2 Kings 9:34 – “Jehu went in and ate and drank. ‘Take care of that cursed woman,’ he said, ‘and bury her, for she was a king’s daughter.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, after commanding Jezebel’s death, Jehu goes inside to eat and drink. Once finished, he orders that Jezebel’s body be taken care of and buried, noting that she was a king’s daughter. Jehu’s actions demonstrate that while he had no tolerance for Jezebel’s evil deeds, he still recognized her royal heritage and believed she deserved a burial. However, this respect for her title comes too late, as Elijah’s prophecy foretold that Jezebel’s body would be devoured by dogs, and thus, there would be nothing left to bury.
Historical Context
Jezebel was the wife of King Ahab of Israel and the daughter of Ethbaal, king of Sidon. She played a major role in leading Israel away from God, introducing widespread Baal worship and committing numerous atrocities, including the murder of the innocent Naboth (1 Kings 21). Elijah, the prophet, had pronounced judgment on her, declaring that her body would be devoured by dogs in Jezreel. Jehu, who had been anointed to carry out God’s judgment on the house of Ahab, executed this judgment by ordering her death. After Jezebel’s body was thrown from the window, Jehu demonstrated a momentary consideration of her royal status by ordering her burial, but God’s prophecy concerning her would still come to pass.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of recognizing that no position or title can shield someone from the consequences of their actions when it comes to God’s judgment. Jezebel’s royal heritage, as the daughter of a king, did not exempt her from facing the punishment for her wickedness. While Jehu acknowledged her status, it did not change the fact that her life was marked by rebellion against God, and she faced the consequences. Theologically, this shows that God’s judgment is impartial—He looks at the heart and actions, not external status. It also serves as a reminder that God’s word, through prophecy, will always come to pass, no matter what human considerations are made after the fact.
Literary Analysis
This verse provides a stark contrast between Jehu’s actions and Jezebel’s fate. Jehu’s casual behavior—eating and drinking right after Jezebel’s death—highlights his determination to carry out his mission without hesitation. His decision to order a burial shows a brief moment of reflection on her royal lineage, but it is immediately undercut by the realization that her fate was already sealed by God’s judgment. The reference to Jezebel as “that cursed woman” reinforces the gravity of her sins and the inevitability of her downfall, despite her royal birth.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Kings 21:23 – This verse contains Elijah’s prophecy that dogs would devour Jezebel’s body by the wall of Jezreel, which is about to be fulfilled in this passage.
- Ecclesiastes 12:14 – “For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” Jezebel’s deeds were brought into judgment by God, despite her royal status.
- Psalm 49:16-17 – “Do not be overawed when others grow rich, when the splendor of their houses increases; for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendor will not descend with them.” This echoes the idea that Jezebel’s royal status had no bearing on the judgment she faced.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder that no earthly status or position can protect us from the consequences of our actions. Jezebel’s role as a queen and a king’s daughter did not shield her from God’s judgment for her wickedness. This challenges us to consider how we live our lives, recognizing that what truly matters is our relationship with God and our obedience to His will. It also highlights the importance of humility, as God’s judgment is impartial, and no amount of worldly power or influence can change His righteous decrees.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Though this verse deals with judgment, it also reflects God’s love for truth, justice, and His people. By executing judgment on Jezebel, God was removing a corrupt and evil influence from Israel. His love is seen in His commitment to restoring righteousness and protecting His people from further harm. God’s justice is an expression of His love, as it ensures that evil is dealt with and does not have the final word. While Jezebel faced the consequences of her rebellion, God’s love is demonstrated in His desire to uphold truth and deliver His people from wicked leadership.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jezebel’s fate contrasts with the grace offered through Jesus Christ. While Jezebel’s life was marked by pride, rebellion, and unrepentance, Jesus offers forgiveness and redemption to all who turn to Him in faith. Where Jezebel faced judgment for her sin, Jesus bore the punishment for our sins on the cross, offering us the chance to escape judgment. Jesus, the true King, invites us into His kingdom not based on worldly status, but on our faith in Him and His saving grace. Revelation 19:11-16 presents Jesus as the ultimate righteous Judge who will one day return to bring justice to the world, but He also offers mercy to those who come to Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jezebel’s fate serve as a reminder that no earthly position can protect us from the consequences of sin?
- What can we learn from Jehu’s actions in this passage about the importance of carrying out God’s will, even in difficult situations?
- How does this verse challenge us to reflect on the way we live our lives, especially in terms of humility and accountability before God?
- In what ways does Jezebel’s judgment point us to the grace offered through Jesus, who took on the judgment we deserve so we can be forgiven?