2 Kings 9:22

When Joram saw Jehu, he asked, "Have you come in peace, Jehu?" "How can there be peace," he replied, "as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of your mother Jezebel abound?"

Study Bible

When Joram saw Jehu
This phrase sets the scene for a pivotal encounter. Joram, the king of Israel, is confronted by Jehu, a commander anointed by God to execute judgment. The Hebrew root for "saw" (רָאָה, ra'ah) implies more than just physical sight; it suggests perception and understanding. Joram's recognition of Jehu is not just visual but also a moment of realization that his reign is under threat. Historically, this meeting is significant as it marks the beginning of the end for the house of Ahab, fulfilling Elijah's prophecy.

he asked, 'Have you come in peace, Jehu?'
Joram's question reflects a common ancient Near Eastern concern for peace, or "shalom" (שָׁלוֹם). This word encompasses not only the absence of conflict but also completeness and welfare. Joram's inquiry is ironic, given the tumultuous spiritual and political state of Israel under his rule. His question reveals a desire for stability, yet it is superficial, ignoring the deeper issues of idolatry and apostasy that plague his kingdom.

And Jehu replied, 'How can there be peace
Jehu's response is rhetorical, highlighting the impossibility of true peace under the current conditions. The Hebrew word for "peace" here again is "shalom," emphasizing that genuine peace is unattainable without addressing the root causes of Israel's turmoil. Jehu's mission is divinely ordained to cleanse Israel of its spiritual corruption, and his question underscores the necessity of confronting sin to achieve lasting peace.

as long as the idolatry and witchcraft
The terms "idolatry" (זְנוּנִים, zenunim) and "witchcraft" (כְּשָׁפִים, keshafim) denote the spiritual depravity that has infiltrated Israel. "Zenunim" often refers to harlotry or unfaithfulness, symbolizing Israel's betrayal of God through idol worship. "Keshafim" involves sorcery or magical practices, condemned in the Torah as abominations. These practices were introduced and perpetuated by Jezebel, leading Israel away from the covenant with Yahweh. The historical context reveals a nation steeped in pagan rituals, which Jehu is called to eradicate.

of your mother Jezebel abound?'
Jezebel, the Phoenician queen married to Ahab, is infamous for her role in promoting Baal worship and persecuting the prophets of Yahweh. Her influence is a direct challenge to the worship of the one true God. The Hebrew word for "abound" (רַב, rav) suggests a multitude or great extent, indicating the pervasive nature of Jezebel's idolatry and witchcraft. Jehu's mention of Jezebel highlights the personal and systemic corruption she represents. This confrontation is not just political but deeply spiritual, as Jehu seeks to restore Israel's fidelity to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joram (Jehoram)
The king of Israel, son of Ahab and Jezebel, known for continuing the idolatrous practices of his parents.

2. Jehu
Anointed by God through the prophet Elisha to be king over Israel and tasked with eradicating the house of Ahab and the worship of Baal.

3. Jezebel
The mother of Joram, infamous for promoting Baal worship and witchcraft in Israel.

4. Israel
The northern kingdom, often led astray by its kings into idolatry and away from the worship of Yahweh.

5. Idolatry and Witchcraft
Practices condemned by God, prevalent in Israel due to Jezebel's influence, representing spiritual adultery and rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to spiritual decay and separation from God. Just as Israel suffered under Jezebel's influence, we must guard against modern forms of idolatry in our lives.

The Role of Godly Leadership
Jehu's mission underscores the importance of leaders who uphold God's standards. We should pray for and support leaders who seek to honor God in their decisions.

The Importance of Spiritual Discernment
Jehu's recognition of the root cause of Israel's unrest—idolatry and witchcraft—teaches us to discern the spiritual issues underlying societal problems.

The Call to Righteous Action
Jehu's decisive action against the house of Ahab challenges us to take bold steps in addressing sin and promoting righteousness in our communities.

The Danger of Compromise
Joram's failure to break away from his mother's practices serves as a warning against compromising our faith for cultural or familial acceptance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the idolatry and witchcraft in Joram's time compare to the spiritual challenges we face today?

2. In what ways can we identify and remove "idols" in our own lives that hinder our relationship with God?

3. How can we support and encourage godly leadership in our churches and communities?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are spiritually discerning in recognizing the root causes of issues we face?

5. How can the account of Jehu inspire us to take action against sin and promote righteousness in our own spheres of influence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 16:31-33
Provides background on Jezebel's introduction of Baal worship into Israel, setting the stage for the events in 2 Kings 9.

Exodus 20:3-5
The Ten Commandments, which explicitly forbid idolatry, highlighting the gravity of Israel's sin under Ahab and Jezebel.

Galatians 5:19-21
Lists the acts of the flesh, including idolatry and witchcraft, showing their continued relevance as sins in the New Testament.

Revelation 2:20
References Jezebel as a symbol of false teaching and immorality, drawing a parallel to her historical influence in Israel.