# Jezebel ## Name(s) and Meaning - **Names:** Jezebel. - **Meaning:** The name Jezebel is often understood to mean "Where is the prince?" or "Baal exalts." - **Significance:** Her name is associated with idolatry and opposition to the worship of Yahweh, reflecting her role and actions as depicted in the biblical narrative. ## Lifespan/Timeline - **Lifespan:** Jezebel's life is situated during the reign of her husband, King Ahab, in the 9th century BC. - **Historical Context:** She lived during the time when the Kingdom of Israel was divided, and her marriage to Ahab represented a political alliance with Phoenicia, where she originated. ## Roles/Titles - **Roles:** Queen, wife of King Ahab. - **Significance:** Jezebel is known for promoting the worship of Baal and Asherah in Israel, opposing the prophets of Yahweh, and persecuting them. Her influence and actions led to significant conflict with the prophet Elijah and are seen as a catalyst for divine judgment upon the house of Ahab. ## Tags - `#biblical-figures` - `#roles-queen` - `#timelines-divided-kingdom` ## Cross-References - Jezebel is introduced in [[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]]. - Her persecution of prophets and influence is seen in [[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]] and [[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 19|1 Kings Chapter 19]]. - Her demise is detailed in [[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]. ## Key References: Jezebel ### Primary Passages - **Marriage to Ahab and Introduction:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]]—Jezebel is introduced as the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, and wife of Ahab, king of Israel. Her influence leads Ahab to worship Baal. - **Persecution of Prophets and Naboth’s Vineyard:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]]—Jezebel's persecution of the prophets of the Lord is mentioned. - **Naboth’s Vineyard Incident:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]]—Jezebel orchestrates the wrongful execution of Naboth to secure his vineyard for Ahab. - **Prophecy Against Jezebel:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]]—Elijah prophesies the downfall of Jezebel and her death as a consequence of her actions. ### Mentions in Genealogies - **Phoenician Lineage:** Jezebel is identified as the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, linking her to the Phoenician line. Her marriage to Ahab represents a union between Israel and a foreign pagan influence, as seen in [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]]. ### New Testament References - **Symbol of Immorality and Idolatry:** Jezebel is mentioned symbolically in [[Revelation/Revelation Chapter 2|Revelation Chapter 2]] in the letter to the church in Thyatira, representing false teaching and immorality. ### Prophetic/Typological References - **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** The fulfillment of Elijah’s prophecy concerning Jezebel’s death is recorded in [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]], where she is thrown from a window, trampled, and eaten by dogs. This event underscores the theme of divine justice and the consequences of idolatry and wickedness. ### Tags - `#key-references` - `#genealogy` - `#new-testament` - `#prophecy` - `#jezebel` - `#idolatry` - `#divine-justice` ## Relationships: Jezebel ### Family Relationships - **Parents:** Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians (mentioned in [[1Kings/1 Kings 16:31|1 Kings 16:31]]). - **Spouse:** Ahab, king of Israel ([[1Kings/1 Kings 16:31|1 Kings 16:31]]). - **Children:** Ahaziah, Joram, and Athaliah ([[2Kings/2 Kings 8:18|2 Kings 8:18]], [[2Kings/2 Kings 9:22|2 Kings 9:22]]). ### Allies/Friends - **Baal Prophets:** Jezebel supported and maintained the prophets of Baal, providing them sustenance ([[1Kings/1 Kings 18:19|1 Kings 18:19]]). - **Elders and Nobles of Jezreel:** She conspired with them to falsely accuse Naboth and have him executed ([[1Kings/1 Kings 21:8-10|1 Kings 21:8-10]]). ### Adversaries/Conflicts - **Elijah the Prophet:** Jezebel sought to kill Elijah after he defeated the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel ([[1Kings/1 Kings 19:1-2|1 Kings 19:1-2]]). - **Jehu:** Anointed by God to destroy the house of Ahab and Jezebel; he ordered her death ([[2Kings/2 Kings 9:30-33|2 Kings 9:30-33]]). ### Spiritual Relationships - **God:** Jezebel was known for leading Israel into idolatry and turning them away from God, which ultimately led to her downfall as prophesied by God’s prophets ([[1Kings/1 Kings 21:23|1 Kings 21:23]], [[2Kings/2 Kings 9:7-10|2 Kings 9:7-10]]). ### Tags - `#relationships` - `#family` - `#allies` - `#conflicts` - `#relationship-with-God` - `#jezebel` - `#queen` - `#idolatry` - `#prophets-of-baal` - `#conflict-with-prophets` ## Significance: Jezebel ### Theological Importance - **Idolatry and Apostasy:** Jezebel is a significant figure in the narrative of Israel's spiritual decline, representing the dangers of idolatry and turning away from God's commandments ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]]). Her introduction of Baal worship into Israel highlights themes of spiritual unfaithfulness and rebellion against God. - **Judgment and Justice:** Her story emphasizes God's justice and the consequences of leading others astray, as seen in her ultimate demise and the prophetic judgment pronounced against her ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). ### Historical Context - **Influence on Israel’s Kings:** As the wife of King Ahab, Jezebel held significant influence over the king and the religious direction of Israel, leading to increased pagan worship and conflict with the prophets of Yahweh ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 19|1 Kings Chapter 19]]). - **Conflict with Prophets:** Her opposition to Elijah and other prophets of God marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, showcasing the tension between the worship of Yahweh and pagan practices ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 19|1 Kings Chapter 19]]). ### Symbolism and Typology - **Symbol of Corruption:** Jezebel is often used symbolically to represent corruption and the seduction of God's people away from true worship, as reflected in the New Testament reference to her in the church of Thyatira ([[Revelation/Revelation Chapter 2|Revelation Chapter 2]]). - **Antithesis of Faithfulness:** Her life serves as a typological warning against spiritual compromise and the abandonment of God's laws, contrasting with the faithfulness expected of God's people. ### Tags - `#significance` - `#theological-themes` - `#idolatry` - `#biblical-history` - `#judgment` - `#typology` - `#apostasy` ## Character Study: Jezebel ### Strengths and Virtues - **Influential:** Jezebel had significant influence over King Ahab and the kingdom of Israel, using her position to support the worship of Baal and Asherah ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16#Verse 31|1 Kings 16:31]]). Her ability to sway others demonstrates her strong will and persuasive capabilities. ### Weaknesses and Failures - **Idolatry:** Jezebel was a fervent promoter of idol worship, leading Israel astray by encouraging the worship of Baal ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18#Verse 4|1 Kings 18:4]]). This was a direct violation of God’s commandments and contributed to Israel’s spiritual decline. - **Murderous:** She orchestrated the killing of Naboth to secure his vineyard for Ahab, showcasing her ruthless and unjust nature ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21#Verse 15|1 Kings 21:15]]). - **Persecution of Prophets:** Jezebel ordered the massacre of the prophets of Yahweh, revealing her hostility towards God’s messengers ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18#Verse 13|1 Kings 18:13]]). ### Lessons Learned - **Consequences of Idolatry:** Jezebel's life demonstrates the destructive power of idolatry and the severe consequences it brings, not only on individuals but also on entire nations ([[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9#Verse 22|2 Kings 9:22]]). - **Divine Judgment:** Her eventual downfall and death show that God’s justice prevails. Her death, as prophesied by Elijah, illustrates that God’s word is sure and that evil will not go unpunished ([[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9#Verse 30-37|2 Kings 9:30-37]]). ### Tags - `#strengths-influential` - `#weaknesses-idolatry` - `#weaknesses-murderous` - `#weaknesses-persecution` - `#lessons-divinejudgment` - `#lessons-idolatryconsequences` ## Themes and Symbolism: Jezebel ### Key Themes - **Idolatry and Apostasy:** Jezebel is a central figure in the promotion of Baal worship in Israel, leading the nation into idolatry and away from God ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]]). - **Conflict with God’s Prophets:** Her actions lead to direct conflict with the prophets of Yahweh, most notably Elijah, highlighting the struggle between true worship and false religion ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 19|1 Kings Chapter 19]]). - **Judgment and Retribution:** Jezebel's life and actions ultimately lead to divine judgment, serving as a warning against leading others into sin ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). ### Symbolic Elements - **Baal Worship:** Symbolizes rebellion against God and the embrace of pagan practices, showcasing the spiritual degradation of Israel under her influence ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]]). - **Naboth’s Vineyard:** The unjust acquisition of Naboth’s vineyard under Jezebel’s orders symbolizes her abuse of power and disregard for justice ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Judgment against Apostasy:** Jezebel’s downfall and the manner of her death foreshadow the ultimate judgment against idolatry and those who lead others away from God ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]], [[Revelation/Revelation Chapter 2|Revelation Chapter 2]]). - **Antithesis of Righteous Leadership:** Her reign contrasts with the righteous leadership expected by God, highlighting the dangers of ungodly influence within the kingdom ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). ### Tags - `#themes` - `#symbolism` - `#typology` - `#foreshadowing` - `#idolatry` - `#apostasy` - `#judgment` - `#conflict` - `#abuseofpower` ## Connections: Jezebel ### Parallel Figures - **Athaliah:** Like Jezebel, Athaliah was a queen who promoted idol worship and sought power through ruthless means. Her reign is marked by similar themes of apostasy and conflict with God’s prophets ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]]). - **Herodias:** In the New Testament, Herodias, who sought the death of John the Baptist, parallels Jezebel's pursuit of Elijah. Both women used their influence to oppose God's messengers ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 14|Matthew Chapter 14]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Apostasy:** Jezebel symbolizes the spirit of apostasy and opposition to God's covenant, a theme that runs throughout the Bible and is ultimately overcome by God's redemptive plan ([[Revelation/Revelation Chapter 2|Revelation Chapter 2]]). - **Judgment:** Her judgment foreshadows the ultimate defeat of evil and idolatry in the eschatological narrative, as seen in the prophetic literature ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). ### Cultural/Historical Context - **Phoenician Influence:** Jezebel's marriage to Ahab and her introduction of Baal worship highlight the cultural and religious syncretism challenges faced by Israel, reflecting the tensions between the worship of Yahweh and Canaanite deities ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]]). - **Monarchic Israel:** Her story is set during the divided kingdom period, illustrating the political and religious complexities of Israel and Judah ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]]). ### Tags - `#parallel-figures` - `#foreshadowing-Christ` - `#historical-context` - `#apostasy` - `#judgment` - `#idolatry` - `#monarchic-israel` ## Legacy: Jezebel ### Impact on Israel/Church - **Promoter of Idolatry:** Jezebel, as a queen of Israel, significantly influenced the nation by promoting the worship of Baal, leading Israel away from Yahweh ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]], [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]]). Her actions contributed to the spiritual decline of Israel and provoked God's wrath, leading to severe consequences for the nation ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]]). - **Symbol of Apostasy:** Her legacy within Israel is marked by apostasy and rebellion against God, serving as a cautionary tale of the dangers of forsaking the covenant with God. ### Mentions in Later Scripture - **Referred to in Revelation:** Jezebel is mentioned in the book of Revelation, where she symbolizes false prophecy and corrupting influence within the church ([[Revelation/Revelation Chapter 2|Revelation Chapter 2]]). This reference underscores her enduring legacy as an archetype of spiritual seduction and opposition to God’s truth. ### Spiritual Lessons - **Consequences of Idolatry:** Jezebel’s life serves as a warning about the consequences of idolatry and the danger of leading others away from true worship ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]], [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). - **Judgment and Justice:** Her story illustrates that God's justice will ultimately prevail over wickedness and that no one is beyond the reach of divine judgment. ### Modern Applications - Jezebel’s legacy is often interpreted in contemporary faith as a reminder to guard against influences that lead away from God’s truth and to remain steadfast in faith. - Her story is used in teachings to exemplify the importance of spiritual discernment and the need to resist corruption and false teachings within the community of believers. ### Tags - `#legacy` - `#impact-on-israel` - `#spiritual-lessons` - `#idolatry` - `#apostasy` - `#divine-justice` ## Geography: Jezebel ### Significant Locations - **Sidon:** The city where Jezebel was born, as she was the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians. Her marriage to Ahab was a political alliance that brought the worship of Baal into Israel ([[1 Kings/1 Kings 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]]). - **Samaria:** The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where Jezebel resided as queen. Here she exerted significant influence over King Ahab and promoted the worship of Baal ([[1 Kings/1 Kings 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]]). - **Jezreel:** A location where Jezebel had a palace; it is also where she met her demise, falling to her death and being devoured by dogs, fulfilling Elijah's prophecy ([[1 Kings/1 Kings 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). ### Travel and Movement - **Journey to Israel:** Jezebel traveled from Sidon to Israel upon her marriage to King Ahab. This move was significant as it marked the introduction and establishment of Baal worship in Israel ([[1 Kings/1 Kings 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]]). ### Historical/Spiritual Context - **Sidon's Influence:** As a center of Baal worship, Sidon's influence on Jezebel was profound, leading to her zealous promotion of Baal in Israel, which was starkly opposed to the worship of Yahweh ([[1 Kings/1 Kings 16|1 Kings Chapter 16]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]]). - **Samaria’s Role:** As the political and religious center during Jezebel's time, Samaria became a battleground for spiritual allegiance between Yahweh and Baal, highlighting the conflict between prophetic voices and royal authority ([[1 Kings/1 Kings 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). - **Prophecy and Fulfillment in Jezreel:** Jezreel's significance is underscored by its association with the fulfillment of Elijah’s prophecy concerning Jezebel’s death, illustrating the certainty of God's judgment ([[1 Kings/1 Kings 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). ### Tags - `#geography` - `#locations-sidon` - `#locations-samaria` - `#locations-jezreel` - `#travel` - `#baal-worship` - `#prophecy-fulfillment` - `#jezebel` ## Additional Resources: Jezebel ### Cross-Referenced Scripture - **Marriage to Ahab:** Jezebel's introduction and marriage to King Ahab, leading to the introduction of Baal worship in Israel ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16 Verse 31|1 Kings 16:31]]). - **Confrontation with Elijah:** Her opposition to Elijah and involvement in the persecution of prophets ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 19|1 Kings Chapter 19]]). - **Naboth's Vineyard:** Jezebel's role in orchestrating the death of Naboth to seize his vineyard for Ahab ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]]). - **Prophecy of Her Death:** Elijah's prophecy concerning Jezebel's demise ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21 Verse 23|1 Kings 21:23]]). - **Death of Jezebel:** The fulfillment of prophecy and her demise at the hands of Jehu ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). - **Symbol of Wickedness:** Jezebel is later referenced in the New Testament as a symbol of immorality and idolatry ([[Revelation/Revelation Chapter 2 Verse 20|Revelation 2:20]]). ### Genealogical References - **Daughter of Ethbaal:** Jezebel is identified as the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, which aligns her with the Phoenicians ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16 Verse 31|1 Kings 16:31]]). - **Mother of Athaliah:** Jezebel is the mother of Athaliah, who becomes queen of Judah ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 8 Verse 18|2 Kings 8:18]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]]). ### Maps and Geographic References - **Sidon:** Mapping Sidon, her homeland, provides context for her background and influence ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 16 Verse 31|1 Kings 16:31]]). - **Jezreel:** The site of her death and the fulfillment of prophecy ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]]). ### Recommended Bible Study Passages - **Influence and Idolatry:** [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 18|1 Kings Chapter 18]], which details her influence on Ahab and the introduction of Baal worship. - **Divine Justice:** [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 21|1 Kings Chapter 21]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 9|2 Kings Chapter 9]] regarding her actions against Naboth and the resulting divine retribution. - **New Testament Warning:** [[Revelation/Revelation Chapter 2 Verse 20|Revelation 2:20]] for understanding her symbolic representation in the New Testament. ### Tags - `#additional-resources` - `#cross-references` - `#genealogy` - `#maps` - `#idolatry` - `#prophecy` - `#justice`