The death of Jezebel is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 2 Kings. Jezebel, the wife of King Ahab of Israel, is one of the most infamous figures in the Bible, known for her idolatry, manipulation, and persecution of the prophets of Yahweh. Her death marks the fulfillment of divine prophecy and serves as a powerful demonstration of God's justice.

Background

Jezebel was a Phoenician princess, the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians. She married Ahab, the king of Israel, and led him to worship Baal, a Canaanite deity, thus introducing and promoting idolatry in Israel. Her influence over Ahab and her active role in promoting Baal worship led to widespread apostasy among the Israelites. Jezebel is also notorious for her persecution of the prophets of Yahweh, most notably orchestrating the murder of Naboth to seize his vineyard for Ahab (1 Kings 21).

Prophecy Against Jezebel

The prophet Elijah, a central figure in opposing Jezebel's idolatry, pronounced God's judgment against her. In 1 Kings 21:23, Elijah declared, "And as for Jezebel, the LORD says: ‘The dogs will devour Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel.’" This prophecy foretold her violent death and the desecration of her body, symbolizing divine retribution for her sins.

The Event of Her Death

Jezebel's death is recorded in 2 Kings 9. After the death of Ahab, their son Joram (also known as Jehoram) became king. However, God anointed Jehu, a commander in Israel's army, to destroy the house of Ahab and execute judgment on Jezebel. Jehu's rise to power was marked by a swift and violent campaign against the royal family.

In 2 Kings 9:30-37, Jezebel's final moments are described. As Jehu entered Jezreel, Jezebel adorned herself and looked out of a window, attempting to maintain her regal dignity. Jehu, unfazed by her presence, commanded her eunuchs to throw her down from the window. They complied, and Jezebel was thrown to her death. The text states, "Her blood spattered on the wall and on the horses, and Jehu trampled her underfoot" (2 Kings 9:33).

Following her death, Jehu ordered that she be buried, recognizing her as a king's daughter. However, when they went to bury her, they found only her skull, feet, and hands, as dogs had devoured the rest of her body. This gruesome end fulfilled Elijah's prophecy, as recorded in 2 Kings 9:36-37: "This is the word of the LORD that He spoke through His servant Elijah the Tishbite: ‘In the plot of ground at Jezreel the dogs will devour the flesh of Jezebel. Jezebel’s body will be like dung on the face of the field in the plot of Jezreel, so that no one can say: This is Jezebel.’"

Theological Significance

Jezebel's death serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of idolatry and rebellion against God. Her life and demise illustrate the seriousness with which God regards the purity of worship and the leadership of His people. The fulfillment of prophecy in her death underscores the sovereignty of God and His ability to bring about justice in His timing. Jezebel's account is often cited as a warning against the seduction of false religions and the moral decay that can result from turning away from God's commandments.