2 Kings 9:34

Then Jehu went in and ate and drank. "Take care of this cursed woman," he said, "and bury her, for she was the daughter of a king."

Study Bible

Then Jehu went in and ate and drank.
Jehu's actions here reflect a moment of pause after a significant event. In the context of ancient Near Eastern customs, sharing a meal often signified a time of reflection or celebration. Jehu had just executed Jezebel, fulfilling the prophecy against her. His decision to eat and drink may indicate a sense of completion or satisfaction in carrying out God's judgment. This moment also contrasts with the urgency of his previous actions, highlighting a shift from action to contemplation.

“Take care of this cursed woman,” he said,
The term "cursed woman" refers to Jezebel, who was notorious for her idolatry and persecution of the prophets of Yahweh. Her actions had brought a curse upon herself, as prophesied by Elijah in 1 Kings 21:23. Jehu's command to "take care" of her body, despite her being cursed, reflects a recognition of her status and the need to adhere to burial customs, even for those who were considered enemies or accursed.

“and bury her,
In ancient Israelite culture, burial was an important practice, even for those who had died under judgment. Proper burial was seen as a sign of respect and a way to ensure rest for the deceased. Jehu's command to bury Jezebel, despite her wickedness, underscores the cultural importance of burial rites. It also fulfills the prophecy that her body would be eaten by dogs, leaving nothing to bury, as a sign of her disgrace (2 Kings 9:10).

for she was the daughter of a king.”
Jezebel was the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, which gave her a royal status. This acknowledgment by Jehu highlights the political and familial connections that Jezebel had, which were significant in the ancient world. Her royal lineage did not exempt her from judgment, but it did warrant a certain level of respect in death. This phrase also serves as a reminder of the influence and reach of foreign powers and their gods within Israel, which Jezebel had embodied and promoted.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehu
Anointed king of Israel, tasked with eradicating the house of Ahab and executing divine judgment.

2. Jezebel
The wife of King Ahab, known for her idolatry and persecution of the prophets of Yahweh. Her death fulfills Elijah's prophecy.

3. Jezreel
The location where Jezebel met her demise, significant for its association with the house of Ahab and the fulfillment of prophecy.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice and Prophecy Fulfillment
God's justice is sure and His prophecies are fulfilled in His timing. Jehu's actions demonstrate the certainty of God's word.

The Consequences of Idolatry and Wickedness
Jezebel's life and death serve as a stark warning against idolatry and leading others away from God. Her end was a direct result of her actions and rebellion against God.

The Role of Obedience in God's Plan
Jehu's obedience to God's command, despite the gruesome task, highlights the importance of following God's directives even when they are difficult.

The Importance of Respect for the Dead
Despite Jezebel's wickedness, Jehu's command to bury her acknowledges her royal status, teaching us about the importance of respecting the dead.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehu's response to Jezebel's death reflect his understanding of God's justice and prophecy?

2. In what ways does the account of Jezebel serve as a warning against idolatry and leading others astray?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience to God's commands in our own lives, even when they are challenging?

4. What does Jehu's decision to bury Jezebel, despite her wickedness, teach us about respect and dignity?

5. How can the fulfillment of prophecy in Jezebel's death encourage us in our faith and trust in God's promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 21:23
This verse contains the prophecy by Elijah concerning Jezebel's death, which is fulfilled in 2 Kings 9:34.

2 Kings 9:7-10
These verses outline Jehu's divine commission to destroy the house of Ahab, including Jezebel.

Revelation 2:20
Jezebel is referenced symbolically in the New Testament, representing false teaching and immorality within the church.