2 Chronicles 11:23

And he dealt wisely. — Rehoboam showed his sagacity by providing each of his sons with an independent position and royal establishment in accordance with the notions of the time. In this way he secured their contentment and obviated quarrels for precedence, and intrigues against his destined successor. (Comp. Genesis 25:6; and 2 Chronicles 21:2.) As resident prefects of the fortresses of the kingdom the princes were usefully employed. Ewald compares Ps. 14:16.

The countries. — Districts, or territories.

He gave them victual in abundance. — No doubt by assigning to each a district which was bound to supply his wants, as was the manner of the later kings of Persia.

And he desired many wives. — And asked (for them) a multitude of wives. This is mentioned, along with the abundant maintenance, as proof of the princely state which he conferred on his sons, a numerous harem being one of the marks of royalty.