2 Kings 9:23

Joram turned around and fled, calling out to Ahaziah, "Treachery, Ahaziah!"

Study Bible

Joram turned around and fled
This phrase indicates a moment of realization and fear for Joram, the king of Israel. The context is a confrontation with Jehu, who had been anointed by a prophet to become king and execute judgment on the house of Ahab. Joram's flight signifies his recognition of the threat Jehu poses. Historically, this reflects the instability and political intrigue common in the Northern Kingdom of Israel during this period. The act of fleeing can be seen as a fulfillment of divine judgment, as Joram's house was under God's condemnation due to the sins of Ahab and Jezebel.

calling out to Ahaziah
Ahaziah was the king of Judah and a relative of Joram, as both were connected through marriage alliances with the house of Ahab. This alliance is significant as it shows the political and familial ties between the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, despite their often contentious relationship. The call to Ahaziah highlights the urgency and desperation of the situation, as Joram seeks support or at least to warn his ally of the impending danger.

“Treachery, Ahaziah!”
The cry of "Treachery" underscores the betrayal Joram feels, as Jehu, a commander in his army, turns against him. This moment is pivotal in the narrative of 2 Kings, as it marks the beginning of Jehu's violent purge of Ahab's lineage, fulfilling the prophecy given by Elijah (1 Kings 21:21-24). The term "treachery" also reflects the broader theme of divine retribution against the house of Ahab for their idolatry and wickedness. In a typological sense, this moment can be seen as a contrast to the faithfulness of Christ, who, unlike the treacherous leaders of Israel, remains true and just.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joram (Jehoram)
The king of Israel, son of Ahab and Jezebel. He was involved in the events leading to his downfall due to his family's idolatry and disobedience to God.

2. Ahaziah
The king of Judah, son of Jehoram and Athaliah. He was allied with Joram and was present during the events of 2 Kings 9.

3. Jehu
Anointed by God through the prophet Elisha to be king over Israel and tasked with executing judgment on the house of Ahab.

4. Jezreel
The location where the confrontation between Jehu and Joram took place. It was a significant site in the account of Israel's kings.

5. Treachery
The act of betrayal perceived by Joram when Jehu, who was supposed to be a commander in his army, turned against him as part of God's judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's plans and purposes will prevail, even when human leaders attempt to resist or escape His decrees.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Joram's downfall is a direct result of his family's idolatry and disobedience, reminding us of the serious consequences of turning away from God.

The Role of Divine Instruments
Jehu serves as an instrument of God's judgment, illustrating how God can use individuals to fulfill His purposes, even when they seem unlikely.

Recognizing Treachery and Betrayal
Joram's cry of "Treachery" reflects the sudden realization of betrayal, a reminder to be discerning of alliances and the true intentions of others.

The Importance of Obedience to God's Word
The events in 2 Kings 9 emphasize the importance of adhering to God's commands and the dangers of aligning with those who oppose Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Joram and Jehu illustrate the principle of God's sovereignty over human affairs?

2. In what ways does the account of 2 Kings 9 serve as a warning against idolatry and disobedience to God?

3. How can we discern and respond to "treachery" or betrayal in our own lives, and what biblical principles can guide us?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jehu's role as an instrument of God's judgment, and how can we apply these lessons to our understanding of God's justice?

5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in this passage encourage us to trust in the reliability and truth of God's Word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 21
The prophecy against Ahab's house, which Jehu's actions fulfill, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His word.

2 Kings 10
The continuation of Jehu's mission to eradicate the house of Ahab, showing the completeness of God's judgment.

Proverbs 21:30
Highlights that no wisdom, understanding, or counsel can prevail against the Lord, as seen in the downfall of Joram despite his attempts to flee.