Hiel, a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, is primarily known for his role in the fulfillment of a curse pronounced by Joshua, the leader of Israel who succeeded Moses. Hiel's account is a testament to the enduring nature of divine pronouncements and the consequences of defying them.

Biblical Account

Hiel the Bethelite is mentioned 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 verse highlights the tragic fulfillment of a curse that Joshua had pronounced centuries earlier.

The Curse of Joshua

The background to Hiel's account is found in the Book of Joshua. After the miraculous fall of Jericho, Joshua declared a curse upon anyone who would rebuild the city. Joshua 6:26 states: "At that time Joshua pronounced this solemn oath: 'Cursed before the LORD is the man who undertakes to rebuild 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.'" This curse was a divine warning against the restoration of a city that had been devoted to destruction as part of God's judgment.

Historical Context

Hiel's actions took place during the reign of King Ahab, a period marked by widespread idolatry and apostasy in Israel. Ahab, influenced by his wife Jezebel, led the nation into the worship of Baal, further distancing the people from the covenantal laws given by God. It was in this context of spiritual decline that Hiel undertook the rebuilding of Jericho, seemingly disregarding the divine curse.

Theological Implications

Hiel's account serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness with which God's words are to be taken. The fulfillment of Joshua's curse in Hiel's life underscores the belief in the inerrancy and immutability of divine pronouncements. It illustrates the principle that God's warnings, though they may seem distant or forgotten, remain in effect and will come to pass in their appointed time.

Moral and Spiritual Lessons

From a moral and spiritual perspective, Hiel's experience is a cautionary tale about the consequences of ignoring God's commands. It highlights the importance of obedience and reverence for God's word. The loss of Hiel's sons, Abiram and Segub, as a direct result of his actions, serves as a poignant example of the personal and familial cost of defying divine decrees.

Legacy

Hiel's legacy is one of warning rather than commendation. His account is preserved in Scripture as a testament to the enduring power of God's word and the inevitable fulfillment of His promises and warnings. It calls believers to a life of obedience, faithfulness, and respect for the divine will as revealed in the Scriptures.Joshua 6:26
And Joshua adjured them at that time, saying, Cursed be the man before the LORD, that rises up and builds this city Jericho: he shall lay the foundation thereof in his firstborn, and in his youngest son shall he set up the gates of it.
Nave's Topical Index

Letter cviii. To Eustochium.
... also the words of Jacob were fulfilled concerning Him ... Jericho she saw the city which
Hiel founded in ... to King Nebuchadnezzar in which he admonished him to redeem ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cviii to eustochium.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... Shadadu, the Prince of Sukhi, trusting in his Cossoans, offered him battle; but ... since
the death of Ammibaal; Izalla and Bit-Bakhiani had fulfilled their duties ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

Why did Joshua curse Jericho in Joshua 6:26? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of Jericho in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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