(11) And he fortified.--Literally, strengthened, i.e., put them in an efficient condition for defence, by providing commandants and stores of arms and food.

The strong holds.--Mets-roth; the word in last verse.

Captains.--Negidim; leaders, princes (1Chronicles 9:11). Here it means commandants.

11:1-12 A few good words might have prevented the rebellion of Rehoboam's subjects; but all the force of his kingdom cannot bring them back. And it is in vain to contend with the purpose of God, when it is made known to us. Even those who are destitute of true faith, will at times pay some regard to the word of God, and be kept by it from wrong actions, to which they are prone by nature.And he fortified the strong holds,.... Of these and other cities:

and put captains in them; garrisons of soldiers, with captains over them to defend them:

and store of victual, and of oil and wine; that they might be able to hold out a siege, should they be attacked.