What is the meaning of 2 Kings 10:22?

And Jehu said to the keeper of the wardrobe

• Jehu, already anointed to eradicate Ahab’s line (2 Kings 9:6-10) and Baal worship (2 Kings 10:18-19), now turns to practical details.

• The “keeper of the wardrobe” was a trusted palace official (cf. 2 Kings 22:14 with Josiah’s servants), indicating that Jehu is using royal infrastructure for his God-given mission.

• Cross reference: Like Elijah who commissioned faithful servants to act (1 Kings 18:3-4), Jehu utilizes existing authority to honor the LORD’s purposes.

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“Bring out garments

• Special robes signified participation in Baal’s ritual (cf. Genesis 41:42; Esther 6:8-9, royal clothing marking status).

• By providing the outfits, Jehu ensures every Baal worshiper willingly identifies himself—an essential step for their later judgment (2 Kings 10:23-25).

• Cross reference: The parable of the wedding garment (Matthew 22:11-13) shows how clothing can expose true allegiance.

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for all the servants of Baal.”

• “All” underlines Jehu’s thoroughness; none are to escape (2 Kings 10:28).

• These “servants” once enjoyed royal patronage from Ahab and Jezebel (1 Kings 16:31-33), but now face the consequences foretold by God (1 Kings 21:21-24).

• Cross reference: God’s call for complete removal of idolatry is consistent (Deuteronomy 13:12-18).

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So he brought out garments for them.

• The keeper complies, showing how God can turn even neutral officials into instruments of judgment (Proverbs 21:1).

• The worshipers gladly receive the robes, oblivious to the trap—a sober reminder that sin often blinds its devotees (2 Thessalonians 2:11-12).

• Cross reference: As in Judges 7:22, God uses unexpected means to secure victory for His people.

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summary

Jehu’s command about garments is not a minor detail; it is a strategic move in God’s larger plan to purge Israel of Baal worship. By having the idolaters self-identify, Jehu ensures complete judgment and fulfills prophetic warnings. The episode underscores God’s sovereignty, the certainty of His word, and the folly of trusting in false gods rather than the LORD.