Ahijah the Shilonite was a prophet during the time of Israel’s kings. Though not as well-known as Elijah or Elisha, Ahijah played an important role in God’s plan for His people. He boldly spoke God's word, even when it meant trouble. Here are 10 interesting facts about Ahijah, with Bible verses to help you learn more about him.
1. Ahijah Was a Prophet from Shiloh
Ahijah was called “the Shilonite” because he came from Shiloh, a city known for worship and the presence of the Tabernacle.
“And the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite found him on the way…” — 1 Kings 11:29 (ESV)
2. He Prophesied the Division of the Kingdom
Ahijah is most famous for telling Jeroboam that God would divide Solomon’s kingdom, giving ten tribes to Jeroboam.
“Behold, I am about to tear the kingdom from the hand of Solomon and will give you ten tribes…” — 1 Kings 11:31 (ESV)
3. Ahijah Used a Torn Cloak as a Symbol
To deliver God’s message, Ahijah tore his own new cloak into twelve pieces. This acted as a visual sign of how the kingdom would be divided.
“So he took hold of the new garment that was on him and tore it into twelve pieces.” — 1 Kings 11:30 (ESV)
4. He Anointed Jeroboam as King
Though not in the typical way of pouring oil, Ahijah’s prophecy served as God's way of selecting Jeroboam to rule the northern tribes.
“Take for yourself ten pieces, for thus says the Lord…” — 1 Kings 11:31 (ESV)
5. Ahijah’s Prophecies Came True
Ahijah’s words were not just talk—they came to pass. Solomon’s kingdom did split after his death, just as Ahijah said.
“So Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day.” — 1 Kings 12:19 (ESV)
6. He Was Old and Blind Later in Life
Later in life, Ahijah became old and lost his sight. Even so, God still used him to deliver prophecy.
“Now Ahijah could not see, for his eyes were dim because of his age.” — 1 Kings 14:4 (ESV)
7. He Rebuked Jeroboam’s Sin
Ahijah didn’t hold back. He warned Jeroboam about the judgment to come because Jeroboam led Israel into idolatry.
“Because you have done evil above all who were before you… you have provoked me to anger…” — 1 Kings 14:9 (ESV)
8. He Predicted the Death of Jeroboam’s Son
When Jeroboam’s wife came in disguise to ask about their sick son, Ahijah saw through the act and foretold the child’s death.
“As soon as your feet enter the city, the child shall die.” — 1 Kings 14:12 (ESV)
9. Ahijah’s Message Brought National Judgment
Ahijah didn’t just give personal warnings. His words also brought a message of national judgment—God would cut off Jeroboam’s entire family.
“Therefore behold, I will bring harm upon the house of Jeroboam…” — 1 Kings 14:10 (ESV)
10. He Wrote a Record of Solomon’s Reign
Ahijah wasn’t just a prophet. He was also a writer. The Bible says he recorded parts of King Solomon’s life.
“Now the rest of the acts of Solomon… are they not written in the book of the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite…” — 2 Chronicles 9:29 (ESV)
Summary Table
| Fact # | What Happened | Bible Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ahijah was from Shiloh | 1 Kings 11:29 |
| 2 | He prophesied the kingdom’s split | 1 Kings 11:31 |
| 3 | He tore his cloak into 12 pieces | 1 Kings 11:30 |
| 4 | He anointed Jeroboam | 1 Kings 11:31 |
| 5 | His prophecy came true | 1 Kings 12:19 |
| 6 | He became blind in old age | 1 Kings 14:4 |
| 7 | He rebuked Jeroboam’s sin | 1 Kings 14:9 |
| 8 | He foretold the son’s death | 1 Kings 14:12 |
| 9 | He warned of national judgment | 1 Kings 14:10 |
| 10 | He wrote about Solomon’s reign | 2 Chronicles 9:29 |
