Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, Jezebel is a figure whose name has transcended her historical context to embody a range of symbolic meanings, particularly in the realm of spiritual and moral discourse. The historical Jezebel was a Phoenician princess and the wife of King Ahab of Israel, known for her idolatry and persecution of the prophets of Yahweh. Her account is primarily found in 1 Kings and 2 Kings, where she is depicted as a manipulative and malevolent force, leading Israel into sin through the worship of Baal and Asherah.Symbol of Idolatry and Apostasy In a figurative sense, Jezebel represents the spirit of idolatry and apostasy. Her influence over Ahab and the nation of Israel serves as a cautionary tale against turning away from the worship of the one true God. In Revelation 2:20 , the church in Thyatira is admonished for tolerating "that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess." This reference is not to the historical Jezebel but to a symbolic figure representing false teaching and moral corruption within the church. The use of her name in this context underscores the severity of leading believers astray and the dangers of syncretism with pagan practices. Embodiment of Manipulation and Control Jezebel is also emblematic of manipulation and control, often used to describe individuals or systems that exert undue influence over others for selfish or destructive purposes. Her orchestration of Naboth's unjust execution to seize his vineyard (1 Kings 21) illustrates her willingness to use deceit and coercion to achieve her ends. Figuratively, a "Jezebel spirit" is said to operate through cunning and deceit, undermining authority and sowing discord within communities, particularly within the church. Representation of Immorality and Seduction The name Jezebel has further come to symbolize immorality and seduction. Her association with the worship of Baal and Asherah, which included ritualistic sexual immorality, positions her as a figure of moral degradation. In Revelation 2:21-22 , the symbolic Jezebel is given time to repent of her immorality, yet she refuses, leading to severe consequences. This portrayal serves as a warning against the seductive allure of sin and the importance of maintaining purity and faithfulness to God's commandments. Warning Against Compromise Jezebel's figurative representation serves as a warning against compromise with worldly values and the dilution of faith. Her account is a powerful reminder of the consequences of allowing secular and pagan influences to infiltrate the community of believers. The call to reject the "teachings of Jezebel" is a call to uphold doctrinal purity and resist the pressures to conform to societal norms that contradict biblical principles. In summary, the figure of Jezebel, both historical and symbolic, serves as a potent reminder of the perils of idolatry, manipulation, immorality, and compromise. Her legacy in the biblical narrative is a call to vigilance, purity, and steadfastness in the faith. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 2:20Notwithstanding I have a few things against you, because you suffer that woman Jezebel, which calls herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed to idols. Nave's Topical Index Library The Fifth vision "In Heaven" part vi. John the Baptist's Person and Preaching. On the Baptism of Christ. The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources Who was Athaliah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Ahaziah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Joash in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Jezebel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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