מלכים ב, פרק ג׳, פסוק ג׳

The religious policies of the kings of Israel were frequently driven by political anxiety, resulting in the ongoing practice of foreign worship. Commentators agree that the sins of Jeroboam refer specifically to the worship of the golden calves. The king maintained these established centers of worship, located in Dan and Bethel, following the exact pattern of the rulers who came before him.

His dedication to these practices stemmed from a deep fear for the stability of his throne. He worried that if the people went on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, their loyalty would shift back to the House of David. To prevent this and ensure his grip on the kingdom remained secure, he actively sustained the worship of the golden calves and refused to abandon this path.