Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Chronicles 11:23

"And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his sons throughout all the lands of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fortified city: and he gave them victuals in abundance. And he sought [for them] many wives." — 2 Chronicles 11:23 (ASV)

And he dealt wisely. — Rehoboam showed his wisdom by providing each of his sons with an independent position and royal establishment in accordance with the customs of the time. In this way, he secured their contentment and prevented quarrels for precedence and intrigues against his destined successor. (Compare to Genesis 25:6 and 2 Chronicles 21:2–3.) As resident prefects of the kingdom's fortresses, the princes were usefully employed. Ewald compares this to Psalm 14:16.

The countries. — Districts, or territories.

He gave them victual in abundance. — No doubt by assigning to each a district that was bound to supply his needs, as was the custom 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 status he conferred on his sons, a numerous harem being one of the marks of royalty.