Biblical Context:
Jehu, son of Jehoshaphat and grandson of Nimshi, emerges as a pivotal figure in the history of Israel during the tumultuous period of the divided monarchy. His anointing as king marks a significant turning point in the narrative of the Northern Kingdom, as recorded in the books of 1 and 2 Kings. Jehu's rise to power is divinely orchestrated, fulfilling the prophetic word against the house of Ahab.

Anointing and Prophetic Fulfillment:
The anointing of Jehu is a direct fulfillment of the prophecy given to Elijah concerning the destruction of Ahab's dynasty. In 2 Kings 9:1-13, the prophet Elisha, Elijah's successor, sends one of the sons of the prophets to anoint Jehu as king over Israel. The young prophet finds Jehu among his fellow officers and delivers the divine message: "Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: 'I anoint you king over the LORD's people Israel. You are to strike down the house of your master Ahab, so that I may avenge the blood of My servants the prophets and all the servants of the LORD at the hand of Jezebel'" (2 Kings 9:6-7).

Jehu's Mission:
Jehu's anointing is not merely a political maneuver but a divine commission to execute judgment on the house of Ahab. The prophecy underscores God's sovereignty and justice, as Jehu is tasked with eradicating the idolatry and corruption that Ahab and Jezebel had introduced into Israel. This mission aligns with the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and His intolerance of idolatry among His people.

Jehu's Zeal and Actions:
Following his anointing, Jehu demonstrates zeal and determination in carrying out his divine mandate. He swiftly moves to eliminate the remnants of Ahab's lineage, including King Joram of Israel and King Ahaziah of Judah, who were allied through marriage. Jehu's actions are marked by a sense of urgency and decisiveness, as he seeks to purify Israel from the influence of Baal worship.

Jehu's confrontation with Jezebel is particularly notable. As recorded in 2 Kings 9:30-37, Jezebel meets her end in Jezreel, fulfilling Elijah's prophecy that dogs would devour her flesh. Jehu's subsequent eradication of Ahab's seventy sons and the followers of Baal further cements his role as an instrument of divine judgment.

Theological Significance:
Jehu's anointing and subsequent actions highlight the themes of divine justice and the fulfillment of prophecy. His account serves as a reminder of God's active involvement in the affairs of nations and His commitment to upholding His covenant with Israel. Jehu's reign, while marked by initial zeal for the LORD, also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of incomplete obedience, as he ultimately fails to remove the golden calves at Bethel and Dan, which Jeroboam had set up.

Historical Impact:
Jehu's reign, which lasted approximately 28 years, brought about significant political and religious changes in Israel. His actions effectively ended the Omride dynasty and temporarily halted the spread of Baal worship. However, the long-term impact of his reforms was limited by his failure to fully restore the worship of Yahweh according to the Mosaic Law.

Jehu's legacy is complex, as he is remembered both for his zeal in executing God's judgment and for his shortcomings in leading Israel back to true worship. His account is a testament to the intricate interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency in the biblical narrative.