Imla is a biblical figure known primarily as the father of the prophet Michaiah (also spelled Micaiah), who is mentioned in the context of the divided monarchy of Israel and Judah. The name "Imla" appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the narrative concerning the kings of Israel and Judah.

Biblical References:

Imla is mentioned in the context of a significant prophetic encounter during the reign of King Ahab of Israel. The primary reference to Imla is found in 1 Kings 22 and 2 Chronicles 18, where his son, Michaiah, plays a crucial role.

1. 1 Kings 22:8-9 : "The king of Israel answered, 'There is still one man who can inquire of the LORD, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad. He is Micaiah son of Imla.' 'The king should not say that,' Jehoshaphat replied. So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, 'Bring Micaiah son of Imla at once.'"

2. 2 Chronicles 18:7-8 : "The king of Israel answered, 'There is still one man through whom we can inquire of the LORD, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad. He is Micaiah son of Imla.' 'The king should not say that,' Jehoshaphat replied. So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, 'Bring Micaiah son of Imla at once.'"

Historical and Theological Context:

Imla's significance in the biblical narrative is primarily through his son, Michaiah, who is recognized as a true prophet of the LORD. During the time of King Ahab, the northern kingdom of Israel was often led astray by false prophets who sought to please the king rather than speak the truth of God. In contrast, Michaiah, the son of Imla, is depicted as a prophet who faithfully delivers God's message, regardless of its popularity or the personal risk involved.

The account of Michaiah's prophecy is set against the backdrop of a proposed military alliance between Ahab, king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, to retake the city of Ramoth-gilead from the Arameans. Despite the favorable prophecies of Ahab's court prophets, Jehoshaphat insists on consulting a prophet of the LORD, leading to the summoning of Michaiah, son of Imla.

Significance:

The mention of Imla, though brief, highlights the importance of lineage and the role of family in the prophetic tradition of Israel. Michaiah's steadfastness in delivering God's message, despite opposition, reflects the biblical theme of the true prophet's commitment to divine truth over human approval. This narrative underscores the tension between true and false prophecy, a recurring theme in the Old Testament, and serves as a reminder of the courage required to speak God's truth in the face of adversity.

Imla's legacy, through his son Michaiah, is a testament to the enduring impact of faithful prophecy and the importance of seeking God's will above all else.2 Chronicles 18:7,8
And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man, by whom we may inquire of the LORD: but I hate him; for he never prophesied good to me, but always evil: the same is Micaiah the son of Imla. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so.
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