2 Kings 9:33

"Throw her down!" yelled Jehu. So they threw her down, and her blood splattered on the wall and on the horses as they trampled her underfoot.

Study Bible

Throw her down!
This command is issued by Jehu, a newly anointed king of Israel, who is executing divine judgment against the house of Ahab. The phrase "Throw her down!" is a direct and forceful command, reflecting the urgency and decisiveness of Jehu's mission. The Hebrew root for "throw" (שָׁלַךְ, shalak) conveys the idea of casting away or discarding something unwanted or detestable. This act symbolizes the rejection of Jezebel's idolatry and wickedness, which had corrupted Israel. Historically, Jezebel was a Phoenician princess who introduced Baal worship into Israel, leading the nation astray. Jehu's command is not just a physical act but a spiritual cleansing, removing the influence of paganism from the land.

So they threw her down
The servants of Jezebel comply with Jehu's command, indicating a shift in loyalty and the recognition of Jehu's authority. The act of throwing her down signifies the end of Jezebel's reign of terror and the fulfillment of Elijah's prophecy against her (1 Kings 21:23). The Hebrew narrative here emphasizes the swift execution of divine justice. This moment marks a turning point in Israel's history, as the people begin to turn back to the worship of Yahweh. The historical context reveals the deep-seated animosity towards Jezebel, whose actions had led to the persecution of the prophets and the corruption of the nation's faith.

and some of her blood spattered on the wall and on the horses
The graphic description of Jezebel's blood spattering on the wall and horses underscores the violent and total nature of her downfall. Blood in the Hebrew Bible often symbolizes life, guilt, and atonement. Here, it serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The wall and horses, both symbols of strength and power, are stained with her blood, indicating the complete overthrow of her influence. Archaeologically, the presence of fortified walls and chariots in ancient Israelite cities highlights the significance of this imagery, as it portrays the collapse of Jezebel's stronghold.

and Jehu trampled her underfoot
Jehu's act of trampling Jezebel underfoot is a vivid depiction of his triumph over evil. The phrase "trampled her underfoot" conveys utter defeat and humiliation, as trampling is an act of domination and subjugation. In the Hebrew context, feet often symbolize authority and possession. By trampling Jezebel, Jehu asserts his God-given authority and fulfills the divine mandate to eradicate idolatry from Israel. This act also serves as a fulfillment of the prophetic word, demonstrating that God's promises and judgments are sure. Theologically, it reminds believers of the ultimate victory of righteousness over wickedness and the importance of remaining faithful to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehu
Anointed by God as king over Israel, Jehu is tasked with eradicating the house of Ahab and executing divine judgment on Jezebel.

2. Jezebel
The queen mother, known for her idolatry and persecution of God's prophets, is thrown from a window as part of God's judgment against her.

3. The Servants
These are the eunuchs or attendants who obey Jehu's command to throw Jezebel down, signifying a shift in loyalty and the fulfillment of prophecy.

4. The Wall and Horses
The wall and horses are part of the scene where Jezebel's blood is spattered, symbolizing the completeness of her downfall and the thoroughness of God's judgment.

5. Jezreel
The location where this event takes place, significant as a site of previous prophetic activity and judgment.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
God's justice is sure and will be executed in His timing. The account of Jezebel serves as a reminder that no one can escape the consequences of persistent rebellion against God.

The Role of Obedience
The servants' obedience to Jehu's command illustrates the importance of aligning with God's purposes, even when it requires difficult actions.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Jezebel's fate underscores the dangers of idolatry and leading others away from God. It serves as a warning to remain faithful and true to God's commandments.

Prophetic Fulfillment
The fulfillment of prophecy in Jezebel's death demonstrates the reliability of God's word. Believers can trust that what God has spoken will come to pass.

Repentance and Redemption
While Jezebel's account ends in judgment, it serves as a call to repentance for those who have strayed, emphasizing God's desire for redemption over destruction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jezebel's downfall in 2 Kings 9:33 illustrate the certainty of God's justice?

2. In what ways can we see the importance of obedience to God's commands in the actions of Jehu and the servants?

3. How does Jezebel's account serve as a warning against idolatry and leading others astray? Can you identify modern parallels?

4. What does the fulfillment of prophecy in this passage teach us about the reliability of God's word?

5. How can the themes of judgment and redemption in Jezebel's account encourage us to seek repentance and align our lives with God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 21
This chapter details the prophecy against Ahab and Jezebel, which is fulfilled in 2 Kings 9:33. It highlights the continuity of God's word and the certainty of His judgments.

Revelation 2:20
This verse references Jezebel as a symbol of false teaching and immorality within the church, drawing a parallel to her historical role in leading Israel into idolatry.

Psalm 37:28
This scripture speaks of God's justice and His protection of the faithful, contrasting with the fate of the wicked, as seen in Jezebel's demise.