Hiel the Bethelite is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Kings. He is known for his role in the rebuilding of the ancient city of Jericho, an act that fulfilled a dire prophecy made centuries earlier. Hiel's account is a testament to the enduring nature of God's word and the consequences of defying divine decrees.

Biblical Account

The account of Hiel is found in 1 Kings 16:34: "In Ahab’s days, Hiel the Bethelite rebuilt Jericho. At the cost of Abiram his firstborn, he laid its foundation, and at the cost of Segub his youngest, he set up its gates, according to the word of the LORD spoken through Joshua son of Nun."

This passage highlights the fulfillment of a curse pronounced by Joshua after the original destruction of Jericho. Following the miraculous fall of Jericho's walls, Joshua declared, "Cursed before the LORD is the man who rises up and rebuilds this city, Jericho. At the cost of his firstborn he will lay its foundations; at the cost of his youngest he will set up its gates." (Joshua 6:26). Hiel's actions, therefore, serve as a direct fulfillment of this prophetic curse.

Historical and Theological Context

Jericho, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, held significant strategic and symbolic importance in ancient Israel. Its destruction by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership marked a pivotal moment in the conquest of Canaan. The curse pronounced by Joshua was intended to serve as a divine warning against the reestablishment of a city that had been devoted to destruction.

Hiel's decision to rebuild Jericho during the reign of King Ahab, a period marked by widespread idolatry and apostasy in Israel, reflects the spiritual decline of the nation. Ahab, influenced by his wife Jezebel, led Israel into the worship of Baal, further distancing the people from the covenantal laws given by God. Hiel's actions can be seen as emblematic of the broader disobedience and disregard for God's commands prevalent during this era.

Consequences and Legacy

The tragic fulfillment of Joshua's curse in the lives of Hiel's sons underscores the seriousness with which God regards His word. The loss of Abiram and Segub serves as a somber reminder of the cost of defying divine pronouncements. Hiel's account is a poignant illustration of the principle that God's word is unchanging and that His warnings are not to be taken lightly.

Hiel's rebuilding of Jericho is not merely a historical footnote but a theological lesson on the importance of obedience and reverence for God's commands. It serves as a cautionary tale for all generations, emphasizing the need to heed divine warnings and to live in accordance with God's revealed will.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide further details about Hiel's life beyond this account, his actions and their consequences are preserved in Scripture as a testament to the enduring truth of God's word. The account of Hiel the Bethelite remains a powerful reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the serious nature of divine prophecy.1 Kings 16:34
In his days did Hiel the Bethelite build Jericho: he laid the foundation thereof in Abiram his firstborn, and set up the gates thereof in his youngest son Segub, according to the word of the LORD, which he spoke by Joshua the son of Nun.
Nave's Topical Index

2419. Chiel -- probably "brother of God," a rebuilder of Jericho
... Word Origin probably from ach and el Definition probably "brother of God,"
a rebuilder of Jericho NASB Word Usage Hiel (1). Hiel. ...
/hebrew/2419.htm - 6kWhy did Joshua curse Jericho in Joshua 6:26? | GotQuestions.org

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