1. Rehoboam went to Shechem where everyone was waiting to crown him king.
2. Jeroboam son of Nebat heard what was happening, and he stayed in Egypt, where he had gone to hide from Solomon.
3. But the people from the northern tribes of Israel sent for him. Then together they went to Rehoboam and said,
4. “Your father Solomon forced us to work very hard. But if you make our work easier, we will serve you and do whatever you ask.”
5. “Give me three days to think about it,” Rehoboam replied, “then come back for my answer.” So the people left.
6. Rehoboam went to some leaders who had been his father's senior officials, and he asked them, “What should I tell these people?”
7. They answered, “If you want them to serve and obey you, then you should do what they ask today. Tell them you will make their work easier.”