A "Wicked Ruler" in the biblical context refers to a leader or king who acts in opposition to God's commandments, leading people into sin and injustice. The Bible provides numerous examples of such rulers, highlighting their actions and the consequences that follow.

Characteristics of a Wicked Ruler:

1. Injustice and Oppression: Wicked rulers are often characterized by their unjust practices and oppression of the people. Proverbs 29:2 states, "When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan." This verse underscores the suffering that comes under the governance of a wicked ruler.

2. Idolatry and False Worship: Many wicked rulers in the Bible led their nations into idolatry, turning away from the worship of the one true God. King Ahab of Israel, influenced by his wife Jezebel, is a prime example. 1 Kings 16:30-33 describes Ahab as doing "more evil in the sight of the LORD than all who were before him," as he served Baal and erected an altar for him.

3. Disobedience to God: Wicked rulers often disregard God's laws and commands. Saul, the first king of Israel, disobeyed God's direct command through the prophet Samuel, leading to his rejection as king (1 Samuel 15:22-23).

4. Pride and Self-Exaltation: Wicked rulers frequently exhibit pride and seek to exalt themselves above God. Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, is an example of this. In Daniel 4:30, he boasts about his power and majesty, only to be humbled by God.

Consequences of Wicked Rule:

1. Divine Judgment: The Bible consistently shows that wicked rulers face God's judgment. For instance, Pharaoh, who oppressed the Israelites, experienced the plagues and the eventual destruction of his army in the Red Sea (Exodus 14:28).

2. National Suffering: Under wicked rulers, nations often suffer. The reign of Manasseh, king of Judah, led to the nation's moral and spiritual decline, resulting in God's judgment and eventual exile (2 Kings 21:10-15).

3. Loss of Authority: God can remove wicked rulers from power. Belshazzar, the last king of Babylon, saw the writing on the wall and lost his kingdom to the Medes and Persians (Daniel 5:30-31).

Examples of Wicked Rulers:

· Ahab (1 Kings 16:29-33): Known for his idolatry and persecution of God's prophets.
· Manasseh (2 Kings 21:1-16): Led Judah into deep sin, including idolatry and child sacrifice.
· Herod the Great (Matthew 2:16): Ordered the massacre of infants in Bethlehem in an attempt to kill the newborn Jesus.

Biblical Warnings Against Wicked Rulers:

The Bible warns against the influence of wicked rulers and encourages prayer for those in authority. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 urges believers to pray for kings and all in authority, "that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity."

In summary, the Bible portrays wicked rulers as those who lead with injustice, idolatry, and pride, ultimately facing divine judgment and causing suffering for their people. The scriptures serve as a reminder of the importance of righteous leadership aligned with God's will.