Topical Encyclopedia Jezreel, a significant city within the territory of the tribe of Issachar, holds a prominent place in biblical history and narrative. The name "Jezreel" means "God sows," reflecting the fertile nature of the region. This city is strategically located in the Jezreel Valley, a broad and fertile plain that has been a crossroads for trade and military campaigns throughout history.Historical and Biblical Significance Jezreel is first mentioned in the context of the tribal allotments in the Book of Joshua. It is situated within the inheritance of the tribe of Issachar, as described in Joshua 19:18: "Their territory included Jezreel, Chesulloth, Shunem." The city's location in the fertile valley made it an important agricultural center, contributing to its economic and strategic significance. Joram's Residence Jezreel is notably recognized as the residence of King Joram (also known as Jehoram), the son of Ahab and Jezebel, and the king of Israel. The city served as a royal residence and a center of political power during his reign. The narrative of Joram's association with Jezreel is vividly depicted in the accounts of 2 Kings. In 2 Kings 9, the prophet Elisha sends a young prophet to anoint Jehu as king over Israel, commanding him to strike down the house of Ahab. Jehu's subsequent actions lead to a dramatic confrontation in Jezreel. As recorded in 2 Kings 9:14-16 , "So Jehu son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi, conspired against Joram. (Now Joram and all Israel had been defending Ramoth-gilead against Hazael king of Aram, but King Joram had returned to Jezreel to recover from the wounds that the Arameans had inflicted on him in his battle with Hazael king of Aram.) Then Jehu said, 'If you wish to make me king, do not let anyone escape from the city to go and tell it in Jezreel.'" The narrative continues with Jehu's arrival in Jezreel, where he confronts Joram. In 2 Kings 9:21-24 , Joram rides out to meet Jehu, and the encounter results in Joram's death: "Joram said, 'Harness the chariot.' And they harnessed his chariot. Then Joram king of Israel and Ahaziah king of Judah set out, each in his own chariot, to meet Jehu. They met him at the plot of ground that had belonged to Naboth the Jezreelite. When Joram saw Jehu, he asked, 'Have you come in peace, Jehu?' 'How can there be peace,' replied Jehu, 'as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of your mother Jezebel abound?' Joram turned around and fled, calling out to Ahaziah, 'Treachery, Ahaziah!' But Jehu drew his bow and shot Joram between the shoulders. The arrow pierced his heart, and he slumped down in his chariot." Theological and Moral Implications The events at Jezreel underscore themes of divine justice and retribution. The downfall of Joram and the house of Ahab in Jezreel is seen as the fulfillment of God's judgment against the idolatry and wickedness perpetuated by Ahab and Jezebel. The narrative serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from the covenantal faithfulness required by God. Jezreel's role in these events highlights the city's importance not only as a geographical location but also as a symbol of God's sovereign intervention in the affairs of Israel. The city's history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Israel's kings and the prophetic voices that called the nation back to righteousness. Archaeological and Geographical Context Modern archaeological efforts have identified the ancient site of Jezreel at Tel Jezreel, located in the northern part of Israel. Excavations have revealed significant remains that provide insight into the city's layout and historical context during the Iron Age. The Jezreel Valley continues to be a vital agricultural region, reflecting the enduring legacy of its biblical heritage. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 8:29And king Joram went back to be healed in Jezreel of the wounds which the Syrians had given him at Ramah, when he fought against Hazael king of Syria. And Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah went down to see Joram the son of Ahab in Jezreel, because he was sick. Nave's Topical Index Resources Who was King Ahaziah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgPlaces in Israel ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What is the story of Abner and Joab? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Jezreel: A City in the South of the Territory of the Tribe of Judah Jezreel: A City of the Tribe of Issachar Jezreel: A City of the Tribe of Issachar: Ahab's Residence In Jezreel: A City of the Tribe of Issachar: Jehu Kills King Ahab, his Wife, and Friends At Jezreel: A City of the Tribe of Issachar: Joram's Residence In Jezreel: A City of the Tribe of Issachar: Naboth's Vineyard In Jezreel: A City of the Tribe of Issachar: Prophecies Concerning Jezreel: A Valley: Place of Gideon's Battle With the Midianites Jezreel: A Valley: Place of the Defeat of the Israelites Under Saul and Jonathan Jezreel: Figurative of the Northern Kingdom of Israel Related Terms |