Bible Figure
Ahijah the Shilonite
biblical prophet in the Old Testament (First Book of Kings)
Ahijah the Shilonite was a prophet who announced that Jeroboam would receive ten tribes from Solomon's kingdom and later pronounced judgment on Jeroboam's dynasty.
Biography
Ahijah met Jeroboam while wearing a new cloak, tore it into twelve pieces, and told Jeroboam to take ten as a sign that God would tear most of the kingdom from Solomon's house because of idolatry. The Davidic house would retain a portion because of God's covenant purposes. Years later, when Jeroboam's son became ill, Jeroboam sent his wife to Ahijah in disguise. Though the aged prophet could no longer see, God revealed her identity and message. Ahijah condemned Jeroboam's idolatry and announced destruction of his house; the child died as she returned home.
Biblical Significance
Ahijah's ministry provides prophetic interpretation for the division of the monarchy and makes clear that Jeroboam's rise did not exempt him from covenant obedience. The same prophet who announced his elevation later announced his dynasty's judgment.