How Many Years Did the Kings of Israel Reign?
Quick Summary
The kings of the northern kingdom of Israel reigned for roughly 210 years, from the division of the monarchy after Solomon’s reign around 930 BCE to the fall of Samaria in 722 BCE. These 19 kings, ruling over ten tribes, often came to power through political violence and reigned during a time marked by idolatry, prophetic confrontation, and repeated calls to return to covenant faithfulness.
Divided Kingdom: A Timeline Overview
When Solomon died, the united kingdom of Israel split in two. Judah remained in the south under the Davidic line. Israel, the northern kingdom, began with Jeroboam, son of Nebat, who ruled over the ten northern tribes.
First king: Jeroboam I (reigned ~22 years)
Last king: Hoshea (reigned ~9 years)
Approximate span: 930 BCE to 722 BCE
Total number of kings: 19 kings, none from David’s line
These years are chronicled in 1 and 2 Kings, often with cross-references to the kings of Judah to help anchor the timelines.
Highlights of Notable Kings
Jeroboam I set up golden calves at Bethel and Dan, leading Israel into idolatry from the start (1 Kings 12).
Omri, though brief in coverage, was politically strong and established Samaria as the capital.
Ahab reigned 22 years and is infamous for his marriage to Jezebel and his conflict with the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 16–22).
Jehu was anointed by a prophet and reigned 28 years after violently overthrowing Ahab’s dynasty (2 Kings 9–10).
Hoshea ruled when Assyria invaded and deported the Israelites (2 Kings 17).
The lengths of reigns varied widely. Some kings ruled only months before being assassinated, while others, like Jeroboam II, brought brief periods of stability.
Kings and the Prophets
Many of the major prophets interacted with the kings of Israel. Elijah and Elisha confronted Ahab and his successors. Hosea and Amos prophesied during times of wealth and corruption, warning of coming judgment.
Despite warnings, the kingdom never returned to covenant faithfulness. The prophets called them back again and again, but the kings generally "did what was evil in the sight of the Lord."
Fall of the Northern Kingdom
In 722 BCE, during the reign of Hoshea, the Assyrians besieged Samaria. The city fell, and the people were exiled. After approximately 210 years, the kingdom of Israel ceased to exist as an independent nation.
The years of the kings, counted across nine dynasties and marked by repeated instability, serve as a sobering record of what happens when a people reject the voice of God.
Why It Matters
The reigns of the kings of Israel are more than ancient history. They are a testimony to divine patience and prophetic witness. For over two centuries, God raised up voices to speak truth. And for over two centuries, kings hardened their hearts.
Israel’s timeline reminds us that leadership matters. That character shapes legacy. And that faithfulness, or the lack of it, leaves a mark on history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many kings ruled the northern kingdom of Israel?
There were 19 kings who ruled over the northern kingdom of Israel between 930 BCE and 722 BCE. None of them were from the line of David, and several came to power by force or rebellion.
How long did the northern kingdom last?
The kingdom of Israel lasted for roughly 210 years, from the reign of Jeroboam I to the fall of Samaria under Hoshea.
Who was the worst king of Israel?
While “worst” is subjective, Ahab is often remembered as one of the most corrupt. His reign included widespread idolatry, injustice, and direct confrontation with the prophet Elijah.
Did any of the kings of Israel follow God faithfully?
According to the biblical record, none of the kings of the northern kingdom fully turned the people back to God. Most are described as doing evil in the sight of the Lord.
What happened to the kingdom of Israel?
The kingdom was conquered by Assyria in 722 BCE. Its people were exiled, and the territory was repopulated with other conquered peoples, leading to the region known later as Samaria.
