Elisha sends a prophet's son to Ramoth-gilead to anoint Jehu son of Jehoshaphat son of Nimshi king over Israel, with instructions to destroy Ahab's house as He destroyed Jeroboam's and Baasha's—and Jezebel's flesh will be eaten by dogs in Jezreel's plot. The commanders learn Jehu is anointed; they blow the trumpet and shout 'Jehu is king!' Jehu drives furiously to Jezreel where Joram and Ahaziah of Judah come out to meet him in Naboth's field. Jehu reveals God's vengeance; Joram flees crying 'Treachery!' but Jehu shoots him through the heart and commands his body thrown into Naboth's plot. Ahaziah flees but is mortally wounded and dies at Megiddo. Jezebel adorns herself, looks from a window, and mocks Jehu as 'Zimri, murderer of your master.' Jehu commands, 'Throw her down!' Eunuchs throw her; horses trample her. After dining, Jehu orders her burial as a king's daughter, but dogs have eaten all but skull, feet, and palms—fulfilling Elijah's prophecy.
Read 2 Kings Chapter 9 Summary
Characters in This Chapter
Elijah's successor who performed many miracles and ministered to Israel's kings
Faithful king of Judah who trusted God against Assyria and was healed from illness
Reforming king who rediscovered the Law and led Judah in renewal
Syrian commander healed of leprosy by Elisha, demonstrating God's grace to Gentiles
Wicked king of Judah who led the nation into deep idolatry
Righteous King of Judah
King of Israel, Husband of Jezebel
Wicked Queen of Israel
Son of Jacob, Ancestor of David and Christ
King of Israel
Prophet of Fire
Places in This Chapter
Jezreel was both a city and a fertile valley (also called the Valley of Megiddo or Armageddon). King Ahab had a palace here where Jezebel orchestrated Naboth's murder for his vineyard. Jehu killed Jezebel here, fulfilling Elijah's prophecy. The valley has been a battlefield throughout history and is associated with end-times prophecy.
Position in Book
Jehu's revolt, various kings, increasing wickedness in Israel, some good kings in Judah.