Why did Jeroboam's wife disguise herself according to 1 Kings 14:4? Setting the Scene • Jeroboam’s reign began with divine endorsement (1 Kings 11:29–38), yet he quickly turned to idolatry (1 Kings 12:28–33). • When his son Abijah fell ill, Jeroboam sought a word from Ahijah, the prophet who had first announced his kingship (1 Kings 14:1–3). • “Jeroboam’s wife did so. She went to Shiloh and arrived at the house of Ahijah. Now Ahijah could not see, for his eyes were dim because of his age.” (1 Kings 14:4) Reasons Behind the Disguise • Avoiding recognition by people on the journey – A royal procession would draw attention; a simple traveler could slip past curious eyes. – Jeroboam feared political fallout if the northern king was seen consulting a prophet in Judah’s territory. • Attempting to manipulate the prophet – Jeroboam reasoned that if Ahijah did not know whose inquiry it was, perhaps he would issue a kinder prophecy. – The gifts in her hand (1 Kings 14:3) fit the disguise of a humble petitioner rather than a queen. • Concealing guilt and rebellion – Jeroboam had led Israel into idolatry; he knew his deeds were indefensible before the prophet who once spoke God’s promise (contrast 1 Kings 12:30–31 with 1 Kings 14:2). – Disguise was an effort to hide sin rather than repent of it, echoing the pattern in Genesis 3:8–10. • Ignoring God’s omniscience – “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.” (Hebrews 4:13) – Ahijah, though physically blind, was spiritually informed beforehand (1 Kings 14:5). The disguise fooled no one in heaven. Key Takeaways • Human schemes cannot outwit the Lord (Proverbs 21:30). • Disguise is a symptom of unconfessed sin; repentance, not concealment, brings mercy (Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9). • External appearances may deceive people, but God’s Word penetrates every mask (Psalm 139:1–4). Spiritual Lessons for Today • When conviction grips the heart, choose transparency with God rather than subterfuge. • Seek prophetic counsel with humility and honesty, trusting that God’s truth, even when painful, is ultimately redemptive. • Remember that God’s servants, empowered by His Spirit, discern beyond physical sight; integrity is always the safer path. |
    |