Zimri, a figure in the Old Testament, is most notably recognized for his brief reign as king of Israel and the felonious act of homicide that marked his ascent to power. His account is recounted in the First Book of Kings, specifically in 1 Kings 16:8-20.

Zimri served as a commander of half the chariots under King Elah, the son of Baasha, who reigned over Israel. In the twenty-seventh year of Asa, king of Judah, Zimri conspired against Elah. The opportunity for his treacherous act arose when Elah was in Tirzah, indulging in drunkenness at the house of Arza, the palace administrator. Seizing the moment, Zimri entered and struck down Elah, killing him and thereby committing an act of felonious homicide. This murder was not only a personal betrayal but also a violation of the divine commandment against murder, as stated in Exodus 20:13, "You shall not murder" .

Following the assassination, Zimri declared himself king. His reign, however, was short-lived, lasting only seven days. Upon hearing of Zimri's treachery, the Israelite army, which was besieging Gibbethon, proclaimed Omri, the commander of the army, as king. Omri and the Israelites then marched to Tirzah to confront Zimri.

Realizing the futility of his situation and the impending doom, Zimri retreated to the citadel of the royal palace. In a final act of desperation, he set the palace on fire around him, perishing in the flames. This act of self-destruction was a tragic end to his brief and violent rule, illustrating the biblical principle that those who live by the sword often die by the sword, as echoed in Matthew 26:52.

Zimri's account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of ambition driven by violence and treachery. His actions not only led to his own demise but also contributed to the ongoing instability and moral decline in the northern kingdom of Israel. The narrative of Zimri is a stark reminder of the destructive nature of sin and the divine justice that ultimately prevails.1 Kings 16:9-11
And his servant Zimri, captain of half his chariots, conspired against him, as he was in Tirzah, drinking himself drunk in the house of Arza steward of his house in Tirzah.
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