2 Kings 9:37

And Jezebel's body will lie like dung in the field on the plot of ground at Jezreel, so that no one can say: This is Jezebel.'"

Study Bible

And Jezebel’s body will lie like dung in the field
This phrase signifies the ultimate disgrace and humiliation for Jezebel, a queen known for her idolatry and persecution of God's prophets. In ancient Israel, a proper burial was a sign of honor, while being left unburied was a curse and a sign of divine judgment. The comparison to dung emphasizes the contempt and worthlessness attributed to her due to her actions. This fulfills the prophecy given by Elijah in 1 Kings 21:23, where it was foretold that dogs would devour Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel.

on the plot of ground at Jezreel
Jezreel was a significant location in Israel, serving as a royal city and a site of many pivotal events. It was here that Naboth's vineyard was unjustly taken by Ahab and Jezebel, leading to their downfall. The mention of Jezreel ties back to the injustices committed by Jezebel and Ahab, highlighting the theme of divine retribution. The plot of ground is a reminder of the specific prophecy against Jezebel and the fulfillment of God's word.

so that no one can say: This is Jezebel.’”
This phrase underscores the complete erasure of Jezebel's legacy and identity. In the cultural context of the time, a person's name and memory were crucial to their honor and legacy. By ensuring that no one could identify her remains, the prophecy indicates that Jezebel's influence and memory would be obliterated. This serves as a stark warning against idolatry and rebellion against God, illustrating the severe consequences of such actions. The anonymity of her remains contrasts with the eternal remembrance of the righteous, as seen in scriptures like Proverbs 10:7, which states, "The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot."

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jezebel
A queen of Israel, wife of King Ahab, known for her idolatry and persecution of the prophets of Yahweh. Her death and the desecration of her body fulfill the prophecy against her due to her wickedness.

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

3. Jezreel
A city in the northern kingdom of Israel, significant as the location of Jezebel's death and the fulfillment of Elijah's prophecy.

4. Prophecy of Elijah
Elijah prophesied the downfall of Ahab's house and specifically the gruesome end of Jezebel, which is fulfilled in this passage.

5. Divine Judgment
The event of Jezebel's death and the treatment of her body serve as a stark representation of God's judgment against idolatry and wickedness.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's promises and prophecies are sure and will come to pass. Jezebel's fate is a reminder that God will not be mocked, and His justice will prevail.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Jezebel's life and death illustrate the severe consequences of leading others into idolatry and opposing God's truth. Believers are called to remain faithful and avoid the snares of false worship.

The Role of Prophets and Prophecy
Prophets like Elijah play a crucial role in declaring God's truth and warning against sin. We should heed the warnings and teachings found in Scripture.

The Importance of Repentance
Jezebel's refusal to repent led to her downfall. This serves as a warning to us to turn from sin and seek God's forgiveness.

God's Sovereignty in History
The events surrounding Jezebel's death demonstrate God's control over history and His ability to use individuals and events to accomplish His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fulfillment of Elijah's prophecy in Jezebel's death encourage us to trust in God's Word today?

2. In what ways can the account of Jezebel serve as a warning against the dangers of idolatry in our own lives?

3. How can we discern and respond to the "spirit of Jezebel" in contemporary culture and within the church?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jehu's role in executing God's judgment, and how can we apply these lessons to our own call to uphold righteousness?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty in the events of 2 Kings 9:37 help us navigate challenges and uncertainties in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 21
This chapter details the prophecy given by Elijah concerning the fate of Ahab's house and Jezebel, which is fulfilled in 2 Kings 9.

Revelation 2
The church in Thyatira is warned against tolerating the spirit of Jezebel, symbolizing the ongoing battle against idolatry and immorality in the church.

Psalm 37
This psalm speaks of the fate of the wicked, emphasizing that their end will be destruction, much like Jezebel's.