Zedekiah, son of Chenaanah, is a figure in the Hebrew Bible known for his role as a false prophet during the reign of King Ahab of Israel. His actions are prominently featured in the narrative of 1 Kings 22 and 2 Chronicles 18, where he stands in opposition to Micaiah, a true prophet of the LORD.

Historical Context

Zedekiah lived during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, marked by the reign of Ahab, a king who "did more evil in the eyes of the LORD than all those before him" (1 Kings 16:30). Ahab's marriage to Jezebel, a Phoenician princess, led to the promotion of Baal worship in Israel, further distancing the nation from the worship of Yahweh.

The Prophetic Encounter

The encounter between Zedekiah and Micaiah occurs as Ahab seeks counsel regarding a military campaign against Ramoth-gilead. Ahab, alongside Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, gathers about four hundred prophets to inquire of the LORD. These prophets, including Zedekiah, unanimously predict success for the kings, saying, "Go up, for the Lord will give it into the hand of the king" (1 Kings 22:6).

Zedekiah distinguishes himself among the prophets by crafting iron horns, a symbolic act, and declaring, "This is what the LORD says: ‘With these you will gore the Arameans until they are destroyed’" (1 Kings 22:11). His dramatic gesture and confident proclamation aim to assure Ahab of victory.

Confrontation with Micaiah

Despite the favorable prophecies, Jehoshaphat requests a prophet of the LORD, leading to the summoning of Micaiah. Unlike the other prophets, Micaiah delivers a message of impending defeat, stating, "I saw all Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd" (1 Kings 22:17). Micaiah further reveals a vision of the heavenly court, where a lying spirit is sent to entice Ahab's prophets to predict success falsely.

Zedekiah, incensed by Micaiah's prophecy, strikes him on the cheek and challenges his authenticity, asking, "Which way did the Spirit of the LORD go from me to speak to you?" (1 Kings 22:24). This act of violence underscores Zedekiah's rejection of Micaiah's message and his allegiance to Ahab's agenda.

Theological Implications

Zedekiah's actions highlight the tension between true and false prophecy in Israel. His willingness to deceive and his physical assault on Micaiah reflect a broader spiritual apostasy under Ahab's rule. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of false prophecy and the importance of discerning the true voice of God.

Legacy

Zedekiah's legacy is one of infamy, as his false prophecies contribute to Ahab's downfall. The account of his confrontation with Micaiah remains a powerful reminder of the conflict between truth and deception, and the ultimate triumph of God's word through His true prophets.1 Kings 22:24
But Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah went near, and smote Micaiah on the cheek, and said, Which way went the Spirit of the LORD from me to speak to you?
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2 Chronicles 18:23
Then Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah came near, and smote Micaiah on the cheek, and said, Which way went the Spirit of the LORD from me to speak to you?
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The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
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