Shechem was in the center of the northern tribes' land. It was a key site and religious center even before the Israelites occupied Canaan (Genesis 12:6–7; 33:18–20). It became significant in Israel as a Levitical city and a city of refuge (Joshua 20:7; 21:20; 24:1). Rehoboam knew he needed the northern tribes' approval and support to rule a united kingdom. Shechem later became the temporary capital of the northern kingdom (1 Kings 12:25).
Rehoboam ruled from 931 to 913 BC.