Background and Context:
Hazael was a high-ranking official and later king of Aram (Syria), who played a significant role in the history of Israel and Judah during the 9th century BC. His rise to power and subsequent actions were pivotal in the fulfillment of prophetic words spoken by the prophet Elisha. Ben-hadad, the king of Aram at the time, was a recurring adversary of Israel, often engaging in military conflicts with the northern kingdom.

Biblical Account:
The account of Hazael's deceptive message to Ben-hadad is found in 2 Kings 8:7-15. At this time, Ben-hadad was ill, and upon hearing that the prophet Elisha had come to Damascus, he sent Hazael to inquire of the prophet whether he would recover from his illness. Ben-hadad instructed Hazael to take a gift to Elisha and ask, "Will I recover from this illness?" (2 Kings 8:8).

Elisha's Prophecy:
When Hazael approached Elisha, the prophet delivered a message that was both direct and enigmatic. Elisha told Hazael, "Go and say to him, ‘You will surely recover.’ But the LORD has shown me that he will surely die" (2 Kings 8:10). This statement indicated that while the illness itself would not be fatal, Ben-hadad's death was imminent due to other circumstances.

Hazael's Deception and Ambition:
Elisha's prophecy deeply affected Hazael, who stood before the prophet until Elisha wept. When Hazael inquired about the reason for his tears, Elisha revealed the future atrocities Hazael would commit against Israel, saying, "I know the harm you will do to the Israelites. You will set fire to their fortresses, kill their young men with the sword, dash their little ones to pieces, and rip open their pregnant women" (2 Kings 8:12). Hazael feigned humility, questioning how he, a mere servant, could achieve such power. Elisha responded, "The LORD has shown me that you will become king over Aram" (2 Kings 8:13).

Upon returning to Ben-hadad, Hazael delivered a deceptive message, telling the king, "You will surely recover" (2 Kings 8:14). However, the following day, Hazael took matters into his own hands, suffocating Ben-hadad with a wet cloth and seizing the throne for himself (2 Kings 8:15).

Theological Implications:
Hazael's actions highlight themes of divine sovereignty and human agency. Elisha's prophecy underscores God's foreknowledge and control over the rise and fall of kings, as well as the unfolding of historical events. Hazael's ambition and deceit serve as a reminder of the corrupting influence of power and the moral decline that can accompany the pursuit of personal gain.

Historical and Prophetic Significance:
Hazael's reign marked a period of significant conflict with Israel, fulfilling Elisha's prophecy regarding the suffering he would inflict. His actions were instrumental in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the region, as he expanded Aram's influence and engaged in numerous battles with Israel. The narrative of Hazael's rise to power serves as a testament to the accuracy of prophetic revelation and the unfolding of God's purposes in history.