Hazael, a significant figure in the history of the ancient Near East, was the king of Aram-Damascus who reigned during the 9th century BC. His rise to power and subsequent reign are documented in the biblical narrative, particularly in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings. Hazael's death marks the end of a tumultuous and impactful period in the history of Israel and its neighboring nations.

Biblical Background

Hazael's ascent to the throne was foretold by the prophet Elisha. In 2 Kings 8:13, Hazael, then a servant of King Ben-Hadad II of Aram, visited Elisha to inquire about the king's illness. Elisha wept upon seeing Hazael, foreseeing the harm he would bring to Israel. When Hazael questioned Elisha about his reaction, the prophet revealed that Hazael would become king and cause great destruction: "The LORD has shown me that you will become king over Aram" (2 Kings 8:13).

Hazael's reign was marked by military campaigns and conflicts with Israel. He was a formidable adversary, capturing territories and exerting pressure on the Israelite kingdom. His aggressive expansion is noted in 2 Kings 10:32-33, where it is recorded that he defeated Israelite forces and seized lands east of the Jordan River.

Death and Succession

The biblical account of Hazael's death is brief but significant. In 2 Kings 13:24, it is stated, "When Hazael king of Aram died, his son Ben-Hadad became king in his place" . This transition of power indicates the continuation of the Aramean dynasty and the ongoing hostilities between Aram and Israel.

Hazael's death did not immediately alleviate the pressure on Israel. His son, Ben-Hadad III, continued to engage in conflicts with the Israelite kingdom. However, the biblical narrative suggests that the LORD's intervention eventually provided relief to Israel. In 2 Kings 13:25, it is noted that Jehoash, the king of Israel, was able to recover cities from Ben-Hadad that had been taken by Hazael.

Historical and Theological Significance

Hazael's reign and subsequent death hold considerable historical and theological significance. Historically, Hazael is recognized as a powerful ruler who expanded Aramean influence and posed a significant threat to Israel. His military campaigns are corroborated by external sources, such as the Tel Dan Stele, which provides archaeological evidence of his victories.

Theologically, Hazael's account illustrates the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations. Despite Hazael's ambitions and successes, the biblical narrative emphasizes that his rise to power was part of God's divine plan, as revealed through the prophet Elisha. The eventual relief granted to Israel after Hazael's death underscores the theme of divine intervention and deliverance.

Hazael's death marks a pivotal moment in the biblical history of Israel and its neighbors, reflecting the complex interplay of human ambition and divine providence. His legacy, as recorded in the Scriptures, serves as a testament to the enduring impact of his reign and the unfolding of God's purposes in the ancient world.