Topical Encyclopedia Jezebel is a prominent figure in the Bible, known for her role as a queen and her influence as a prophetess, albeit a false one. Her account is primarily found in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings. Jezebel was the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, and became the wife of Ahab, king of Israel. Her marriage to Ahab marked a significant turning point in the spiritual and political landscape of Israel.Background and Influence Jezebel's introduction into the Israelite monarchy brought with it the worship of Baal, a Canaanite deity. Her influence over King Ahab led to the widespread promotion of Baal worship, which was in direct opposition to the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. Jezebel's actions were seen as a direct challenge to the covenantal relationship between God and His people. The Bible describes Jezebel as a woman of strong will and determination, using her position to further her religious and political agenda. She is often associated with idolatry, immorality, and the persecution of the prophets of Yahweh. Her actions are seen as a direct affront to the commandments of God, particularly the first commandment, which prohibits the worship of other gods. Conflict with Elijah One of the most notable episodes involving Jezebel is her conflict with the prophet Elijah. Elijah, a prophet of Yahweh, stood in opposition to the idolatrous practices promoted by Jezebel. In 1 Kings 18, Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to a contest on Mount Carmel to demonstrate the power of the true God. The outcome, where Yahweh answers Elijah's prayer with fire from heaven, leads to the execution of the prophets of Baal. Jezebel's response to this event is one of anger and vengeance, as she vows to kill Elijah (1 Kings 19:2): "So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, 'May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like the lives of those you killed.'" Jezebel's Downfall Jezebel's reign of influence eventually comes to an end as prophesied by Elijah. Her demise is recorded in 2 Kings 9, where Jehu, anointed as king of Israel, is tasked with eradicating the house of Ahab. Jezebel meets a gruesome end, fulfilling the prophecy spoken by Elijah (2 Kings 9:33-37): "He said, 'Throw her down!' So they threw her down, and some of her blood spattered the wall and the horses, and Jehu trampled her underfoot... When they went out to bury her, they found nothing but her skull, her feet, and the palms of her hands." Symbolism and Legacy In the New Testament, Jezebel's name is used symbolically in the book of Revelation to describe a false prophetess who leads believers astray (Revelation 2:20): "But I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads My servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols." This reference underscores her enduring legacy as a symbol of false prophecy and corruption within the church. Jezebel's account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of idolatry, the influence of ungodly leadership, and the consequences of turning away from the commandments of God. Her life and actions are a stark reminder of the spiritual battles faced by the people of God and the importance of remaining faithful to His word. 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 Miscellaneous Subjects. Resources Who was Anna the prophetess in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophets are in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is a prophetess? Does the Bible mention any prophetesses? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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