doctrine of the two houses of Israel

The doctrine of the two houses of Israel refers to the biblical division of the Israelites into two groups: the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and the Southern Kingdom (Judah). Historically, these kingdoms were separate after Solomon’s reign, with distinct kings and capitals. The doctrine often signifies a spiritual or prophetic idea that these two groups represent different facets of God's people—sometimes viewed as a prelude to divine reunion or reconciliation in the future. It emphasizes the importance of unity and God's ongoing plan for all Israel, both in their historical context and in prophetic or spiritual fulfillment.