JEZEBEL IN THE BIBLE

JEZEBEL IN THE BIBLE

Jezebel is a well-known figure in the Bible, famous for her wickedness and the destruction she brought upon the people of Israel. She was the wife of King Ahab and was known for her idolatry, manipulation, and persecution of God’s prophets. Her story can be found in several books of the Old Testament, including 1 Kings and 2 Kings.

Jezebel’s Introduction to Israel

Jezebel was the daughter of King Ethbaal of the Sidonians, who worshiped the false god Baal. She married Ahab, who became the king of Israel, and she introduced the worship of Baal and other pagan gods to the Israelites. Jezebel was a strong-willed woman who did not tolerate anyone who opposed her or her beliefs.

Her Idolatry and Witchcraft

Jezebel’s most notable sin was her idolatry. She built a temple to Baal in Samaria and erected an Asherah pole, both of which were in direct violation of God’s commandments. She also used her influence over Ahab to promote the worship of Baal and encourage the Israelites to turn away from God. Additionally, Jezebel was known for her witchcraft and sorcery, which were also forbidden by God.

Her Persecution of God’s Prophets

Jezebel was fiercely opposed to the worship of the true God and sought to destroy anyone who opposed her. She ordered the killing of many of God’s prophets and persecuted those who remained faithful to God. In 1 Kings 18:4, Obadiah, who was in charge of Ahab’s palace, hid 100 prophets of the Lord in two caves to protect them from Jezebel’s wrath.

Her Death

In the end, Jezebel’s sins caught up with her. In 1 Kings 21, she orchestrated the false accusation and execution of Naboth, a man who refused to sell his vineyard to Ahab. When Elijah confronted Ahab about the matter, he pronounced God’s judgment on Jezebel, saying that the dogs would eat her body in the same place where they had eaten Naboth’s. Later, when Jehu became king of Israel, he ordered Jezebel’s eunuchs to throw her out of a window, and she was trampled to death by horses.

Conclusion

Jezebel was a powerful and wicked woman who brought much destruction upon the people of Israel. Her idolatry, witchcraft, and persecution of God’s prophets are a reminder of the dangers of turning away from God and following false gods. Her story serves as a cautionary tale for us today to remain faithful to God and resist the temptations of the world.