Osorkon I was the son and successor of Sheshonq I who died c. 924 B.C. He enjoyed a long and placid reign, marked by considerable political maneuvering around the office of High Priest of Amun in Thebes, a process which was to have long-lasting repercussions on the stability of the state.

Egypt was exceptionally rich during the reign of Osorkon, who endowed the temples with prodigal generosity. He built extensively. In his old age he appointed his son, the High Priest of Amun, Sheshonq II, as joint sovereign. Sheshonq died suddenly, however, and thus never reigned independently. When he died not long afterwards, Osorkon was succeeded by Takelot I.