Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Jezebel is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for her role as the wife of King Ahab of Israel. Her account is primarily found in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings. Jezebel is often remembered for her idolatry, manipulation, and opposition to the prophets of Yahweh, making her a symbol of immorality and false religion. Background and Marriage to Ahab: Jezebel was the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, and she married Ahab, the king of Israel. This marriage was politically advantageous, strengthening ties between Israel and Phoenicia. However, it also introduced the worship of Baal into Israel, as Jezebel was a devout follower of this Canaanite deity. The Bible records, "Ahab son of Omri did more evil in the sight of the LORD than all who were before him" (1 Kings 16:30), and Jezebel's influence played a significant role in this. Promotion of Baal Worship: Jezebel actively promoted the worship of Baal and Asherah in Israel, leading to the construction of altars and temples for these deities. She supported hundreds of prophets of Baal and Asherah, while seeking to eradicate the worship of Yahweh. Her actions led to a spiritual crisis in Israel, as the people were torn between the worship of Yahweh and the allure of Baal. Conflict with Elijah: One of the most notable aspects of Jezebel's account is her conflict with the prophet Elijah. Elijah, a staunch defender of Yahweh, confronted Ahab and Jezebel about their idolatry. This culminated in the dramatic showdown on Mount Carmel, where Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal to a contest to prove whose god was real. The LORD answered Elijah's prayer with fire from heaven, demonstrating His power and leading to the slaughter of the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:20-40). Despite this victory, Jezebel remained unrepentant and sought Elijah's life, forcing him to flee for his safety. Her relentless pursuit of Elijah underscores her determination to maintain her religious agenda. Naboth's Vineyard: Jezebel's manipulation and ruthlessness are further illustrated in the account of Naboth's vineyard. Ahab desired Naboth's vineyard, but Naboth refused to sell it, as it was his ancestral inheritance. Jezebel orchestrated a plot to falsely accuse Naboth of blasphemy, leading to his execution. With Naboth out of the way, Ahab took possession of the vineyard (1 Kings 21:1-16). This act of injustice drew a severe rebuke from Elijah, who prophesied the downfall of Ahab's dynasty and Jezebel's gruesome death. Death and Legacy: Jezebel's death is recorded in 2 Kings 9. Jehu, anointed by the prophet Elisha to be king, was tasked with eradicating the house of Ahab. As Jehu approached Jezreel, Jezebel adorned herself and looked out from a window. Jehu ordered her eunuchs to throw her down, and she was trampled underfoot. Dogs devoured her body, fulfilling Elijah's prophecy: "On the plot of ground at Jezreel, dogs will devour Jezebel’s flesh" (2 Kings 9:36). Jezebel's legacy is one of infamy. In the New Testament, her name is used symbolically in the book of Revelation to describe a false prophetess who leads others into immorality and idolatry (Revelation 2:20). Her life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of idolatry, manipulation, and defiance against God. Concordance Jez'ebel's (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 18:19 Thesaurus Jez'ebel's (1 Occurrence)Jez'ebel's. Jezebel's, Jez'ebel's. Jezelus . Multi-Version Concordance Jez'ebel's (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 18:19 Now therefore send ... /j/jez'ebel's.htm - 6k Jezebel's (5 Occurrences) Jezelus Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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