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In the biblical narrative, the account of Jeroboam's wife disguising herself to deceive the prophet Ahijah is a poignant example of falsehood and deception. This event is recorded in
1 Kings 14:1-18, where Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, instructs his wife to disguise herself and visit the prophet Ahijah in Shiloh. Jeroboam's son, Abijah, had fallen ill, and the king sought a prophetic word regarding the child's fate.
Jeroboam's wife complied with her husband's request, donning a disguise to conceal her identity. The purpose of this deception was to obtain a favorable prophecy from Ahijah, who had previously foretold Jeroboam's rise to power. The king's actions reflect a lack of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, as he resorted to deceit rather than seeking the Lord's guidance with sincerity and humility.
Despite her efforts to conceal her identity, the prophet Ahijah, though physically blind due to old age, was spiritually perceptive. The Lord had revealed to him the true identity of his visitor. As she approached, Ahijah addressed her directly, saying, "Come in, wife of Jeroboam. Why are you pretending to be someone else?" (
1 Kings 14:6). This divine revelation underscores the futility of human deception before God, who sees and knows all.
Ahijah delivered a grave message to Jeroboam's wife, pronouncing judgment upon Jeroboam's house due to the king's idolatry and disobedience. The prophet declared that the child would die as soon as she returned home, and that Jeroboam's dynasty would ultimately be cut off. This prophecy was fulfilled, demonstrating the seriousness with which God regards falsehood and the consequences of leading His people astray.
The account of Jeroboam's wife serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deceit and the importance of integrity. It highlights the principle that God cannot be deceived and that attempts to manipulate or circumvent His will are ultimately futile. This narrative also illustrates the broader biblical theme that truth and righteousness are foundational to a life that honors God, while falsehood leads to judgment and destruction.
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1 Kings 14:5-7And the LORD said to Ahijah, Behold, the wife of Jeroboam comes to ask a thing of you for her son; for he is sick: thus and thus shall you say to her: for it shall be, when she comes in, that she shall feign herself to be another woman.
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Resources
What is the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy? | GotQuestions.orgShould we allow false teachers into our home? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible mean when it says not to touch God's anointed? | GotQuestions.orgFalsehood: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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