Jehu, the son of Hanani, was a prophet in the northern kingdom of Israel during the reign of Baasha, the third king of Israel. Baasha reigned from approximately 909 to 886 BC, succeeding Nadab, the son of Jeroboam. Baasha's rise to power was marked by violence and bloodshed, as he assassinated Nadab and exterminated the entire house of Jeroboam, fulfilling a previous prophecy against Jeroboam's lineage (1 Kings 15:27-29).

Despite being an instrument of divine judgment against Jeroboam's house, Baasha's reign was characterized by similar sins. He continued in the idolatrous practices of his predecessors, leading Israel into further apostasy. This provoked the LORD to send Jehu, the prophet, with a message of judgment against Baasha and his house.

The prophecy delivered by Jehu is recorded in 1 Kings 16:1-4 :

> "Then the word of the LORD came to Jehu son of Hanani against Baasha, saying: 'Even though I lifted you up from the dust and made you ruler over My people Israel, you have walked in the ways of Jeroboam and have caused My people Israel to sin, provoking Me to anger with their sins. So I am about to consume Baasha and his house, and I will make your house like that of Jeroboam son of Nebat. Anyone belonging to Baasha who dies in the city will be eaten by dogs, and anyone who dies in the field will be eaten by the birds of the air.'"

This prophecy highlights several key themes:

1. Divine Sovereignty and Judgment: The LORD, through Jehu, reminds Baasha that his rise to power was orchestrated by divine will. However, Baasha's failure to lead Israel in righteousness and his perpetuation of idolatry warranted divine retribution. The prophecy underscores God's sovereignty in raising and deposing kings according to His purposes.

2. Moral Accountability: Baasha's actions, though initially serving as judgment against Jeroboam's house, did not exempt him from moral responsibility. His continuation in sin and idolatry brought about his own downfall, illustrating the principle that leaders are accountable to God for their actions and the spiritual direction in which they lead their people.

3. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The prophecy against Baasha was fulfilled during the reign of his son Elah. Zimri, one of Elah's officials, conspired against him, killed him, and subsequently destroyed the entire house of Baasha, as recorded in 1 Kings 16:11-13. This fulfillment serves as a testament to the certainty of God's word spoken through His prophets.

Jehu's prophecy against Baasha serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of faithful leadership. It also reinforces the biblical theme that God holds nations and their leaders accountable, ensuring that His purposes are ultimately accomplished in history.