2 Kings 9:35 – “But when they went out to bury her, they found nothing except her skull, her feet and her hands.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse details what happened when the servants went to bury Jezebel, following Jehu’s instructions. However, they discovered that there was almost nothing left of her body except her skull, feet, and hands. This grisly scene fulfills the prophecy given by Elijah that Jezebel’s body would be devoured by dogs, and she would not receive the burial typically given to royalty. The fact that only parts of her body remained emphasizes the completeness of her judgment and the severity of her end. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of living in rebellion against God.
Historical Context
Jezebel was the wife of King Ahab and was known for leading Israel into the worship of Baal. She used her power to commit acts of great wickedness, including the murder of God’s prophets and the unjust execution of Naboth to seize his vineyard. Because of her actions, God declared through the prophet Elijah that she would face a violent death and that dogs would eat her body (1 Kings 21:23). By the time of 2 Kings 9, Jehu had been anointed as the instrument of God’s judgment on the house of Ahab, which included Jezebel. Her death and the gruesome discovery of her remains fulfill that prophecy and signify the end of her evil influence.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse underscores the certainty and severity of God’s judgment. Jezebel had been warned repeatedly about the consequences of her actions, yet she continued in her rebellion. Her death and the way her body was devoured by dogs show that no one can escape God’s judgment, no matter their power or position. This passage also reminds us that God’s word is always fulfilled. Elijah’s prophecy about Jezebel’s fate was given years before, yet it came to pass exactly as foretold. It emphasizes the importance of heeding God’s warnings and living in obedience to Him, knowing that His judgment, though sometimes delayed, is inevitable for those who persist in sin.
Literary Analysis
This verse is stark and graphic, using vivid imagery to illustrate the outcome of Jezebel’s life of rebellion. The discovery of only her skull, feet, and hands highlights the completeness of her destruction and reinforces the prophetic nature of her death. The fact that these body parts remain while the rest of her has been devoured by dogs serves as a literary device to show the degradation and humiliation of someone who had once wielded immense power. The imagery is both literal and symbolic, representing the totality of God’s judgment on her and the finality of her influence.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Kings 21:23 – Elijah’s prophecy that dogs would devour Jezebel’s body is fulfilled in this passage.
- Psalm 34:21 – “Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned.” Jezebel’s evil led to her ultimate destruction.
- Proverbs 11:21 – “Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished.” This verse echoes the message of God’s judgment on Jezebel’s wickedness.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder that no one is exempt from God’s judgment. Jezebel’s life was marked by rebellion, pride, and wickedness, and in the end, she faced the consequences of her choices. This challenges us to live lives of humility and obedience to God, knowing that He sees all things and will hold each person accountable. It also reminds us that God’s justice is sure, even when it seems delayed. We can trust that God will ultimately make things right and that those who persist in evil will face judgment. At the same time, this verse calls us to examine our own hearts and turn to God in repentance, recognizing that He offers forgiveness to those who seek Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Although this verse speaks of judgment, it reflects God’s love for justice and His desire to protect His people from evil. By bringing an end to Jezebel’s reign of wickedness, God was cleansing Israel from a corrupting influence that had led the nation astray. God’s love is shown in His commitment to upholding truth and righteousness. He does not allow evil to go unchecked but acts to remove it and restore His people to a right relationship with Him. While His judgment on Jezebel was severe, it was also a necessary act of love for the greater good of His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jezebel’s death serves as a contrast to the grace and redemption offered through Jesus Christ. Where Jezebel’s life led to judgment and destruction, Jesus offers the opportunity for forgiveness and eternal life. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus bore the judgment for our sins, offering us a way to avoid the kind of fate Jezebel faced. In Revelation 19:11-16, Jesus is depicted as the righteous Judge who will return to bring justice to the world. While Jezebel’s death points to the reality of judgment for sin, Jesus provides a way for us to be reconciled to God and escape that judgment through faith in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jezebel’s fate serve as a warning about the consequences of living in rebellion against God?
- What does this passage teach us about the certainty of God’s judgment and the fulfillment of His word?
- How can we ensure that we are living in obedience to God, rather than following the corrupting influences of the world?
- In what ways does this passage contrast with the grace and forgiveness offered through Jesus, and how should that impact our response to God’s call for repentance?