Topical Bible: Homicide: Felonious: Hazael

◄ Homicide: Felonious: Hazael ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Hazael, a significant figure in the Old Testament, is known for his rise to power as the king of Aram (Syria) and his subsequent acts of violence, including felonious homicide. His account is primarily found in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings, where he is depicted as a ruthless leader who fulfills the prophetic word of the Lord through acts of aggression and murder.

Background and Rise to Power

Hazael's ascent to the throne of Aram is marked by a prophetic encounter with the prophet Elisha. In 2 Kings 8:7-15, Hazael visits Elisha on behalf of Ben-hadad, the then-king of Aram, who is ill. Elisha prophesies that Ben-hadad will recover from his illness but will ultimately die. Elisha weeps, foreseeing the harm Hazael will inflict upon Israel. When Hazael inquires about the reason for Elisha's tears, the prophet reveals the atrocities Hazael will commit, including setting fire to Israel's fortresses, killing young men with the sword, dashing children to pieces, and ripping open pregnant women (2 Kings 8:12).

Despite Elisha's prophecy, Hazael returns to Ben-hadad and delivers a misleading report, stating that the king will recover. However, the following day, Hazael takes a cloth, soaks it in water, and suffocates Ben-hadad, thereby committing felonious homicide to seize the throne for himself (2 Kings 8:15).

Hazael's Reign and Acts of Violence

Once king, Hazael becomes a formidable adversary to Israel, fulfilling the violent acts Elisha had foreseen. His reign is characterized by military campaigns against Israel and Judah, often resulting in significant destruction and loss of life. In 2 Kings 10:32-33, Hazael oppresses Israel throughout the reign of Jehu, capturing territories east of the Jordan River, including Gilead and Bashan.

Hazael's aggression is further documented in 2 Kings 12:17-18, where he attacks Jerusalem during the reign of King Jehoash of Judah. To prevent the destruction of the city, Jehoash offers Hazael all the sacred objects dedicated by his predecessors, as well as his own treasures, as a bribe to withdraw.

Prophetic Fulfillment and Divine Judgment

Hazael's actions, while brutal, are seen within the biblical narrative as instruments of divine judgment against Israel for their idolatry and disobedience. The Lord's use of foreign powers to discipline His people is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, and Hazael's rise and reign are part of this divine orchestration.

Despite his role in God's plan, Hazael's methods are not condoned, and his acts of homicide are viewed as felonious. His account serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the lengths to which God will go to bring His people back to Himself.

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2 Kings 8:15
And it came to pass on the morrow, that he took a thick cloth, and dipped it in water, and spread it on his face, so that he died: and Hazael reigned in his stead.
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