The term "King of Samaria" refers to the monarchs who ruled over the Northern Kingdom of Israel, often called Samaria after its capital city, during the period of the divided monarchy in ancient Israel. This period began after the united monarchy under King Solomon split into two separate kingdoms: the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and the Southern Kingdom (Judah).

Historical Context

The division of the united monarchy occurred around 930 B.C., following the death of Solomon. His son, Rehoboam, became king, but his harsh policies led to a revolt by the ten northern tribes. These tribes established their own kingdom under Jeroboam I, who became the first king of the Northern Kingdom. The capital was initially at Shechem and later moved to Tirzah, before finally being established in Samaria by King Omri (1 Kings 16:24).

Significant Kings

1. Jeroboam I: As the first king, Jeroboam I set the tone for the Northern Kingdom by establishing alternative worship centers at Bethel and Dan to prevent his subjects from traveling to Jerusalem. This act is often criticized in the biblical narrative as leading Israel into sin (1 Kings 12:28-30).

2. Ahab: Perhaps the most infamous king of Samaria, Ahab, son of Omri, is noted for his marriage to Jezebel and the promotion of Baal worship, which led to significant conflict with the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 16:30-33). Ahab's reign is marked by military conflicts and alliances, including the notable confrontation with Ben-Hadad of Aram (1 Kings 20).

3. Jehu: Known for his violent purge of the house of Ahab, Jehu was anointed by the prophet Elisha to execute judgment on Ahab's family and eradicate Baal worship from Israel (2 Kings 9-10). His reign, however, did not lead to a return to the worship of Yahweh alone, as the golden calves at Bethel and Dan remained (2 Kings 10:29).

4. Hoshea: The last king of Israel, Hoshea's reign ended with the Assyrian conquest of Samaria in 722 B.C. This event led to the exile of the Israelites and the end of the Northern Kingdom (2 Kings 17:6).

Religious and Political Challenges

The kings of Samaria faced numerous challenges, both internally and externally. Internally, the persistent idolatry and syncretism, often initiated or tolerated by the kings, drew the condemnation of prophets like Elijah, Elisha, Amos, and Hosea. These prophets called the people back to covenant faithfulness and warned of impending judgment.

Externally, the Northern Kingdom was frequently at odds with neighboring states, including Aram (Syria) and later the expanding Assyrian Empire. The political alliances and conflicts often reflected the kings' attempts to secure their reigns and protect their territories, but these efforts were ultimately unsuccessful in preventing the fall of Samaria.

Biblical References

The biblical narrative provides a detailed account of the kings of Samaria, highlighting their deeds and the spiritual state of the nation. Key passages include:

· 1 Kings 12-22: The establishment of the Northern Kingdom and the reigns of its early kings, including Jeroboam I and Ahab.
· 2 Kings 9-10: The rise of Jehu and his reforms.
· 2 Kings 17: The fall of Samaria and the reasons for Israel's exile.

The kings of Samaria are often depicted as leading the people away from the worship of Yahweh, resulting in divine judgment. The biblical text emphasizes the importance of covenant faithfulness and the consequences of idolatry and disobedience.