Topical Encyclopedia
The conspiracy of Jehu against Joram is a significant event in the history of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, illustrating the divine judgment against the house of Ahab and the fulfillment of prophetic word. This episode is recorded in
2 Kings 9, where Jehu, a commander in the army of Israel, is anointed by a prophet sent by Elisha to become king and execute judgment on the house of Ahab.
Background and ContextJoram (also known as Jehoram) was the son of Ahab and Jezebel, and he reigned as king over Israel. His reign was marked by continued idolatry and the perpetuation of the sins of his parents, particularly the worship of Baal. The house of Ahab had been under divine judgment since the time of Elijah, who prophesied the downfall of Ahab's lineage due to their idolatry and the murder of Naboth (
1 Kings 21:17-24).
The Anointing of JehuThe conspiracy begins with the divine commissioning of Jehu. In
2 Kings 9:1-3, Elisha the prophet sends one of the sons of the prophets to Ramoth-gilead to anoint Jehu, the son of Jehoshaphat, as king over Israel. The young prophet is instructed to anoint Jehu and then flee immediately. Upon arrival, the prophet takes Jehu aside and anoints him, declaring, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anoint you king over the LORD’s people Israel. You are to strike down the house of your master Ahab, so that I may avenge the blood of My servants the prophets and all the servants of the LORD who died at the hand of Jezebel’" (
2 Kings 9:6-7).
Jehu's Conspiracy and Execution of JudgmentAfter being anointed, Jehu conspires against Joram. At the time, Joram was recovering from wounds sustained in battle against the Arameans at Ramoth-gilead. Jehu rides to Jezreel, where Joram is recuperating, and the watchman reports his approach. Joram, accompanied by Ahaziah, king of Judah, goes out to meet Jehu. Upon meeting, Joram asks, "Have you come in peace, Jehu?" to which Jehu responds, "How can there be peace as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of your mother Jezebel abound?" (
2 Kings 9:22).
Realizing the threat, Joram attempts to flee, but Jehu draws his bow and shoots Joram between the shoulders, killing him. Jehu then orders Joram's body to be thrown onto the field of Naboth the Jezreelite, fulfilling the prophecy spoken by Elijah (
2 Kings 9:24-26).
Aftermath and SignificanceJehu's conspiracy does not end with Joram. He also pursues Ahaziah, king of Judah, who is wounded and later dies. Jehu then enters Jezreel, where Jezebel meets her demise, fulfilling further prophetic words against the house of Ahab (
2 Kings 9:30-37).
The conspiracy of Jehu against Joram is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, demonstrating God's sovereignty and justice. It underscores the biblical theme of divine retribution against idolatry and wickedness, as well as the fulfillment of prophecy. Jehu's actions, while violent, are portrayed as instruments of divine judgment, cleansing Israel from the influence of Ahab and Jezebel's idolatry.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Kings 9:14So Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat the son of Nimshi conspired against Joram. (Now Joram had kept Ramothgilead, he and all Israel, because of Hazael king of Syria.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
Summary of the Book of 2 Kings - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the divine right of kings? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of 1 Kings - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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