מלכים א, פרק י״ב, פסוק ב׳

The transition of power following the death of King Solomon finds Jeroboam, the man destined to lead a national division, far removed from the center of events. When news of his rival's passing finally reaches him, Jeroboam is still living in a state of political exile in Egypt [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Despite the dramatic shift in leadership, he does not rush back to his homeland on his own initiative [מצודת דוד].

His hesitation stems from deep political uncertainty. Unsure of the public's true intentions, Jeroboam suspects that the masses are simply gathering to crown Solomon's son, Rehoboam, and solidify the new administration. Given this risk, he prefers to wait safely in Egypt [מלבי״ם].

This cautious approach clarifies the broader timeline of events and explains why other historical accounts mention his active return. The rebellion unfolds in distinct stages. Initially, upon hearing of Solomon's death, Jeroboam remains firmly in Egypt. It is only later, when the people actively send for him and reveal their rebellious plans, that his strategy changes. Seeing that the nation is gathering with the clear intent to challenge the current rule, he finally leaves Egypt to join them, ready to be crowned as their new king [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל].