted and explained. The resource includes a glossary, timeline, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, two graphic organizers, and a Spanish translation, making it accessible and rigorous for diverse learners. This history reading passage aligns with CA HSS 6.3 and CCSS RH.6-8.1, and features audio read-aloud support for all learners.

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"Israel i Judà" by Selfmade / Wikimedia Commons

The ancient kingdom of Israel split into two separate kingdoms, Israel and Judah, around 930 BCE after the death of King Solomon. This division shaped the political and religious history of the region for centuries. The causes of this split reveal how leadership, geography, and social tensions can transform a nation.

King Solomon, known for his wisdom and grand building projects, ruled a united Israel with its capital in Jerusalem. However, his policies burdened the people with heavy taxes and forced labor. After Solomon died, his son Rehoboam became king. According to the Hebrew Bible, representatives from the northern tribes asked Rehoboam to lighten their labor and taxes. Rehoboam refused, insisting on even harsher treatment. This decision angered the northern tribes, leading to a major revolt.

Jeroboam, a former official under Solomon, became the leader of the northern tribes. The ten northern tribes broke away and formed a new kingdom called Israel, with its capital at Shechem and later Samaria. The southern tribes, mainly Judah and Benjamin, remained loyal to Rehoboam and kept Jerusalem as their capital. Archaeological evidence, such as ancient city walls in Samaria and Jerusalem, supports the existence of these two distinct kingdoms. The division also created religious tensions. Jeroboam established new centers of worship at Bethel and Dan to keep his people from traveling to Jerusalem, which led to controversies over religious practices.

The split between Israel and Judah had long-lasting consequences. Both kingdoms faced threats from powerful neighbors, such as Egypt and Assyria. The Kingdom of Israel fell to the Assyrians in 722 BCE, and many Israelites were exiled. Judah survived longer, but it was eventually conquered by the Babylonians in 586 BCE. Despite these challenges, both kingdoms maintained unique cultural and religious identities. Primary sources like the Hebrew Bible, Assyrian records, and archaeological discoveries help historians piece together this complex period.

The division of Israel and Judah demonstrates how internal conflict and external pressures can reshape history. It shows the importance of leadership choices, social unity, and geography in the fate of civilizations. This story connects to broader themes of ancient history, such as the rise and fall of kingdoms, the role of religion, and the struggles of ordinary people.

Interesting Fact: The term "Ten Lost Tribes" refers to the Israelites from the northern kingdom who disappeared from history after the Assyrian conquest.

Who was king after Solomon?

RehoboamJeroboamDavidNebuchadnezzar

What city was the capital of Judah?

JerusalemSamariaBethelShechem

Who conquered the kingdom of Israel?

The AssyriansThe BabyloniansThe EgyptiansThe Persians

Why did the northern tribes rebel?

High taxes and harsh laborReligious freedomForeign invasionLack of land

What was a result of the split?

Two kingdoms formedPeace with neighborsA new religionA united monarchy

What did Jeroboam do for worship?

Built new worship centersDestroyed templesMoved capital to JerusalemBanned religious practices