Topical Encyclopedia Zimri was the fifth king of the northern kingdom of Israel, known for his brief and tumultuous reign. His account is primarily recorded in the First Book of Kings, specifically in 1 Kings 16:9-20. Zimri's rise to power and subsequent downfall are emblematic of the political instability and moral decline that characterized the Northern Kingdom during this period.Background and Rise to Power Zimri served as a commander of half the chariots under King Elah, the son of Baasha. His opportunity for ascension came during a time of internal strife and dissatisfaction with the ruling house. In 1 Kings 16:9-10, the narrative describes how Zimri conspired against Elah while the king was in a state of drunkenness at the house of Arza, the palace administrator in Tirzah. Seizing the moment, Zimri assassinated Elah and declared himself king. Reign and Actions as King Zimri's reign lasted only seven days, making it one of the shortest in the history of the Israelite monarchy. Upon taking the throne, Zimri immediately executed the entire house of Baasha, fulfilling the prophecy of Jehu the son of Hanani against Baasha's lineage (1 Kings 16:11-12). This act was intended to secure his position by eliminating any potential claimants to the throne from Baasha's family. Downfall and Death Despite his swift actions, Zimri's rule was met with resistance. The army of Israel, which was besieging Gibbethon, a Philistine city, heard of Zimri's coup and responded by proclaiming Omri, the commander of the army, as king (1 Kings 16:16). Omri's forces quickly marched to Tirzah to confront Zimri. Realizing that his position was untenable and that he was trapped, Zimri chose to end his life rather than face capture. He set the royal palace on fire around himself, dying in the flames (1 Kings 16:18). His death marked the end of his brief and violent attempt to rule Israel. Legacy and Biblical Assessment Zimri's reign is often viewed as a cautionary tale of ambition and the consequences of ungodly leadership. The biblical narrative in 1 Kings 16:19 attributes his downfall to his sins, which mirrored those of Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom, who led Israel into idolatry. Zimri's actions are seen as part of the ongoing cycle of rebellion against God that plagued the kings of Israel. The account of Zimri serves as a reminder of the divine judgment that befalls those who lead God's people astray and the futility of seeking power through treachery and violence. His account is a testament to the instability that characterized the Northern Kingdom, setting the stage for the subsequent reigns of Omri and his descendants. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 16:9-20And his servant Zimri, captain of half his chariots, conspired against him, as he was in Tirzah, drinking himself drunk in the house of Arza steward of his house in Tirzah. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 9:31 Library How Zerah, King of the Ethiopians, was Beaten by Asa; and How Asa ... The Divided Kingdom. National Apostasy Sixth Commandment The Antiquities of the Jews The Record of Two Kings Demonstration vi. --Of Monks. CHAP. I. -II. 3 (II. 1). Appendices The Justice of God Resources Who was King Baasha in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Christian view of suicide? What does the Bible say about suicide? | GotQuestions.org Why was the worship of Baal and Asherah a constant struggle for the Israelites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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