Introduction:
Jezebel, the infamous queen of Israel, is a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, known for her idolatry, manipulation, and opposition to the prophets of Yahweh. Her account is primarily found in the books of 1 and 2 Kings, where her actions and the subsequent divine judgment upon her are detailed. Jezebel's life and the judgment she faced serve as a powerful testament to the consequences of leading a nation into idolatry and opposing God's chosen messengers.

Background:
Jezebel was the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, and became the wife of Ahab, king of Israel. Her marriage to Ahab marked a significant turning point in Israel's history, as she introduced the worship of Baal and Asherah, leading the nation into deep idolatry. Jezebel's influence over Ahab and her active persecution of the prophets of Yahweh are well-documented in the biblical text.

Idolatry and Persecution:
Jezebel's commitment to Baal worship was unwavering. She supported 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah, as noted in 1 Kings 18:19. Her hostility towards the prophets of Yahweh was fierce, as she sought to exterminate them, leading to the famous confrontation on Mount Carmel between Elijah and the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:20-40). Her actions were a direct challenge to the covenantal relationship between Yahweh and Israel.

Naboth's Vineyard:
One of the most notorious episodes involving Jezebel is her role in the unlawful acquisition of Naboth's vineyard. When Naboth refused to sell his vineyard to Ahab, Jezebel orchestrated a scheme to falsely accuse Naboth of blasphemy, leading to his execution (1 Kings 21:1-16). This act of injustice further exemplified her disregard for God's laws and her willingness to use deceit and murder to achieve her ends.

Prophetic Judgment:
The judgment pronounced upon Jezebel was delivered by the prophet Elijah. In 1 Kings 21:23, Elijah declared, "And as for Jezebel, the LORD says: ‘The dogs will devour Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel.’" This prophecy highlighted the severity of her sins and the certainty of divine retribution. The judgment was not only a personal condemnation but also a warning to the house of Ahab and the nation of Israel.

Fulfillment of Judgment:
The fulfillment of Elijah's prophecy is recorded in 2 Kings 9. Jehu, anointed as king of Israel, was the instrument of God's judgment against the house of Ahab. As Jehu entered Jezreel, Jezebel confronted him from a window. Jehu ordered her eunuchs to throw her down, and she was trampled underfoot. In 2 Kings 9:36-37, Jehu recalled Elijah's prophecy, stating, "This is the word of the LORD that He spoke through His servant Elijah the Tishbite: ‘In the plot of ground at Jezreel the dogs will devour the flesh of Jezebel. Jezebel’s body will be like dung on the field in the plot of Jezreel, so that no one can say: This is Jezebel.’"

Significance:
The judgment on Jezebel serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of idolatry, manipulation, and defiance against God. Her account is a cautionary tale about the dangers of turning away from God's commandments and the inevitable justice that follows such rebellion. Jezebel's fate underscores the biblical principle that God will not be mocked, and His justice will prevail over those who lead others astray and oppose His will.