2 Kings 9:10

And on the plot of ground at Jezreel the dogs will devour Jezebel, and there will be no one to bury her.'" Then the young prophet opened the door and ran.

Study Bible

As for Jezebel
Jezebel, the infamous queen, was the wife of King Ahab of Israel. Her name has become synonymous with idolatry and wickedness. Historically, Jezebel was a Phoenician princess who introduced the worship of Baal into Israel, leading the nation into sin. Her actions were in direct opposition to the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. The Hebrew root of her name, "Izevel," can mean "not exalted" or "without honor," reflecting her spiritual and moral state.

the dogs will devour her
In ancient Near Eastern culture, being devoured by dogs was considered a disgraceful end, reserved for the most despised individuals. Dogs were not the beloved pets they are today but were often seen as scavengers. This prophecy signifies the complete and utter humiliation and judgment of Jezebel. The Hebrew word for "devour" (אָכַל, 'akal) implies a total consumption, indicating that nothing of her would remain, symbolizing the totality of God's judgment.

on the plot of ground at Jezreel
Jezreel was a significant location in Israel's history, often associated with judgment and bloodshed. It was here that Naboth's vineyard was unjustly taken by Ahab and Jezebel, leading to their eventual downfall. The Hebrew term for "plot of ground" (חֵלֶק, cheleq) can also mean "portion" or "inheritance," highlighting the irony that Jezebel's final "inheritance" would be a place of disgrace.

and there will be no one to bury her
In ancient Israelite culture, burial was a sacred duty, and to be left unburied was a sign of divine curse and dishonor. The absence of burial rites for Jezebel underscores the severity of her judgment. The Hebrew word for "bury" (קָבַר, qabar) is often associated with honor and respect, which Jezebel would be denied.

Then the young prophet opened the door and ran
The young prophet, likely a disciple of Elisha, acts with urgency and obedience. His actions reflect the seriousness of the message he delivered. The Hebrew word for "opened" (פָּתַח, pathach) suggests an unveiling or revelation, while "ran" (רָץ, rats) indicates haste, emphasizing the immediacy and importance of God's prophetic word. This scene underscores the theme of divine authority and the swift execution of God's judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jezebel
The wife of King Ahab, known for her idolatry and persecution of the prophets of Yahweh. Her actions led to significant moral and spiritual decline in Israel.

2. Jehu
Anointed by a prophet to become king of Israel, tasked with executing judgment on the house of Ahab, including Jezebel.

3. Jezreel
A city in the northern kingdom of Israel, significant as the location of Naboth's vineyard and the prophesied site of Jezebel's demise.

4. The Young Prophet
A messenger sent by Elisha to anoint Jehu and deliver God's judgment against Jezebel.

5. Dogs
Symbolic of disgrace and divine judgment, as they were considered unclean animals in ancient Israel.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's pronouncements are sure and will come to pass, as seen in the fulfillment of the prophecy against Jezebel.

The Consequences of Idolatry and Wickedness
Jezebel's life serves as a warning against idolatry and leading others into sin, highlighting the severe consequences of such actions.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership Changes
The anointing of Jehu demonstrates God's control over leadership and His ability to raise up individuals to fulfill His purposes.

The Role of Prophets and Messengers
The young prophet's obedience in delivering God's message, despite the danger, underscores the importance of faithfulness in proclaiming God's truth.

Divine Justice and Mercy
While God's justice is evident in Jezebel's fate, His mercy is available to those who repent and turn from their wicked ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Jezebel in 2 Kings 9:10 demonstrate the certainty of God's word, and how can this assurance impact our faith today?

2. In what ways does Jezebel's account serve as a warning against idolatry and leading others astray? Can you identify modern parallels in today's world?

3. How does the anointing of Jehu illustrate God's sovereignty in leadership? What lessons can we learn about God's control over political and spiritual leaders?

4. What can we learn from the young prophet's obedience and courage in delivering God's message? How can we apply this in our own lives when faced with difficult tasks?

5. Reflect on the concept of divine justice and mercy as seen in Jezebel's account. How can understanding these attributes of God influence our approach to repentance and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 21
This chapter details the account of Naboth's vineyard, where Jezebel orchestrates Naboth's death, leading to the prophecy of her own demise.

2 Kings 9:30-37
These verses describe the fulfillment of the prophecy concerning Jezebel's death, emphasizing the accuracy and certainty of God's word.

Revelation 2:20
This verse references a "Jezebel" in the church of Thyatira, symbolizing false teaching and immorality, drawing a parallel to the original Jezebel's influence.