2 Kings 9
Meaning of 2 Kings 9
2 Kings Chapter 9 tells the story of the prophet Elisha’s instructions for one of the prophets to anoint Jehu, the commander of Israel’s army, as the new king of Israel. Elisha passes on God’s message that Jehu is tasked with wiping out the house of Ahab, in fulfillment of God’s earlier prophecy for the evils Ahab and his wife Jezebel committed, such as leading Israel into idol worship.
The prophet goes to Ramoth Gilead, where Jehu is, and anoints him in private, then promptly leaves. Jehu then tells his officers about his anointing, and they immediately pledge their loyalty by laying their garments at his feet to symbolize his kingship.
Once officially recognized as king, Jehu proceeds with his divine mission. He ruthlessly kills Joram, the current king of Israel and son of Ahab, as well as Ahaziah, the king of Judah, who was also from the line of Ahab.
Upon Jehu’s arrival in Jezreel, Jezebel puts on makeup and taunts him from a window. Jehu orders her servants to throw her out of the window. They comply, and Jezebel is killed.
The chapter ends with Jehu heading into the palace where he eats and drinks. He then remembers Jezebel’s body and orders his men to bury her, but they only find her skull, feet, and palms. This fulfills the prophecy of Elijah that Jezebel’s body would be eaten by dogs and her remains would be like dung on the field. Thus, Jehu begins a violent and thorough campaign to eradicate the house of Ahab.
So, 2 Kings 9 presents the rise to power of Jehu and the divine judgment against the house of Ahab for their wickedness in the sight of God.
2 Kings 9 kjv
2 Kings 9 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible is an account of two main events – the anointing of Jehu as king of Israel and the downfall of Ahab’s house.
In the first part of the chapter, Elisha the prophet sends one of the sons of the prophets to Ramoth-gilead with a box of oil to anoint Jehu, the commander of Israel’s army, as king. The prophet’s instruction is to proclaim God’s judgement on the house of Ahab because of the idolatry and evil led by Ahab and his wife, Jezebel. This also fulfills a prophecy given to Elijah that Ahab’s family line would be cut off.
Jehu’s anointing is done privately (verses 1-10). After being anointed, Jehu tells his officers about the prophet’s words and they immediately pledge their loyalty to him, blowing their trumpets and declaring, “Jehu is king!” (verses 11-13).
In the second part (verses 14-29), the narrative speaks about Jehu’s actions and dedication to fulfill what was prophesied. First, he conspires against and kills Joram, the king of Israel, who is also Ahab’s son. He then goes on to kill Ahaziah, king of Judah, who is related to Ahab’s family through marriage.
Throughout 2 Kings 9, the themes of God’s prophesy, judgement and fulfillment of his word are prominent.
2 Kings 9 nkjv
2 Kings 9 in the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible is about the prophet Elisha’s instructions to anoint Jehu as king over Israel.
At the start of the chapter, Elisha sends one of the prophets in training to Ramoth Gilead to anoint Jehu, the commander of Israel’s army, as king. The prophet is also instructed to provide a message that Jehu is to destroy the whole house of Ahab in retaliation for the slaying of the prophets of the Lord.
Then, Jehu is anointed as king in a secret ceremony. When Jehu returns to his fellow officers and they ask him why the prophet came, he initially tries to avoid their questions. But when they press him, he tells them he has been anointed king over Israel. The officers hastily use their garments to make an impromptu throne for Jehu, blow the trumpet, and declare, “Jehu is king!”
Jehu starts his reign with a coup d’etat, killing King Joram of Israel and Ahaziah, king of Judah, thus fulfilling the prophecy of the destruction of Ahab’s house.
He also targets Jezebel, the queen mother, who is executed by her own servants at Jehu’s command, her body then left to be eaten by dogs. This too fulfills a prophecy about the punishment for Jezebel’s acts of idolatry and persecution of God’s prophets.
In summary, 2 Kings 9 NKJV is about how Jehu became the new king of Israel and began to fulfill the prophecy about the end of Ahab’s dynasty.
2 Kings 9 niv
“2 Kings 9” in the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible details the events involving two specific kings, Joram (Jehoram) of Israel and Ahaziah of Judah.
The chapter begins with the prophet Elisha sending one of the company of prophets to Ramoth Gilead. This prophet was sent with a box of oil to anoint Jehu, son of Nimshi, as king over Israel. This was done in private; the young prophet anointed Jehu and then quickly left. Jehu was tasked with the mission to destroy the house of Ahab, fulfilling the Lord’s vengeance on Jezebel, the wife of Ahab, who enticed Israel to sin.
On Jehu’s agreement, he went out to serve his purpose, and when he met with Joram and Ahaziah, he struck Joram with an arrow, killing him. He then went after Ahaziah, who had fled, and fatally wounded him too. Furthermore, Jehu met Jezebel in Jezreel and had her thrown out of the window. She was trampled under the horses and was eaten by local dogs, leaving nothing but her skull, hands, and feet.
In “2 Kings 9” NIV, these events are illustrated in a straightforward narrative, making clear that Jehu’s actions were a direct fulfillment of the prophecy God had given to Elijah regarding the end of Ahab’s dynasty.
What is 2 Kings 9 all about?
2 Kings 9 is a chapter in the Bible, in the Old Testament, that narrates the anointing of Jehu as king of Israel in order to destroy the house of Ahab, the wicked king, in fulfillment of God’s prophecy.
The chapter begins with the prophet Elisha sending a younger prophet to Ramoth Gilead to anoint Jehu, the son of Jehoshaphat, as king. The prophet delivers the message that God has chosen Jehu to cut off the house of Ahab and avenge the blood of God’s servants who were killed by Jezebel, Ahab’s wife. Jehu then vows to carry out the Lord’s anointed task.
Jehu quickly arranges a coup. He rides to Jezreel, where Joram, king of Israel (Ahab’s son), is recovering from battle wounds. At this point, Jehu’s companions do not know why Jehu has been anointed king. Jehu kills Joram, and Ahaziah, king of Judah, who was with Joram at that time.
Jehu then moves on to Jezebel, who he orders to be thrown out of a window by her own servants. Jezebel is killed and her body is left to be eaten by dogs, just as Elijah had prophesied.
The chapter shows the fulfillment of divine prophecy against a corrupt and wicked royal family, and the brutal but divinely sanctioned rise of Jehu to the throne of Israel.
What does 2 Kings 9 teaches?
2 Kings Chapter 9 tells a story of regime change in the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, emphasizing God’s divine intervention and judgment. Elisha the prophet sends one of the sons of the prophets to anoint Jehu as the new king over Israel, fulfilling God’s command to Elijah. The anointing of Jehu is a major part of God’s plan to eliminate the house of Ahab for their idolatry and wickedness, thereby, removing the worship of Baal from Israel.
Upon his anointing, Jehu immediately sets out to overthrow Joram, the current king of Israel and son of Ahab. He also kills Ahaziah, the king of Judah, as he was allied with Joram and also part of Ahab’s family. Then, Jehu orchestrates the execution of Jezebel, Ahab’s queen, known for her evil and idolatrous ways.
Subsequently, Jehu destroys the temple of Baal and exterminates those who worship it. However, Jehu does not fully commit to the laws of God as he continues in the sins of Jeroboam.
This chapter teaches that God’s judgment is sure and His prophecies will be fulfilled. It illustrates the consequences of disobedience to God, especially for leaders who influence others in unrighteousness. It also demonstrates that God’s plans are executed perfectly, even amidst human imperfections, as seen in Jehu’s disobedience to God after fulfilling His commands.
A Sermon on 2 Kings 9
Certainly, I can provide a basic explanation of 2 Kings 9 and how it might be approached as a sermon. It’s important to note, though, that interpretations and emphasis can vary greatly depending on the religious perspective of the preacher and the congregation.
The focus of 2 Kings 9 in the Bible is on the anointing and actions of Jehu as the King of Israel. Here’s a broad overview:
Jehu, who serves as a commander, is anointed by a prophet as king over Israel by God’s command. This was to fulfill Ahijah’s prophecy that all of Ahab’s household would be destroyed for the introduction and support of Baal worship by his wife, Jezebel. After being anointed, Jehu swiftly sets out to destroy the house of Ahab, starting with King Jehoram and Ahaziah.
A key event is the killing of Jezebel, Ahab’s wife. Jezebel was known for her wickedness and her influence on Ahab, leading him, and therefore Israel, into idolatry. When Jezebel hears of Jehu’s approach, she doesn’t plead for mercy but rather mocks Jehu. Unyielding and unrepentant to the end, she is thrown from a window by her own servants and eaten by dogs, fulfilling Elijah’s prophecy.
A sermon on this chapter can be anchored on themes like:
1. Divine Judgement and Retribution: This chapter reveals God’s judgment upon the house of Ahab. The sermon could emphasize that ultimately, God doesn’t tolerate sin and will ensure justice prevails.
2. God’s Sovereignty: Despite all Jezebel and Ahab’s actions, God’s plan prevails. God is in control even when wickedness seems rampant.
3. Repentance: The end of Jezebel provides a cautionary tale about the inability to repent or recognize one’s faults. Here, the sermon could focus on the importance of repentance in the Christian faith.
4. Leadership: The role of a leader to guide and not to mislead. Ahab and Jezebel led Israel into idol worship. The sermon might stress the importance of leaders having a good relationship with God to lead the people rightly.
In essence, the preacher could bring out different aspects based on the direction they would like to give the sermon. This chapter provides plenty of thematic depth that can be explored.
Key people in 2 Kings 9
In 2 Kings 9, there are several key people who play significant roles in the narrative.
1. Jehu: Jehu is probably the most significant character in this chapter. He was anointed by Elisha’s servant as the king of Israel, as God had instructed. Jehu is told to slaughter the whole house of Ahab, the current king, who has led Israel to worship Baal.
2. Ahab: Ahab, although he is not directly present in the narrative, he casts a long shadow. His apostasy made it necessary for God to command Jehu to exterminate his royal line.
3. Jezebel: Jezebel is Ahab’s wife and a prominent character in these events, although she doesn’t directly appear in this chapter. She is well known for leading Ahab and Israel to worship false gods.
4. Joram (also called Jehoram): Joram, a son of Ahab, is the king of Israel at the beginning of 2 Kings 9. He had been wounded in battle and was recuperating in Jezreel when Jehu executed his coup. Jehu would kill him, thus bringing an end to the lineage of Ahab.
5. Elisha: Although not present in the chapter, Elijah’s successor, Elisha the prophet, is a prominent figure because he sends one of the prophets to anoint Jehu as king.
6. Ahaziah: Ahaziah is the king of Judah, who get caught up in Jehu’s rebellion and also get killed.
7. Servant of Elisha: He’s the one who actually does the anointing of Jehu, as Elisha’s representative.
These people all play a crucial role in the transition of power that occurs in 2 Kings 9.
Real world examples on 2 Kings 9
2 Kings 9 is a passage from the Bible that describes the anointing of Jehu as the king of Israel, his subsequent rebellion against his master, King Joram, and the overthrow of the house of Ahab. It also tells the story of the death of Jezebel.
1. Jehu’s appointment as a king by a prophet of God can be likened to real-world situations where someone is appointed to a position of authority due to divine inspiration or calling. This is commonly seen in religious organizations, where church leaders are often said to have been “called by God” to serve in their positions.
2. Jehu’s rebellion against his master, King Joram, could also be likened to political transitions witnessed in the real world. In some cases, a subordinate might rise against a leader due to dissatisfaction with his rule or a belief that they can do better. This can be seen in many historical events like military coups or revolutions.
3. The violent end of Ahab’s house, including the death of Jezebel, could be compared to the downfall of oppressive regimes in history. Throughout history, many ruling dynasties and dictatorships have suddenly collapsed due to internal decay, rebellion, or external invasion. Such a transformation is often followed by the harsh punishment or execution of the former leaders, as seen with the fate of Jezebel.
4. Jehu’s attempt to eradicate Baal worship in Israel can be compared to many real-world instances where a new leader or regime attempts religious reform, often in order to consolidate power or bring unity to a society. Historical examples include the Protestant Reformation and the imposition of state religions in various countries.
Remember, these are not exactly the same as 2 Kings 9 but are instances that help understand the events depicted.
Brief Explanation of 2 Kings 9
2 Kings 9 is a part of the books of the Bible that detail the history of the monarchies of Israel and Judah. This chapter focuses on the anointing of Jehu as king over Israel and the prophecy of the fall of the house of Ahab.
The prophet Elisha sends one of his students to anoint Jehu, a commander, as king of Israel, instructing him to flee as soon as he has done this. The young prophet reveals to Jehu that God has chosen him to punish the house of Ahab for its idolatry and evil deeds. Jehu’s officers, upon hearing the message, immediately declare their allegiance to him.
Jehu begins his reign by compulsively pursuing the death of every member of the house of Ahab, starting with Joram of Israel and Ahaziah of Judah. He then confronts Jezebel, Ahab’s widow, who is killed by her own servants at Jehu’s command. The chapter closes with the note that Jezebel’s death is a fulfillment of a prophecy uttered by Elijah.
Frequently asked questions for 2 Kings 9
1. Who is Jehu in 2 Kings 9?
Jehu was the son of Jehoshaphat, and the grandson of Nimshi. He was anointed by one of Elisha’s disciples to be the King of Israel. He was given a mission to destroy the house of Ahab.
2. What commission did Jehu receive in 2 Kings 9?
Jehu was given a commission by the God via one of Elisha’s disciples to strike down the house of Ahab. God promised Jehu that his descendants would occupy the throne of Israel to the fourth generation.
3. What happens to Jezebel in 2 Kings 9?
In 2 Kings 9, Jezebel meets her end. Jehu had her thrown out of the window, she was trampled by horses and her body was eaten by dogs, just as was prophesied.
4. Why was Jehu anointed in secret?
The anointing of Jehu was done in secret because of the volatile political situation in Israel. At that time, Ahab’s family was still in power, and they were known to be ruthless and violent. Therefore it was unsafe to publicly declare a new king.
5. What was the prophecy against Ahab’s family and how was it fulfilled?
The prophecy against Ahab’s family came from Elijah, declaring that Ahab’s household would be completely cut off because of their wickedness, and that the dogs would eat Jezebel. This prophecy was fulfilled in 2 Kings 9, when Jehu killed all of Ahab’s family and Jezebel was thrown off a wall, trampled by horses and her body eaten by dogs.
6. How is Jehu’s character shown in 2 Kings 9?
Jehu is portrayed as a zealous and harsh executor of God’s judgment on Ahab’s family. One key characteristic of Jehu shown in this chapter is his determination; once he was anointed as king, he didn’t delay in carrying out the task that God had given him.
Possible References for 2 Kings 9
2 Kings 9 is a chapter from the Bible’s Old Testament.
1. Anointing Jehu: The chapter begins with the prophet Elisha sending one of the prophets to Ramoth Gilead to privately anoint Jehu, the commander of the Israelite army, as the king of Israel. This happens as a part of God’s plan to punish the house of Ahab, as previously prophesied.
2. Jehu’s Oath of Allegiance: Jehu’s fellow officers, after hearing the news, immediately proclaim Jehu as their king. They blow trumpets and shout, “Jehu is king!”
3. Jehu Kills Joram and Ahaziah: Jehu immediately sets out to carry out his task. He heads to Jezreel, where Joram, the current king of Israel and Ahaziah, the king of Judah, are both recuperating from their injuries during the war with Aram. Jehu kills both with arrows, fulfilling the prophecy of punishing the house of Ahab.
4. Death of Jezebel: Jezebel, the queen mother, is also killed as per Jehu’s instructions. Her servants throw her out of a window, and her corpse is left on the street to be eaten by dogs, fulfilling the part of God’s message delivered by Elijah.
So, references to 2 Kings 9 usually refer to Jehu’s coup d’état, ordered by God, which led to his reign as king and the downfall of Ahab’s lineage. Matters of acting upon divine prophecies, the dynamics of power and political rebellion, fidelity to God’s word, and consequences of disobedience can also be discussed with references to this chapter.
Conclusion on 2 Kings 9
2 Kings Chapter 9 concludes with the death of Jezebel, the queen mother, who has been an influential and often negative figure throughout the books of Kings. Jezebel’s death was a fulfilment of the prophecy delivered by the prophet Elijah, who had predicted her gruesome demise.
This chapter has seen several dramatic developments, all driving toward the conclusion that God’s judgement is inevitable and inescapable. Initially, Jehu is anointed the king of Israel and is tasked with wiping out the house of Ahab as a judgement against their idolatry and wickedness. Jehu kills both King Joram of Israel (Jezebel’s son) and King Ahaziah of Judah, thereby asserting his rule and fulfilling part of God’s command.
In the final verses of this chapter, Jezebel tries to intimidate Jehu, but he orders her eunuchs to throw her from her window. Jezebel is killed, her body is left to be eaten by dogs, with only her skull, feet, and hands remaining.
The conclusion of 2 Kings 9 is ultimately about the fulfilment of prophecies and the punishment for disobedience to God. It serves as a moral and cautionary tale, reminding readers or listeners of the inevitable consequences of straying from God’s commandments. This chapter also sets up the narrative for Jehu’s reign and the continued history of the kings of Israel.