In the Bible, there are people who are more than just individuals but rather those who embody ideologies, actions, and consequences. One such figure is Jezebel. Known for her assertive stance and religious affiliations, Jezebel’s narrative provides insights into ancient beliefs and societal dynamics.
The Bible offers moral lessons embedded in complex biblical stories. And understanding Jezebel’s role is an important part of internalizing these lessons.
And so, this article offers you a concise overview of Jezebel’s character and actions, shedding light on her impact within the biblical context.
Who was Jezebel in the Bible?
Jezebel was a significant figure in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. She was the wife of King Ahab of Israel, who reigned in the 9th century BCE. Jezebel was known for her idolatrous practices and her efforts to introduce the worship of Baal, a Canaanite deity, into Israel. She famously clashed with the prophet Elijah over this issue.
Jezebel’s story is primarily recounted in the Books of 1 and 2 Kings. She is portrayed as a powerful and manipulative queen who sought to exert influence over the religious and political affairs of the kingdom. Her actions, particularly her persecution of the prophets of the Lord, led to divine judgment upon her and her husband’s dynasty.
According to the biblical narrative, she met a gruesome end, thrown out of a window by her own eunuchs at the command of Jehu, who later became king of Israel. Throughout history, the name “Jezebel” has become synonymous with a wicked or manipulative woman, often used metaphorically to describe someone who seduces others into sin or who exercises undue control over others.
What Did Jezebel Do in the Bible?
#1. Promotion of Baal Worship
Jezebel’s foremost action in the Bible was her zealous promotion of Baal worship. She erected altars and temples dedicated to Baal, encouraging Israelites to abandon their exclusive devotion to Yahweh.
This is evidenced in 1 Kings 16:31-32, where it states, “And as if it had been a light thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, he took for his wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and went and served Baal and worshiped him. He erected an altar for Baal in the house of Baal, which he built in Samaria.”
#2. Persecution of Yahweh’s Prophets
Jezebel’s commitment to Baal led to the persecution of Yahweh’s prophets. In 1 Kings 18:4, it is recounted, “And when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the Lord, Obadiah took a hundred prophets and hid them by fifties in a cave and fed them with bread and water.” She sought to eliminate any opposition to her religious agenda, demonstrating her ruthless determination.
#3. Conflict with Elijah
Jezebel’s clash with the prophet Elijah is one of the most renowned episodes in her narrative. In 1 Kings 19:1-2, it is recorded, “Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword.
Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, ‘So may the gods do to me and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow.'” This confrontation highlights Jezebel’s defiance and her relentless pursuit of power.
#4. Influence over King Ahab
Jezebel exercised significant influence over her husband, King Ahab. She manipulated him into following her religious convictions, as depicted in 1 Kings 21:25, which states, “There was none who sold himself to do what was evil in the sight of the Lord like Ahab, whom Jezebel his wife incited.”
#5. Manipulation and Deception
Jezebel’s cunning and manipulative nature are evident throughout the biblical narrative. In 1 Kings 21:7-15, she orchestrates the false accusation and subsequent execution of Naboth in order to seize his vineyard for Ahab. This illustrates her willingness to employ deceit and coercion to achieve her goals.
Closing Thoughts
Jezebel’s story serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of religious zealotry and the abuse of power. Her relentless pursuit of her own agenda, at the expense of others, highlights the potential for corruption when faith becomes intertwined with politics.
By understanding Jezebel’s actions and their consequences, readers glean valuable insights into the complexities of human nature and the enduring relevance of biblical narratives in contemporary society.